In the Arabic Quran, there are typically two words for the word “test.” The first is the word “l-balā” ( الْبَلَاء ), and the other is “l-fit’na” ( الْفِتْنَة ). The root for balā ( ب ل و ) occurs 38 times in the Quran. While the root for fit’na ( ف ت ن ) occurs 60 times in the Quran.
balā
Generally, when the word “balā” is used in reference to a test, it is meant to strengthen the faith of believers and increase their reliance on God. This is a test that every human will have to go through and can take many forms, including physical hardship, financial hardship, or the loss of a loved one, but it is always seen as a means of drawing believers closer to God and increasing their spiritual strength. Or put another way, balā is a test meant to refine and purify the soul, strengthen the faith of believers, and increase their reliance on God.
[2:155] We will surely test you through some fear, hunger, and loss of money, lives, and crops. Give good news to the steadfast.
وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُمْ بِشَيْءٍ مِنَ الْخَوْفِ وَالْجُوعِ وَنَقْصٍ مِنَ الْأَمْوَالِ وَالْأَنْفُسِ وَالثَّمَرَاتِ وَبَشِّرِ الصَّابِرِينَ
[3:186] You will certainly be tested, through your money and your lives, and you will hear from those who received the scripture, and from the idol worshipers, a lot of insults. If you steadfastly persevere and lead a righteous life, this will prove the strength of your faith.
لَتُبْلَوُنَّ فِي أَمْوَالِكُمْ وَأَنْفُسِكُمْ وَلَتَسْمَعُنَّ مِنَ الَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْكِتَابَ مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ وَمِنَ الَّذِينَ أَشْرَكُوا أَذًى كَثِيرًا وَإِنْ تَصْبِرُوا وَتَتَّقُوا فَإِنَّ ذَٰلِكَ مِنْ عَزْمِ الْأُمُورِ
[7:168] We scattered them among many communities throughout the land. Some of them were righteous, and some were less than righteous. We tested them with prosperity and hardship, that they may return.
وَقَطَّعْنَاهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ أُمَمًا مِنْهُمُ الصَّالِحُونَ وَمِنْهُمْ دُونَ ذَٰلِكَ وَبَلَوْنَاهُمْ بِالْحَسَنَاتِ وَالسَّيِّئَاتِ لَعَلَّهُمْ يَرْجِعُونَ
[8:17] It was not you who killed them; GOD is the One who killed them. It was not you who threw when you threw; GOD is the One who threw. But He thus tests the believers with a good test (as a chance to earn a lot of credit). GOD is Hearer, Omniscient.
فَلَمْ تَقْتُلُوهُمْ وَلَٰكِنَّ اللَّهَ قَتَلَهُمْ وَمَا رَمَيْتَ إِذْ رَمَيْتَ وَلَٰكِنَّ اللَّهَ رَمَىٰ وَلِيُبْلِيَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ مِنْهُ بَلَاءً حَسَنًا إِنَّ اللَّهَ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ
[3:152] GOD has fulfilled His promise to you, and you defeated them by His leave. But then you wavered, disputed among yourselves, and disobeyed after He had shown you (the victory) you had longed for. But then, some of you became distracted by the spoils of this world, while others were rightly concerned with the Hereafter. He then diverted you from them to test you. He has pardoned you. GOD showers the believers with His grace.
وَلَقَدْ صَدَقَكُمُ اللَّهُ وَعْدَهُ إِذْ تَحُسُّونَهُمْ بِإِذْنِهِ حَتَّىٰ إِذَا فَشِلْتُمْ وَتَنَازَعْتُمْ فِي الْأَمْرِ وَعَصَيْتُمْ مِنْ بَعْدِ مَا أَرَاكُمْ مَا تُحِبُّونَ مِنْكُمْ مَنْ يُرِيدُ الدُّنْيَا وَمِنْكُمْ مَنْ يُرِيدُ الْآخِرَةَ ثُمَّ صَرَفَكُمْ عَنْهُمْ لِيَبْتَلِيَكُمْ وَلَقَدْ عَفَا عَنْكُمْ وَاللَّهُ ذُو فَضْلٍ عَلَى الْمُؤْمِنِينَ
[3:154] After the setback, He sent down upon you peaceful slumber that pacified some of you. Others among you were selfishly concerned about themselves. They harbored thoughts about GOD that were not right— the same thoughts they had harbored during the days of ignorance. Thus, they said, “Is anything up to us?” Say, “Everything is up to GOD.” They concealed inside themselves what they did not reveal to you. They said, “If it was up to us, none of us would have been killed in this battle.” Say, “Had you stayed in your homes, those destined to be killed would have crawled into their death beds.” GOD thus puts you to the test to bring out your true convictions, and to test what is in your hearts. GOD is fully aware of the innermost thoughts.
ثُمَّ أَنْزَلَ عَلَيْكُمْ مِنْ بَعْدِ الْغَمِّ أَمَنَةً نُعَاسًا يَغْشَىٰ طَائِفَةً مِنْكُمْ وَطَائِفَةٌ قَدْ أَهَمَّتْهُمْ أَنْفُسُهُمْ يَظُنُّونَ بِاللَّهِ غَيْرَ الْحَقِّ ظَنَّ الْجَاهِلِيَّةِ يَقُولُونَ هَلْ لَنَا مِنَ الْأَمْرِ مِنْ شَيْءٍ قُلْ إِنَّ الْأَمْرَ كُلَّهُ لِلَّهِ يُخْفُونَ فِي أَنْفُسِهِمْ مَا لَا يُبْدُونَ لَكَ يَقُولُونَ لَوْ كَانَ لَنَا مِنَ الْأَمْرِ شَيْءٌ مَا قُتِلْنَا هَاهُنَا قُلْ لَوْ كُنْتُمْ فِي بُيُوتِكُمْ لَبَرَزَ الَّذِينَ كُتِبَ عَلَيْهِمُ الْقَتْلُ إِلَىٰ مَضَاجِعِهِمْ وَلِيَبْتَلِيَ اللَّهُ مَا فِي صُدُورِكُمْ وَلِيُمَحِّصَ مَا فِي قُلُوبِكُمْ وَاللَّهُ عَلِيمٌ بِذَاتِ الصُّدُورِ
[2:249] When Saul took command of the troops, he said, “GOD is putting you to the test by means of a stream. Anyone who drinks from it does not belong with me—only those who do not taste it belong with me—unless it is just a single sip.” They drank from it, except a few of them. When he crossed it with those who believed, they said, “Now we lack the strength to face Goliath and his troops.” Those who were conscious of meeting GOD said, “Many a small army defeated a large army by GOD’s leave. GOD is with those who steadfastly persevere.”
فَلَمَّا فَصَلَ طَالُوتُ بِالْجُنُودِ قَالَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ مُبْتَلِيكُمْ بِنَهَرٍ فَمَنْ شَرِبَ مِنْهُ فَلَيْسَ مِنِّي وَمَنْ لَمْ يَطْعَمْهُ فَإِنَّهُ مِنِّي إِلَّا مَنِ اغْتَرَفَ غُرْفَةً بِيَدِهِ فَشَرِبُوا مِنْهُ إِلَّا قَلِيلًا مِنْهُمْ فَلَمَّا جَاوَزَهُ هُوَ وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مَعَهُ قَالُوا لَا طَاقَةَ لَنَا الْيَوْمَ بِجَالُوتَ وَجُنُودِهِ قَالَ الَّذِينَ يَظُنُّونَ أَنَّهُمْ مُلَاقُو اللَّهِ كَمْ مِنْ فِئَةٍ قَلِيلَةٍ غَلَبَتْ فِئَةً كَثِيرَةً بِإِذْنِ اللَّهِ وَاللَّهُ مَعَ الصَّابِرِينَ
[6:165] He is the One who made you inheritors of the earth, and He raised some of you above others in rank, in order to test you in accordance with what He has given you. Surely, your Lord is efficient in enforcing retribution, and He is Forgiver, Most Merciful.
وَهُوَ الَّذِي جَعَلَكُمْ خَلَائِفَ الْأَرْضِ وَرَفَعَ بَعْضَكُمْ فَوْقَ بَعْضٍ دَرَجَاتٍ لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ فِي مَا آتَاكُمْ إِنَّ رَبَّكَ سَرِيعُ الْعِقَابِ وَإِنَّهُ لَغَفُورٌ رَحِيمٌ
[27:40] The one who possessed knowledge from the book said, “I can bring it to you in the blink of your eye.” When he saw it settled in front of him, he said, “This is a blessing from my Lord, whereby He tests me, to show whether I am appreciative or unappreciative. Whoever is appreciative is appreciative for his own good, and if one turns unappreciative, then my Lord is in no need for him, Most Honorable.”
قَالَ الَّذِي عِنْدَهُ عِلْمٌ مِنَ الْكِتَابِ أَنَا آتِيكَ بِهِ قَبْلَ أَنْ يَرْتَدَّ إِلَيْكَ طَرْفُكَ فَلَمَّا رَآهُ مُسْتَقِرًّا عِنْدَهُ قَالَ هَٰذَا مِنْ فَضْلِ رَبِّي لِيَبْلُوَنِي أَأَشْكُرُ أَمْ أَكْفُرُ وَمَنْ شَكَرَ فَإِنَّمَا يَشْكُرُ لِنَفْسِهِ وَمَنْ كَفَرَ فَإِنَّ رَبِّي غَنِيٌّ كَرِيمٌ
[68:17] We have tested them like we tested the owners of the garden who swore that they will harvest it in the morning.
إِنَّا بَلَوْنَاهُمْ كَمَا بَلَوْنَا أَصْحَابَ الْجَنَّةِ إِذْ أَقْسَمُوا لَيَصْرِمُنَّهَا مُصْبِحِينَ
| Transliteration | Arabic | Translation | Verse | Root |
| balāon | بَلَاءٌ | a test | 2:49:15 | ب ل و |
| ib’talā | ابْتَلَىٰ | He tested | 2:124:2 | ب ل و |
| walanabluwannakum | وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُمْ | And surely we will test you [all] | 2:155:1 | ب ل و |
| mub’talīkum | مُبْتَلِيكُمْ | One who is going to test you [all] | 2:249:8 | ب ل و |
| liyabtaliyakum | لِيَبْتَلِيَكُمْ | so that He may test you [all]. | 3:152:32 | ب ل و |
| waliyabtaliya | وَلِيَبْتَلِيَ | And that [He] may test | 3:154:63 | ب ل و |
| latub’lawunna | لَتُبْلَوُنَّ | You [all] will certainly be tested | 3:186:1 | ب ل و |
| wa-ib’talū | وَابْتَلُوا | And test [you all] | 4:6:1 | ب ل و |
| liyabluwakum | لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ | so that He may test you [all] | 5:48:37 | ب ل و |
| layabluwannakumu | لَيَبْلُوَنَّكُمُ | Surely [He] will test you [all] | 5:94:4 | ب ل و |
| liyabluwakum | لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ | so that He may test you [all]. | 6:165:11 | ب ل و |
| balāon | بَلَاءٌ | a test / trial | 7:141:15 | ب ل و |
| nablūhum | نَبْلُوهُمْ | we test them | 7:163:24 | ب ل و |
| wabalawnāhum | وَبَلَوْنَاهُمْ | And we tested them | 7:168:10 | ب ل و |
| waliyub’liya | وَلِيُبْلِيَ | and that He may test | 8:17:13 | ب ل و |
| balāan | بَلَاءً | (with) a test | 8:17:16 | ب ل و |
| tablū | تَبْلُو | [it] will be put to trial / tested | 10:30:2 | ب ل و |
| liyabluwakum | لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ | that He may test [you all] | 11:7:13 | ب ل و |
| balāon | بَلَاءٌ | a trial / test | 14:6:23 | ب ل و |
| yablūkumu | يَبْلُوكُمُ | [He] tests you [all] | 16:92:22 | ب ل و |
| linabluwahum | لِنَبْلُوَهُمْ | that we may test them, | 18:7:8 | ب ل و |
| yablā | يَبْلَىٰ | it deteriorate / decay / become old?” | 20:120:13 | ب ل و |
| wanablūkum | وَنَبْلُوكُمْ | And we test you [all] | 21:35:5 | ب ل و |
| lamub’talīna | لَمُبْتَلِينَ | surely ones who test. | 23:30:7 | ب ل و |
| liyabluwanī | لِيَبْلُوَنِي | that He may test me (to see) | 27:40:24 | ب ل و |
| ub’tuliya | ابْتُلِيَ | [he] were tested | 33:11:2 | ب ل و |
| l-balāu | الْبَلَاءُ | the test | 37:106:4 | ب ل و |
| balāon | بَلَاءٌ | a test | 44:33:6 | ب ل و |
| liyabluwā | لِيَبْلُوَ | that He may test | 47:4:28 | ب ل و |
| walanabluwannakum | وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُمْ | And surely we will test you [all] | 47:31:1 | ب ل و |
| wanabluwā | وَنَبْلُوَ | and we will test | 47:31:7 | ب ل و |
| liyabluwakum | لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ | that He may test you [all], | 67:2:5 | ب ل و |
| balawnāhum | بَلَوْنَاهُمْ | [we] tested them | 68:17:2 | ب ل و |
| balawnā | بَلَوْنَا | we tested | 68:17:4 | ب ل و |
| nabtalīhi | نَبْتَلِيهِ | (that) we test him; | 76:2:7 | ب ل و |
| tub’lā | تُبْلَى | [it] will be exposed | 86:9:2 | ب ل و |
| ib’talāhu | ابْتَلَاهُ | [He] tested him | 89:15:5 | ب ل و |
| ib’talāhu | ابْتَلَاهُ | He tested him | 89:16:4 | ب ل و |
fit’na
On the other hand, “fit’na” is a term that refers to a trial that is designed to separate truth from falsehood or good from evil. This type of test is often associated with temptation, deception, and confusion. Its purpose is to determine if someone is a true believer or merely just providing lip service. The idea behind fitna is that it serves as a way of sorting the wheat from the chaff, so to speak, and of strengthening the faith of believers by enabling them to overcome deception and temptation while at the same time weeding out individuals who do not really believe.
[29:2] Do the people think that they will be left to say, “We believe,” without being put to the test (fit’na)?
[29:3] We have tested (fit’na) those before them, for GOD must distinguish those who are truthful, and He must expose the liars.
أَحَسِبَ النَّاسُ أَنْ يُتْرَكُوا أَنْ يَقُولُوا آمَنَّا وَهُمْ لَا يُفْتَنُونَ
وَلَقَدْ فَتَنَّا الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ فَلَيَعْلَمَنَّ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ صَدَقُوا وَلَيَعْلَمَنَّ الْكَاذِبِينَ
[22:53] He thus sets up the devil’s scheme as a test for those who harbor doubts in their hearts, and those whose hearts are hardened. The wicked must remain with the opposition.
لِيَجْعَلَ مَا يُلْقِي الشَّيْطَانُ فِتْنَةً لِلَّذِينَ فِي قُلُوبِهِمْ مَرَضٌ وَالْقَاسِيَةِ قُلُوبُهُمْ وَإِنَّ الظَّالِمِينَ لَفِي شِقَاقٍ بَعِيدٍ
[7:27] O children of Adam, do not let the devil dupe you as he did when he caused the eviction of your parents from Paradise, and the removal of their garments to expose their bodies. He and his tribe see you, while you do not see them. We appoint the devils as companions of those who do not believe.
يَابَنِي آدَمَ لَا يَفْتِنَنَّكُمُ الشَّيْطَانُ كَمَا أَخْرَجَ أَبَوَيْكُمْ مِنَ الْجَنَّةِ يَنْزِعُ عَنْهُمَا لِبَاسَهُمَا لِيُرِيَهُمَا سَوْآتِهِمَا إِنَّهُ يَرَاكُمْ هُوَ وَقَبِيلُهُ مِنْ حَيْثُ لَا تَرَوْنَهُمْ إِنَّا جَعَلْنَا الشَّيَاطِينَ أَوْلِيَاءَ لِلَّذِينَ لَا يُؤْمِنُونَ
[20:85] He said, “We have put your people to the test after you left, but the Samarian misled them.”
قَالَ فَإِنَّا قَدْ فَتَنَّا قَوْمَكَ مِنْ بَعْدِكَ وَأَضَلَّهُمُ السَّامِرِيُّ
[39:49] If the human is touched by adversity, he implores us, but as soon as we bestow a blessing upon him, he says, “I attained this because of my cleverness!” Indeed, this is only a test, but most of them do not know.
فَإِذَا مَسَّ الْإِنْسَانَ ضُرٌّ دَعَانَا ثُمَّ إِذَا خَوَّلْنَاهُ نِعْمَةً مِنَّا قَالَ إِنَّمَا أُوتِيتُهُ عَلَىٰ عِلْمٍ بَلْ هِيَ فِتْنَةٌ وَلَٰكِنَّ أَكْثَرَهُمْ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ
[4:91] You will find others who wish to make peace with you and also with their people. (However) whenever they were returned to the fit’na they were reverted therein. So unless these people leave you alone, offer you peace, and stop fighting you, you may fight them when you encounter them. Against these, we give you a clear authorization.
سَتَجِدُونَ آخَرِينَ يُرِيدُونَ أَنْ يَأْمَنُوكُمْ وَيَأْمَنُوا قَوْمَهُمْ كُلَّ مَا رُدُّوا إِلَى الْفِتْنَةِ أُرْكِسُوا فِيهَا فَإِنْ لَمْ يَعْتَزِلُوكُمْ وَيُلْقُوا إِلَيْكُمُ السَّلَمَ وَيَكُفُّوا أَيْدِيَهُمْ فَخُذُوهُمْ وَاقْتُلُوهُمْ حَيْثُ ثَقِفْتُمُوهُمْ وَأُولَٰئِكُمْ جَعَلْنَا لَكُمْ عَلَيْهِمْ سُلْطَانًا مُبِينًا
[3:7] He sent down to you this scripture, containing straightforward verses—which constitute the essence of the scripture—as well as multiple-meaning or allegorical verses. Those who harbor doubts in their hearts will pursue the multiple-meaning verses to seek fitna (division), and to extricate a certain meaning. None knows the true meaning thereof except GOD and those well founded in knowledge. They say, “We believe in this—all of it comes from our Lord.” Only those who possess intelligence will take heed.
هُوَ الَّذِي أَنْزَلَ عَلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ مِنْهُ آيَاتٌ مُحْكَمَاتٌ هُنَّ أُمُّ الْكِتَابِ وَأُخَرُ مُتَشَابِهَاتٌ فَأَمَّا الَّذِينَ فِي قُلُوبِهِمْ زَيْغٌ فَيَتَّبِعُونَ مَا تَشَابَهَ مِنْهُ ابْتِغَاءَ الْفِتْنَةِ وَابْتِغَاءَ تَأْوِيلِهِ وَمَا يَعْلَمُ تَأْوِيلَهُ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَالرَّاسِخُونَ فِي الْعِلْمِ يَقُولُونَ آمَنَّا بِهِ كُلٌّ مِنْ عِنْدِ رَبِّنَا وَمَا يَذَّكَّرُ إِلَّا أُولُو الْأَلْبَابِ
[64:15] Your money and children are a test (fit’na), and GOD possesses a great recompense.
إِنَّمَا أَمْوَالُكُمْ وَأَوْلَادُكُمْ فِتْنَةٌ وَاللَّهُ عِنْدَهُ أَجْرٌ عَظِيمٌ
[8:28] You should know that your money and your children are a test (fit’na), and that GOD possesses a great recompense.
وَاعْلَمُوا أَنَّمَا أَمْوَالُكُمْ وَأَوْلَادُكُمْ فِتْنَةٌ وَأَنَّ اللَّهَ عِنْدَهُ أَجْرٌ عَظِيمٌ
[8:73] Those who disbelieved are allies of one another. Unless you keep these commandments, there will be fit’na (chaos) on earth, and terrible corruption.
وَالَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا بَعْضُهُمْ أَوْلِيَاءُ بَعْضٍ إِلَّا تَفْعَلُوهُ تَكُنْ فِتْنَةٌ فِي الْأَرْضِ وَفَسَادٌ كَبِيرٌ
| Transliteration | Arabic | Translation | Verse | Root |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | a trial / test, | 2:102:32 | ف ت ن |
| wal-fit’natu | وَالْفِتْنَةُ | and [the] persecution / oppression | 2:191:8 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | persecution / oppression, | 2:193:5 | ف ت ن |
| wal-fit’natu | وَالْفِتْنَةُ | And [the] oppression (is) | 2:217:25 | ف ت ن |
| l-fit’nati | الْفِتْنَةِ | [the] dissension / division / disputes | 3:7:24 | ف ت ن |
| l-fit’nati | الْفِتْنَةِ | the trial / temptation, | 4:91:12 | ف ت ن |
| yaftinakumu | يَفْتِنَكُمُ | [they] (may) harm you [all] | 4:101:15 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natahu | فِتْنَتَهُ | his diversion / temptation / punishment | 5:41:44 | ف ت ن |
| yaftinūka | يَفْتِنُوكَ | they tempt you away / divert you | 5:49:12 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | a trial / punishment, | 5:71:4 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natuhum | فِتْنَتُهُمْ | a dissension / rebuttal from them | 6:23:4 | ف ت ن |
| fatannā | فَتَنَّا | we tested | 6:53:2 | ف ت ن |
| yaftinannakumu | يَفْتِنَنَّكُمُ | [he] tempt / test / dupe you [all] | 7:27:4 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natuka | فِتْنَتُكَ | Your trial, | 7:155:26 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | a trial / retribution | 8:25:2 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | a trial / test. | 8:28:5 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | oppression | 8:39:5 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | oppression / chaos | 8:73:9 | ف ت ن |
| l-fit’nata | الْفِتْنَةَ | [the] dissension / disputes / division. | 9:47:11 | ف ت ن |
| l-fit’nata | الْفِتْنَةَ | [the] dissension / disputes / division | 9:48:3 | ف ت ن |
| taftinnī | تَفْتِنِّي | you put me to trial / impose hardship on me.” | 9:49:7 | ف ت ن |
| l-fit’nati | الْفِتْنَةِ | the hardship | 9:49:10 | ف ت ن |
| yuf’tanūna | يُفْتَنُونَ | [they] are tested / put on trial | 9:126:4 | ف ت ن |
| yaftinahum | يَفْتِنَهُمْ | he persecute them. | 10:83:14 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | a trial / test / persecution (part of the test) | 10:85:8 | ف ت ن |
| futinū | فُتِنُوا | they were put on trial / persecuted | 16:110:9 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | a test | 17:60:14 | ف ت ن |
| layaftinūnaka | لَيَفْتِنُونَكَ | surely [they] tempt you away | 17:73:3 | ف ت ن |
| wafatannāka | وَفَتَنَّاكَ | and we tested you | 20:40:23 | ف ت ن |
| futūnan | فُتُونًا | (with) a trial. | 20:40:24 | ف ت ن |
| fatannā | فَتَنَّا | we tried / tested | 20:85:4 | ف ت ن |
| futintum | فُتِنْتُمْ | you [all] were being tested | 20:90:9 | ف ت ن |
| linaftinahum | لِنَفْتِنَهُمْ | that we may test them | 20:131:13 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | (as) a test; | 21:35:8 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | a trial / test | 21:111:4 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | a trial / adversity | 22:11:15 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | a trial / test | 22:53:5 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | a trial / disaster | 24:63:23 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | a trial / test, | 25:20:16 | ف ت ن |
| tuf’tanūna | تُفْتَنُونَ | [you all] being tested.” | 27:47:13 | ف ت ن |
| yuf’tanūna | يُفْتَنُونَ | [they] will be tested? | 29:2:10 | ف ت ن |
| fatannā | فَتَنَّا | we tested | 29:3:2 | ف ت ن |
| fit’nata | فِتْنَةَ | (the) trial / persecution | 29:10:12 | ف ت ن |
| l-fit’nata | الْفِتْنَةَ | the division / temptation / treachery, | 33:14:8 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | a trial / punishment | 37:63:3 | ف ت ن |
| bifātinīna | بِفَاتِنِينَ | ever ones who (can) harm / impose. | 37:162:4 | ف ت ن |
| fatannāhu | فَتَنَّاهُ | we tested him, | 38:24:27 | ف ت ن |
| fatannā | فَتَنَّا | we tested | 38:34:2 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | a trial / test, | 39:49:18 | ف ت ن |
| fatannā | فَتَنَّا | we tested | 44:17:2 | ف ت ن |
| yuf’tanūna | يُفْتَنُونَ | [they] will be tested / put on trial, | 51:13:5 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natakum | فِتْنَتَكُمْ | your trial / retribution. | 51:14:2 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | (as) a test | 54:27:4 | ف ت ن |
| fatantum | فَتَنْتُمْ | [you all] were led to temptation | 57:14:8 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | a trial / oppressed | 60:5:4 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natun | فِتْنَةٌ | a trial / test, | 64:15:4 | ف ت ن |
| l-maftūnu | الْمَفْتُونُ | the one afflicted. | 68:6:2 | ف ت ن |
| linaftinahum | لِنَفْتِنَهُمْ | That we may test them | 72:17:1 | ف ت ن |
| fit’natan | فِتْنَةً | (as) a test / adversity | 74:31:11 | ف ت ن |
| fatanū | فَتَنُوا | they persecuted | 85:10:3 | ف ت ن |
Overlap between balā and fit’na
We see from the verses that both fit’na and balā are functions of this world.
[21:111] “For all that I know, this world is a test (fit’na) for you, and a temporary enjoyment.”
وَإِنْ أَدْرِي لَعَلَّهُ فِتْنَةٌ لَكُمْ وَمَتَاعٌ إِلَىٰ حِينٍ
[67:2] The One who created death and life that He may test (balā) which of you are best in deeds. He is the Almighty, the Forgiving.
الَّذِي خَلَقَ الْمَوْتَ وَالْحَيَاةَ لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ أَيُّكُمْ أَحْسَنُ عَمَلًا وَهُوَ الْعَزِيزُ الْغَفُورُ
[76:2] We created the human from a liquid mixture, from two parents, in order to test (balā) him. Thus, we made him a hearer and a seer.
إِنَّا خَلَقْنَا الْإِنْسَانَ مِنْ نُطْفَةٍ أَمْشَاجٍ نَبْتَلِيهِ فَجَعَلْنَاهُ سَمِيعًا بَصِيرًا
Both are designed to distinguish.
[11:7] He is the One who created the heavens and the earth in six days—and His (earthly) domain was completely covered with water—in order to test (balā) you, to distinguish those among you who work righteousness. Yet, when you say, “You will be resurrected after death,” those who disbelieve would say, “This is clearly witchcraft.”
وَهُوَ الَّذِي خَلَقَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ فِي سِتَّةِ أَيَّامٍ وَكَانَ عَرْشُهُ عَلَى الْمَاءِ لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ أَيُّكُمْ أَحْسَنُ عَمَلًا وَلَئِنْ قُلْتَ إِنَّكُمْ مَبْعُوثُونَ مِنْ بَعْدِ الْمَوْتِ لَيَقُولَنَّ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا إِنْ هَٰذَا إِلَّا سِحْرٌ مُبِينٌ
[18:7] We have adorned everything on earth, in order to test (balā) them, and thus distinguish those among them who work righteousness.
إِنَّا جَعَلْنَا مَا عَلَى الْأَرْضِ زِينَةً لَهَا لِنَبْلُوَهُمْ أَيُّهُمْ أَحْسَنُ عَمَلًا
[47:31] We will certainly put you to the test (balā), in order to distinguish those among you who strive, and steadfastly persevere. We must test/make evident (balā) your true qualities.
(٣١) وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُمْ حَتَّىٰ نَعْلَمَ الْمُجَاهِدِينَ مِنْكُمْ وَالصَّابِرِينَ وَنَبْلُوَ أَخْبَارَكُمْ
[20:131] And do not covet what we bestowed upon any other people. Such are temporary ornaments of this life, whereby we put them to the test (fit’na). What your Lord provides for you is far better, and everlasting.
وَلَا تَمُدَّنَّ عَيْنَيْكَ إِلَىٰ مَا مَتَّعْنَا بِهِ أَزْوَاجًا مِنْهُمْ زَهْرَةَ الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا لِنَفْتِنَهُمْ فِيهِ وَرِزْقُ رَبِّكَ خَيْرٌ وَأَبْقَىٰ
People can be used to carry out both balā and fit’na.
[47:4] If you encounter (in war) those who disbelieve, you may strike the necks. If you take them as captives you may set them free or ransom them, until the war ends. Had GOD willed, He could have granted you victory, without war. But He thus tests (balā) you by one another. As for those who get killed in the cause of GOD, He will never put their sacrifice to waste.
فَإِذَا لَقِيتُمُ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا فَضَرْبَ الرِّقَابِ حَتَّىٰ إِذَا أَثْخَنْتُمُوهُمْ فَشُدُّوا الْوَثَاقَ فَإِمَّا مَنًّا بَعْدُ وَإِمَّا فِدَاءً حَتَّىٰ تَضَعَ الْحَرْبُ أَوْزَارَهَا ذَٰلِكَ وَلَوْ يَشَاءُ اللَّهُ لَانْتَصَرَ مِنْهُمْ وَلَٰكِنْ لِيَبْلُوَ بَعْضَكُمْ بِبَعْضٍ وَالَّذِينَ قُتِلُوا فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ فَلَنْ يُضِلَّ أَعْمَالَهُمْ
[25:20] We did not send any messengers before you who did not eat food and walk in the markets. We thus test (fit’na) you by each other; will you steadfastly persevere? Your Lord is Seer.
وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَا قَبْلَكَ مِنَ الْمُرْسَلِينَ إِلَّا إِنَّهُمْ لَيَأْكُلُونَ الطَّعَامَ وَيَمْشُونَ فِي الْأَسْوَاقِ وَجَعَلْنَا بَعْضَكُمْ لِبَعْضٍ فِتْنَةً أَتَصْبِرُونَ وَكَانَ رَبُّكَ بَصِيرًا
What is the progression between balā and fit’na
So what is the key distinction between “balā” and “fit’na“? Balā are tests we will all have to deal with. These are the tests that are part of the fabric of being human. In life, there will be ups and downs, situations that will be in our favor, and situations that will not be in our favor, as well as adornments. The purpose of the tests of balā is to bring us closer to God by showing us our shortcomings and motivating us to do better as a learning experience. The tests of balā are meant to strengthen us for when the fit’na inevitably comes. This is because fit’na is a trial designed to separate true believers from disbelievers.
[89:15] When the human being is tested (balā) by his Lord, through blessings and joy, he says, “My Lord is generous towards me.”
[89:16] But if He tests (balā) him through reduction in provisions, he says, “My Lord is humiliating me!”
[89:17] Wrong! It is you who brought it on yourselves by not regarding the orphan.
[89:18] And not advocating charity towards the poor.
[89:19] And consuming the inheritance of helpless orphans.
[89:20] And loving the money too much.
فَأَمَّا الْإِنْسَانُ إِذَا مَا ابْتَلَاهُ رَبُّهُ فَأَكْرَمَهُ وَنَعَّمَهُ فَيَقُولُ رَبِّي أَكْرَمَنِ
وَأَمَّا إِذَا مَا ابْتَلَاهُ فَقَدَرَ عَلَيْهِ رِزْقَهُ فَيَقُولُ رَبِّي أَهَانَنِ
كَلَّا بَلْ لَا تُكْرِمُونَ الْيَتِيمَ
وَلَا تَحَاضُّونَ عَلَىٰ طَعَامِ الْمِسْكِينِ
وَتَأْكُلُونَ التُّرَاثَ أَكْلًا لَمًّا
وَتُحِبُّونَ الْمَالَ حُبًّا جَمًّا
[33:11] That is when the believers were truly tested (bala); they were severely shaken up.
[33:12] The hypocrites and those with doubts in their hearts said, “What GOD and His messenger promised us was no more than an illusion!”
[33:13] A group of them said, “O people of Yathrib, you cannot attain victory; go back.” Others made up excuses to the prophet: “Our homes are vulnerable,” when they were not vulnerable. They just wanted to flee.
[33:14] Had the enemy invaded and asked the fit’na (trechery), they would have joined the enemy without hesitation.
هُنَالِكَ ابْتُلِيَ الْمُؤْمِنُونَ وَزُلْزِلُوا زِلْزَالًا شَدِيدًا
وَإِذْ يَقُولُ الْمُنَافِقُونَ وَالَّذِينَ فِي قُلُوبِهِمْ مَرَضٌ مَا وَعَدَنَا اللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُ إِلَّا غُرُورًا
وَإِذْ قَالَتْ طَائِفَةٌ مِنْهُمْ يَاأَهْلَ يَثْرِبَ لَا مُقَامَ لَكُمْ فَارْجِعُوا وَيَسْتَأْذِنُ فَرِيقٌ مِنْهُمُ النَّبِيَّ يَقُولُونَ إِنَّ بُيُوتَنَا عَوْرَةٌ وَمَا هِيَ بِعَوْرَةٍ إِنْ يُرِيدُونَ إِلَّا فِرَارًا
وَلَوْ دُخِلَتْ عَلَيْهِمْ مِنْ أَقْطَارِهَا ثُمَّ سُئِلُوا الْفِتْنَةَ لَآتَوْهَا وَمَا تَلَبَّثُوا بِهَا إِلَّا يَسِيرًا
[33:22] When the true believers saw the parties (ready to attack), they said, “This is what GOD and His messenger have promised us, and GOD and His messenger are truthful.” This (dangerous situation) only strengthened their faith and augmented their submission.
مِنَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ رِجَالٌ صَدَقُوا مَا عَاهَدُوا اللَّهَ عَلَيْهِ فَمِنْهُمْ مَنْ قَضَىٰ نَحْبَهُ وَمِنْهُمْ مَنْ يَنْتَظِرُ وَمَا بَدَّلُوا تَبْدِيلًا
[5:48] Then we revealed to you this scripture, truthfully, confirming previous scriptures, and superseding them. You shall rule among them in accordance with GOD’s revelations, and do not follow their wishes if they differ from the truth that came to you. For each of you, we have decreed laws and different rites. Had GOD willed, He could have made you one congregation. But He thus puts you to the test (bala) through the revelations He has given each of you. You shall compete in righteousness. To GOD is your final destiny—all of you—then He will inform you of everything you had disputed.
وَأَنْزَلْنَا إِلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ بِالْحَقِّ مُصَدِّقًا لِمَا بَيْنَ يَدَيْهِ مِنَ الْكِتَابِ وَمُهَيْمِنًا عَلَيْهِ فَاحْكُمْ بَيْنَهُمْ بِمَا أَنْزَلَ اللَّهُ وَلَا تَتَّبِعْ أَهْوَاءَهُمْ عَمَّا جَاءَكَ مِنَ الْحَقِّ لِكُلٍّ جَعَلْنَا مِنْكُمْ شِرْعَةً وَمِنْهَاجًا وَلَوْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ لَجَعَلَكُمْ أُمَّةً وَاحِدَةً وَلَٰكِنْ لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ فِي مَا آتَاكُمْ فَاسْتَبِقُوا الْخَيْرَاتِ إِلَى اللَّهِ مَرْجِعُكُمْ جَمِيعًا فَيُنَبِّئُكُمْ بِمَا كُنْتُمْ فِيهِ تَخْتَلِفُونَ
[5:49] You shall rule among them in accordance with GOD’s revelations to you. Do not follow their wishes, and beware lest they tempt (fit’na) you from some of GOD’s revelations to you. If they turn away, then know that GOD wills to punish them for some of their sins. Indeed, many people are wicked.
وَأَنِ احْكُمْ بَيْنَهُمْ بِمَا أَنْزَلَ اللَّهُ وَلَا تَتَّبِعْ أَهْوَاءَهُمْ وَاحْذَرْهُمْ أَنْ يَفْتِنُوكَ عَنْ بَعْضِ مَا أَنْزَلَ اللَّهُ إِلَيْكَ فَإِنْ تَوَلَّوْا فَاعْلَمْ أَنَّمَا يُرِيدُ اللَّهُ أَنْ يُصِيبَهُمْ بِبَعْضِ ذُنُوبِهِمْ وَإِنَّ كَثِيرًا مِنَ النَّاسِ لَفَاسِقُونَ
[21:35] Every soul will taste death, after we put you to the test (balā) through adversity and prosperity as a trial (fit’na), then to us you ultimately return.
كُلُّ نَفْسٍ ذَائِقَةُ الْمَوْتِ وَنَبْلُوكُمْ بِالشَّرِّ وَالْخَيْرِ فِتْنَةً وَإِلَيْنَا تُرْجَعُونَ
Appendix
Below is every verse where the roots for “l-fit’na” ( الْفِتْنَة ) and “l-balā” ( ب ل و ) are used.
| ب ل و | [2:49] Recall that we saved you from Pharaoh’s people who inflicted upon you the worst persecution, slaying your sons and sparing your daughters. That was an exacting test from your Lord. |
| ف ت ن | [2:102] They pursued what the devils taught concerning Solomon’s kingdom. Solomon, however, was not a disbeliever, but the devils were disbelievers. They taught the people sorcery, and that which was sent down through the two angels of Babel, Haroot and Maroot. These two did not divulge such knowledge without pointing out: “This is a test. You shall not abuse such knowledge.” But the people used it in such evil schemes as the breaking up of marriages. They can never harm anyone against the will of GOD. They thus learn what hurts them, not what benefits them, and they know full well that whoever practices witchcraft will have no share in the Hereafter. Miserable indeed is what they sell their souls for, if they only knew. |
| ب ل و | [2:124] Recall that Abraham was put to the test by his Lord, through certain commands, and he fulfilled them. (God) said, “I am appointing you an imam for the people.” He said, “And also my descendants?” He said, “My covenant does not include the transgressors.” |
| ب ل و | [2:155] We will surely test you through some fear, hunger, and loss of money, lives, and crops. Give good news to the steadfast. |
| ف ت ن | [2:191] You may kill those who wage war against you, and you may evict them whence they evicted you. (fitna) Oppression is worse than murder. Do not fight them at the Sacred Mosque (Masjid), unless they attack you therein. If they attack you, you may kill them. This is the just retribution for those disbelievers. |
| ف ت ن | [2:193] You may also fight them to eliminate oppression (fitna), and to worship GOD freely. If they refrain, you shall not aggress; aggression is permitted only against the aggressors. |
| ف ت ن | [2:217] They ask you about the Sacred Months and fighting therein: say, “Fighting therein is a sacrilege. However, repelling from the path of GOD and disbelieving in Him and in the sanctity of the Sacred Mosque (Masjid), and evicting its people, are greater sacrileges in the sight of GOD. Oppression is worse than murder.” They will always fight you to revert you from your religion, if they can. Those among you who revert from their religion, and die as disbelievers, have nullified their works in this life and the Hereafter. These are the dwellers of Hell, wherein they abide forever. |
| ب ل و | [2:249] When Saul took command of the troops, he said, “GOD is putting you to the test by means of a stream. Anyone who drinks from it does not belong with me—only those who do not taste it belong with me—unless it is just a single sip.” They drank from it, except a few of them. When he crossed it with those who believed, they said, “Now we lack the strength to face Goliath and his troops.” Those who were conscious of meeting GOD said, “Many a small army defeated a large army by GOD’s leave. GOD is with those who steadfastly persevere.” |
| ف ت ن | [3:7] He sent down to you this scripture, containing straightforward verses—which constitute the essence of the scripture—as well as multiple-meaning or allegorical verses. Those who harbor doubts in their hearts will pursue the multiple-meaning verses to create fitna, and to extricate a certain meaning. None knows the true meaning thereof except GOD and those well founded in knowledge. They say, “We believe in this—all of it comes from our Lord.” Only those who possess intelligence will take heed. |
| ب ل و | [3:152] GOD has fulfilled His promise to you, and you defeated them by His leave. But then you wavered, disputed among yourselves, and disobeyed after He had shown you (the victory) you had longed for. But then, some of you became distracted by the spoils of this world, while others were rightly concerned with the Hereafter. He then diverted you from them to test you. He has pardoned you. GOD showers the believers with His grace. |
| ب ل و | [3:154] After the setback, He sent down upon you peaceful slumber that pacified some of you. Others among you were selfishly concerned about themselves. They harbored thoughts about GOD that were not right— the same thoughts they had harbored during the days of ignorance. Thus, they said, “Is anything up to us?” Say, “Everything is up to GOD.” They concealed inside themselves what they did not reveal to you. They said, “If it was up to us, none of us would have been killed in this battle.” Say, “Had you stayed in your homes, those destined to be killed would have crawled into their death beds.” GOD thus puts you to the test to bring out your true convictions, and to test what is in your hearts. GOD is fully aware of the innermost thoughts. |
| ب ل و | [3:186] You will certainly be tested, through your money and your lives, and you will hear from those who received the scripture, and from the idol worshipers, a lot of insults. If you steadfastly persevere and lead a righteous life, this will prove the strength of your faith. |
| ب ل و | [4:6] You shall test the orphans when they reach puberty. As soon as you find them mature enough, give them their property. Do not consume it extravagantly in a hurry, before they grow up. The rich guardian shall not charge any wage, but the poor guardian may charge equitably. When you give them their properties, you shall have witnesses. GOD suffices as Reckoner. |
| ف ت ن | [4:91] You will find others who wish to make peace with you, and also with their people. However, as soon as war erupts, they fight against you. Unless these people leave you alone, offer you peace, and stop fighting you, you may fight them when you encounter them. Against these, we give you a clear authorization. |
| ف ت ن | [4:101] When you travel, during war, you commit no error by shortening your Contact Prayers (Salat), if you fear that the disbelievers may attack you. Surely, the disbelievers are your ardent enemies. |
| ف ت ن | [5:41] O you messenger, do not be saddened by those who hasten to disbelieve among those who say, “We believe,” with their mouths, while their hearts do not believe. Among the Jews, some listened to lies. They listened to people who never met you, and who distorted the words out of context, then said, “If you are given this, accept it, but if you are given anything different, beware.” Whomever GOD wills to divert, you can do nothing to help him against GOD. GOD does not wish to cleanse their hearts. They have incurred humiliation in this world, and in the Hereafter, they will suffer a terrible retribution. |
| ب ل و | [5:48] Then we revealed to you this scripture, truthfully, confirming previous scriptures, and superseding them. You shall rule among them in accordance with GOD’s revelations, and do not follow their wishes if they differ from the truth that came to you. For each of you, we have decreed laws and different rites. Had GOD willed, He could have made you one congregation. But He thus puts you to the test through the revelations He has given each of you. You shall compete in righteousness. To GOD is your final destiny—all of you—then He will inform you of everything you had disputed. |
| ف ت ن | [5:49] You shall rule among them in accordance with GOD’s revelations to you. Do not follow their wishes, and beware lest they divert you from some of GOD’s revelations to you. If they turn away, then know that GOD wills to punish them for some of their sins. Indeed, many people are wicked. |
| ف ت ن | [5:71] They thought that they would not be tested, so they turned blind and deaf, then GOD redeemed them, but then many of them turned blind and deaf again. GOD is Seer of everything they do. |
| ب ل و | [5:94] O you who believe, GOD will test you with some game within reach of your hands and your arrows (during pilgrimage). GOD thus distinguishes those among you who observe Him in their privacy. Those who transgress after this have incurred a painful retribution. |
| ف ت ن | [6:23] Their disastrous response (rebuttal) will be, “By GOD our Lord, we never were idol worshipers.”* |
| ف ت ن | [6:53] We thus test the people by each other, to let them say (mockingly), “Are these the people among us who are blessed by GOD?” Is GOD not aware of the appreciative ones? |
| ب ل و | [6:165] He is the One who made you inheritors of the earth, and He raised some of you above others in rank, in order to test you in accordance with what He has given you. Surely, your Lord is efficient in enforcing retribution, and He is Forgiver, Most Merciful. |
| ف ت ن | [7:27] O children of Adam, do not let the devil dupe you as he did when he caused the eviction of your parents from Paradise, and the removal of their garments to expose their bodies. He and his tribe see you, while you do not see them. We appoint the devils as companions of those who do not believe. |
| ب ل و | [7:141] Recall that we delivered you from Pharaoh’s people, who inflicted the worst persecution upon you, killing your sons and sparing your daughters. That was an exacting trial for you from your Lord. |
| ف ت ن | [7:155] Moses then selected seventy men from among his people, to come to our appointed audience. When the quake shook them, he said, “My Lord, You could have annihilated them in the past, together with me, if You so willed. Would You annihilate us for the deeds of those among us who are foolish? This must be the test that You have instituted for us. With it, You condemn whomever You will, and guide whomever You will. You are our Lord and Master, so forgive us, shower us with Your mercy; You are the best Forgiver. |
| ب ل و | [7:163] Remind them of the community by the sea, who desecrated the Sabbath. When they observed the Sabbath, the fish came to them abundantly. And when they violated the Sabbath, the fish did not come. We thus afflicted them, as a consequence of their transgression.* |
| ب ل و | [7:168] We scattered them among many communities throughout the land. Some of them were righteous, and some were less than righteous. We tested them with prosperity and hardship, that they may return. |
| ب ل و | [8:17] It was not you who killed them; GOD is the One who killed them. It was not you who threw when you threw; GOD is the One who threw. But He thus gives the believers a chance to earn a lot of credit. GOD is Hearer, Omniscient. |
| ب ل و | [8:17] It was not you who killed them; GOD is the One who killed them. It was not you who threw when you threw; GOD is the One who threw. But He thus gives the believers a chance to earn a lot of credit. GOD is Hearer, Omniscient. |
| ف ت ن | [8:25] Beware of a retribution that may not be limited to the evildoers among you.* You should know that GOD’s retribution is severe. |
| ف ت ن | [8:28] You should know that your money and your children are a test, and that GOD possesses a great recompense. |
| ف ت ن | [8:39] You shall fight them to ward off oppression, and to practice your religion devoted to GOD alone. If they refrain from aggression, then GOD is fully Seer of everything they do. |
| ف ت ن | [8:73] Those who disbelieved are allies of one another. Unless you keep these commandments, there will be oppression/chaos (fitna) on earth, and terrible corruption. |
| ف ت ن | [9:47] Had they mobilized with you, they would have created confusion, and would have caused disputes and divisions among you. Some of you were apt to listen to them. GOD is fully aware of the transgressors. |
| ف ت ن | [9:48] They sought fitna among you in the past, and confounded the matters for you. However, the truth ultimately prevails, and GOD’s plan is carried out, in spite of them. |
| ف ت ن | [9:49] Some of them would say, “Give me permission (to stay behind); do not put me on trial.” In fact, they have thus incurred fitna, Hell is surrounding the disbelievers. |
| ف ت ن | [9:49] Some of them would say, “Give me permission (to stay behind); do not put me on trial.” In fact, they have thus incurred fitna, Hell is surrounding the disbelievers. |
| ف ت ن | [9:126] Do they not see that they suffer from exacting trials every year once or twice? Yet, they consistently fail to repent, and fail to take heed? |
| ب ل و | [10:30] That is when each soul will examine everything it had done. They will be returned to GOD, their rightful Lord and Master, and the idols they had fabricated will disown them. |
| ف ت ن | [10:83] None believed with Moses except a few of his people, while fearing the tyranny of Pharaoh and his elders. Surely, Pharaoh was much too arrogant on earth, and a real tyrant. |
| ف ت ن | [10:85] They said, “We trust in GOD. Our Lord, save us from the persecution of these oppressive people. |
| ب ل و | [11:7] He is the One who created the heavens and the earth in six days—*and His (earthly) domain was completely covered with water—**in order to test you, to distinguish those among you who work righteousness. Yet, when you say, “You will be resurrected after death,” those who disbelieve would say, “This is clearly witchcraft.” |
| ب ل و | [14:6] Recall that Moses said to his people, “Remember GOD’s blessings upon you. He saved you from Pharaoh’s people who inflicted the worst persecution upon you, slaughtering your sons and sparing your daughters. That was an exacting trial from your Lord.” |
| ب ل و | [16:92] Do not be like the knitter who unravels her strong knitting into piles of flimsy yarn. This is your example if you abuse the oaths to take advantage of one another. Whether one group is larger than the other, GOD thus puts you to the test. He will surely show you on the Day of Resurrection everything you had disputed. |
| ف ت ن | [16:110] As for those who emigrate because of persecution, then continue to strive and steadfastly persevere, your Lord, because of all this, is Forgiver, Most Merciful. |
| ف ت ن | [17:60] We informed you that your Lord fully controls the people, and we rendered the vision that we showed you a test for the people, and the tree that is accursed in the Quran.* We showed them solid proofs to instill reverence in them, but this only augmented their defiance. |
| ف ت ن | [17:73] They almost tempt you from the revelations we have given you. They wanted you to fabricate something else, in order to consider you a friend. |
| ب ل و | [18:7] We have adorned everything on earth, in order to test them, and thus distinguish those among them who work righteousness. |
| ف ت ن | [20:40] “Your sister walked to them and said, ‘I can tell you about a nursing mother who can take good care of him.’ We thus returned you to your mother, that she may be happy and stop worrying. And when you killed a soul, we saved you from the grievous consequences; indeed we tested you thoroughly. You stayed years with the people of Midyan, and now you have come back in accordance with a precise plan. |
| ف ت ن | [20:40] “Your sister walked to them and said, ‘I can tell you about a nursing mother who can take good care of him.’ We thus returned you to your mother, that she may be happy and stop worrying. And when you killed a soul, we saved you from the grievous consequences; indeed we tested you thoroughly. You stayed years with the people of Midyan, and now you have come back in accordance with a precise plan. |
| ف ت ن | [20:85] He said, “We have put your people to the test after you left, but the Samarian misled them.” |
| ف ت ن | [20:90] And Aaron had told them, “O my people, this is a test for you. Your only Lord is the Most Gracious, so follow me, and obey my commands.” (Golden Calf) |
| ب ل و | [20:120] But the devil whispered to him, saying, “O Adam, let me show you the tree of eternity and unending kingship.” (a kingdom not it deteriorates, decays, becomes old) |
| ف ت ن | [20:131] And do not covet what we bestowed upon any other people. Such are temporary ornaments of this life, whereby we put them to the test. What your Lord provides for you is far better, and everlasting. |
| ب ل و | [21:35] Every soul will taste death. And we will test you with adversity and prosperity as a trial (fitna), then to us you ultimately return. |
| ف ت ن | [21:35] Every soul will taste death. And we will test (bala) you with adversity and prosperity as a trial (fitna), then to us you ultimately return. |
| ف ت ن | [21:111] “For all that I know, this world is a test for you, and a temporary enjoyment.” |
| ف ت ن | [22:11] Among the people there is the one who worships GOD conditionally. If things go his way, he is content. But if some adversity (fitna) befalls him, he makes an about-face. Thus, he loses both this life and the Hereafter. Such is the real loss. |
| ف ت ن | [22:53] He thus sets up the devil’s scheme as a test for those who harbor doubts in their hearts, and those whose hearts are hardened. The wicked must remain with the opposition. |
| ب ل و | [23:30] These should provide sufficient proofs for you. We will certainly put you to the test. [23:31] Subsequently, we established another generation after them. |
| ف ت ن | [24:63] Do not treat the messenger’s requests as you treat each others’ requests. GOD is fully aware of those among you who sneak away using flimsy excuses. Let them beware—those who disobey his orders—for a disaster (fitna) may strike them, or a severe retribution. |
| ف ت ن | [25:20] We did not send any messengers before you who did not eat food and walk in the markets. We thus test you by each other; will you steadfastly persevere? Your Lord is Seer. |
| ب ل و | [27:40] The one who possessed knowledge from the book said, “I can bring it to you in the blink of your eye.” When he saw it settled in front of him, he said, “This is a blessing from my Lord, whereby He tests me, to show whether I am appreciative or unappreciative. Whoever is appreciative is appreciative for his own good, and if one turns unappreciative, then my Lord is in no need for him, Most Honorable.” |
| ف ت ن | [27:47] They said, “We consider you a bad omen for us, you and those who joined you.” He said, “Your omen is fully controlled by GOD. Indeed, you are a people being tested.” (Saleh and the Camel) |
| ف ت ن | [29:2] Do the people think that they will be left to say, “We believe,” without being put to the test? |
| ف ت ن | [29:3] We have tested those before them, for GOD must distinguish those who are truthful, and He must expose the liars. |
| ف ت ن | [29:10] Among the people there are those who say, “We believe in GOD,” but as soon as they suffer any hardship because of GOD, they equate the people’s persecution with GOD’s retribution. But if blessings from your Lord come your way, they say, “We were with you.” Is GOD not fully aware of the people’s innermost thoughts? |
| ب ل و | [33:11] That is when the believers were truly tested; they were severely shaken up. |
| ف ت ن | [33:14] Had the enemy invaded and asked them to join (treachery), they would have joined the enemy without hesitation. |
| ف ت ن | [37:62] Is this a better destiny, or the tree of bitterness? [37:63] We have rendered it a punishment for the transgressors. |
| ب ل و | [37:106] That was an exacting test indeed. (Abrhaam’s Dream) |
| ف ت ن | [37:162] Cannot impose anything on Him. |
| ف ت ن | [38:24] He said, “He is being unfair to you by asking to combine your sheep with his. Most people who combine their properties treat each other unfairly, except those who believe and work righteousness, and these are so few.” Afterwards, David wondered if he made the right judgment. He thought that we were testing him. He then implored his Lord for forgiveness, bowed down, and repented.* (David and the sheep) |
| ف ت ن | [38:34] We thus put Solomon to the test; we blessed him with vast material wealth, but he steadfastly submitted.* (Solomon’s Kingdom) |
| ف ت ن | [39:49] If the human is touched by adversity, he implores us, but as soon as we bestow a blessing upon him, he says, “I attained this because of my cleverness!” Indeed, this is only a test (fitna), but most of them do not know. |
| ف ت ن | [44:17] We have tested before them the people of Pharaoh; an honorable messenger went to them. |
| ب ل و | [44:33] We showed them so many proofs, which constituted a great test. (Children of Israel) |
| ب ل و | [47:4] If you encounter (in war) those who disbelieve, you may strike the necks. If you take them as captives you may set them free or ransom them, until the war ends. Had GOD willed, He could have granted you victory, without war. But He thus tests you by one another. As for those who get killed in the cause of GOD, He will never put their sacrifice to waste. |
| ب ل و | [47:31] We will certainly put you to the test, in order to distinguish those among you who strive, and steadfastly persevere. We must expose your true qualities. |
| ب ل و | [47:31] We will certainly put you to the test, in order to distinguish those among you who strive, and steadfastly persevere. We must expose your true qualities. |
| ف ت ن | [51:13] The day they are presented (put on trial) over the fire. |
| ف ت ن | [51:14] Taste the retribution; this is what you used to challenge. |
| ف ت ن | [54:27] We are sending the camel as a test for them. Watch them and be patient. |
| ف ت ن | [57:14] They will call upon them, “Were we not with you?” They will answer, “Yes, but you tempted your souls, hesitated, doubted, and became misled by wishful thinking, until GOD’s judgment came. You were diverted from GOD by illusions. |
| ف ت ن | [60:5] “Our Lord, let us not be oppressed by those who disbelieved, and forgive us. You are the Almighty, Most Wise.” |
| ف ت ن | [64:15] Your money and children are a test, and GOD possesses a great recompense. |
| ب ل و | [67:2] The One who created death and life to test which of you who would do better.* He is the Almighty, the Forgiving. |
| ف ت ن | [68:3] You have attained a recompense that is well deserved. [68:4] You are blessed with a great moral character. [68:5] You will see, and they will see. [68:6] Which of you are condemned. |
| ب ل و | [68:17] We have tested them like we tested the owners of the garden who swore that they will harvest it in the morning. |
| ب ل و | [68:17] We have tested them like we tested the owners of the garden who swore that they will harvest it in the morning. |
| ف ت ن | [72:14] “‘Among us are the submitters, and among us are the compromisers.'” As for those who submitted, they are on the right path. [72:15] As for the compromisers, they will be fuel for Gehenna. [72:16] If they remain on the right path, we will bless them with abundant water. [72:17] We will surely test them all. As for him who disregards the message of his Lord, He will direct him to ever increasing retribution. |
| ف ت ن | [74:31] We appointed angels to be guardians of Hell, and we assigned their number (19) (1) to test the disbelievers, (2) to convince the Christians and Jews (that this is a divine scripture), (3) to strengthen the faith of the faithful, (4) to remove all traces of doubt from the hearts of Christians, Jews, as well as the believers, and (5) to expose those who harbor doubt in their hearts, and the disbelievers; they will say, “What did GOD mean by this allegory?” GOD thus sends astray whomever He wills, and guides whomever He wills. None knows the soldiers of your Lord except He. This is a reminder for the people. (Code 19) |
| ب ل و | [76:2] We created the human from a liquid mixture, from two parents, in order to test him. Thus, we made him a hearer and a seer. |
| ف ت ن | [85:10] Surely, those who persecute the believing men and women, then fail to repent, have incurred the retribution of Gehenna; they have incurred the retribution of burning. |
| ب ل و | [86:9] The day all secrets become exposed. |
| ب ل و | [89:15] When the human being is tested by his Lord, through blessings and joy, he says, “My Lord is generous towards me.” |
| ب ل و | [89:16] But if He tests him through reduction in provisions, he says, “My Lord is humiliating me!” |
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