Firstly, I want to thank you for opening up and sharing such a deeply personal reflection. Your honesty and vulnerability in expressing your struggles, both spiritually and emotionally, is not only brave but also deeply moving. It’s clear that this article was written from the heart, and I truly appreciate the time and effort you’ve put into conveying your thoughts so eloquently.
Your journey, especially the balance between finding solace in your relationship with Allah and the overwhelming anxiety you’re currently experiencing, is something many can relate to on different levels. It’s evident that you’re navigating a period of intense constriction, where the weight of your circumstances feels particularly heavy. Yet, within your words, there’s also a profound sense of hope and resilience—a testament to the strength that Allah grants His servants, even in the most trying of times.
Reflecting on the attributes of Al-Qabiz (The Withholder) and Al-Basit (The Expander), it’s clear that the phases of constriction and expansion are a natural part of the divine wisdom that shapes our lives. Just as Abu Bakr (RA), one of the most righteous companions of the Prophet (pbuh), felt fear and anxiety in the cave, you too are experiencing this moment of constraint. But remember, it is often in these moments that Allah is drawing us closer to Him, refining our faith, and preparing us for the expansions that are to come.
Al-Qabiz and Al-Basit: An Overview
• Al-Qabiz signifies Allah’s ability to withhold, restrict, or constrain. This can manifest in various forms, such as limiting one’s provision, physical strength, emotional well-being, or even spiritual insight.
• Al-Basit, on the other hand, represents Allah’s power to expand, provide, and open up opportunities. This expansion could be in terms of sustenance, spiritual elevation, knowledge, or inner peace.
Together, these attributes illustrate the dynamic nature of human experience—times of ease followed by times of hardship, and vice versa. This cycle is integral to spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of one’s relationship with Allah.
The Cave Incident: A Contextual Reflection
In Surah At-Tawbah (9:40), Allah describes the moment when the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr (RA) were in the cave during their migration to Medina:
“If you do not aid him, Allah has already aided him when those who disbelieved had driven him out, as one of two, when they were in the cave and he said to his companion, ‘Do not grieve; indeed, Allah is with us.’ And Allah sent down His tranquility upon him and supported him with soldiers [angels] you did not see and made the word of those who disbelieved the lowest, while the word of Allah - that is the highest. And Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise.” (9:40)
In this verse, we see the interplay of Al-Qabiz and Al-Basit in the experience of Abu Bakr (RA), who despite his immense faith and status, felt fear and anxiety.
Al-Qabiz in the Cave
• Constriction and Anxiety: Abu Bakr (RA), despite his deep trust in Allah and closeness to the Prophet (pbuh), experienced fear and anxiety in the cave. This moment of intense constraint—both physically, as they were hiding from their pursuers, and emotionally, as he feared for the Prophet’s safety—illustrates the attribute of Al-Qabiz. Allah, in His wisdom, allowed this constriction to occur, even to the best of believers.
• Purpose of Constriction: The feeling of fear and anxiety, as represented by Al-Qabiz, serves a divine purpose. It is often in these moments of constraint that a person is drawn closer to Allah, seeking His protection and guidance. The fear Abu Bakr (RA) felt did not diminish his faith; rather, it became a means through which Allah tested and ultimately strengthened it.
Al-Basit in the Cave
• Expansion and Reassurance: When the Prophet (pbuh) told Abu Bakr (RA) not to grieve and assured him of Allah’s presence, this marked the transition from the constriction of Al-Qabiz to the expansion of Al-Basit. Allah’s tranquility, sakinah, descended upon them, expanding their hearts with peace and confidence despite the perilous situation.
• Divine Comfort: The tranquility sent down by Allah was an expression of Al-Basit, where what was previously tight and fearful was replaced by ease and comfort. This expansion of the heart, even in the face of danger, underscores Allah’s ability to provide peace and reassurance when it is most needed.
Life’s Hardships as Divine Pull
• Even the Most Righteous Experience Constraints: The story of the cave shows that even the most righteous, including Prophets and their closest companions, are not exempt from life’s difficulties. Abu Bakr (RA) felt the constraints of fear and anxiety despite his piety, demonstrating that these experiences are part of the human condition, designed by Allah to draw us closer to Him.
• Hardship as a Means to Draw Nearer: These constraints, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, serve as a reminder of our dependence on Allah. They are moments where Al-Qabiz is at play, pulling the believer closer to Allah through the realization of one’s vulnerability and need for divine support. The eventual expansion through Al-Basit, whether in the form of inner peace or material ease, is a testament to Allah’s mercy and the balance He maintains in the life of a believer.
In essence, the story of the cave, viewed through the lens of Al-Qabiz and Al-Basit, reveals the deep wisdom in the cyclical nature of hardship and relief. It is through this divine orchestration that Allah draws His servants closer to Him, refining their faith and expanding their spiritual understanding.
Family, as you rightly noted, can be one of the most significant tests in this life. The environment you’ve described, one that feels suffocating and overwhelming, is a clear example of how challenging these tests can be. But just as you have found moments of peace in your sujood, and reassurance through your connection with Allah, continue to seek refuge in Him. Trust that He is Al-Qabiz, who allows these constrictions for a purpose, and Al-Basit, who will bring about relief and ease in His perfect timing.
Your struggle is not unnoticed by Allah, and every tear, every moment of anxiety, is seen by Him. Continue to take things day by day, as you’ve so wisely mentioned. The journey of tawakkul is indeed ongoing, and with each step, you’re building a deeper connection with your Creator. The peace you seek may sometimes feel distant, but it is closer than you think, as Allah is ever near to those who call upon Him.
Please know that you’re not alone in this journey. Your words will undoubtedly resonate with many who are facing similar battles. Keep writing, keep praying, and keep trusting that Allah, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, will guide you through this, whether through an escape or by granting you the strength to face your challenges head-on.
May Allah grant you ease, expand your heart with tranquility, and strengthen your faith through these trials. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
i truly do not know what to say. or even how to begin. i literally cried... okay, wait, am *still* crying reading this. thank you so much. you did not have to take the time to give such an informative, heartfelt, kind message in response to this post, i cannot even put my gratitude into words.
your repeated mentioning of Abu Bakr (RA) having such a high status and closeness to Allah and the Holy Prophet ﷺ, and yet still experiencing anxiety in the cave, is inexplicably reassuring and makes me feel so much better. thank you for taking the time to explain the attributes of Al-Qabiz and Al-Basit in such detail; through reading your insight, it reminded me that everything happens for a reason and everything has its higher purpose. you really listened and read what i said in such detail. i feel really seen, so thank you :) the story of the cave is truly so inspiring. alhamdulillah. thank you thank you !!!
i cannot even do justice to your message so i'll just say jazakallah khairan for your kindness. i think i'll re-read this message 400 times for the rest of the day and cry again. Ameen to your du'a and wa iyyaki. may Allah accept all your prayers and bring you so near to Him and His love, mercy, forgiveness and friendship, Ameen :')
ps. the last few paragraphs of your message :(((((((((((((((( ohhh, i can't do this! crying brb...
The opening about that despair / frustration you felt because of the anxiety coming back.. I felt that. It’s like you would expect it to be gone forever once you’ve dealt with it amirite?? And then when it comes back you’re just like come on, I thought we were past this? 🥲😅 but then I began to think of more severe periods of anxiety/depression like any other disease.. just because you catch a cold once doesn’t mean you’ll never catch a cold again.. you just have to keep treating it and give yourself time to rest and heal each time you catch one. And not to mention.. there’s meaning in our struggles so long as we persevere through them with patience like you said! So yeah, I hope that makes you feel a little better 😅 I really loved reading this, your writing always comes from the heart 💌
literally! so so frustrating. but wow that's really profound... 'just because you catch a cold once doesn’t mean you’ll never catch a cold again'. you're so right. it definitely did make me feel better, i really needed to hear that. it's just so... annoying. i want it to be gone once and for all but such is life, i guess. and like you rightfully said, there are meanings in it all. i hope i find the meaning soon :') and ahhhh thank you sm, it means so much 💌
Mashallah, your writing about an anxiety attack and your struggle with anxiety despite having the people and supports around you was moving. It’s funny — I was home in my childhood home and started to feel a similar anxiety from childhood too. An environment can bring that up. I don’t understand the science of psychology of the triggers, but I’ve noticed it too. For me, increasing in salawat and Dhikr helps tremendously with the anxious thoughts. Everyone goes through expansion and constriction but Shaytan wants you to stay in despair, so fight that. Your openness and remedy and Abdullah’s comment .. all tremendously helpful! May this post be heavy on your scales because it brought great benefit.
jazakallah khair for your comment :) wow... that's really interesting... thank you sm for the tips. i definitely need to get back into doing more dhikr, i've fallen off of it big time since i've come back home from uni :( i will fight shaytan. i will start doing dhikr again today. Allahumma Ameen, your du'a made me tear up :') ... ♡ ♡ ♡
Assalamu Alaikum. Jazakillah khairan for this piece. I pray Allah envelopes you with His perfect peace and washes away all your anxieties. Amin. Your piece reminded me of one of my favorite the Office quotes that goes:
“I wish there was a way to know the good old days, before you’ve actually left them”
Sometimes even when we are going through hardship there are numerous pockets of ease Allah sends our way. Just like in Surah Inshirah verse 5 where Allah says “truly with hardship comes ease” I find it so comforting that the Arabic word actually used for “hardship” is definite while the “ease” indefinite/plural, meaning with one hardship Allah gives you multiple forms of ease. The ball is in our house.. we just have to find our pockets of ease. Jazakillah khairan again. Amin
wa alaikum salam wa rahmatullah :') wa iyyaki ! :) thank you so much and Allahumma Ameen.
ahhh nabila, your messages always make my heart so warm. that quote is soooo relatable omg, and i didn't even know about the definite and indefinite in that verse! that is so beautiful and mind opening :') may Allah bless you abundantly, Ameen. this comment was so comforting and i appreciate it more than i can explain. thank you for reading and taking the time to leave this comment ♡
You’ve worded it so so perfectly honestly 😭🤍 anxiety has been the worst part of my healing but turning to Allah and gradually gaining tawwakul has changed my life sm for the better 🫶🏻
Sister, this is exactly what i needed 💗 how beautiful is that allah chose you for it. I have been struggling with a change that I'll be having, which will be moving to uni, i realized from your post it might turn out better than i presumed, also the health part..it has been my daily worries, whether I'd be able to handle my major and if someone would accept me with my flaws, your aunt's answer will forever give me peace. Thank you for sharing! At least you can guarantee that you've helped your fellow muslim sister insha'allah :)
subhanallah :') moving to uni honestly was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. it changed me in every single way--all for the better. truly. alhamdulillah :) i pray that it changes you for the better a hundred times more than it did for me and brings you closer to Allah, Ameen.
her answer will bring me peace too ... :') may we both get pious and understanding husbands who will not only accept but embrace our flaws and allow us to love them too. and may we both also be able to create such a beautiful and righteous family through Allah's mercy, Ameen. i'm always here if you need someone to relate to and talk to about it.
thank you for this message, it really means a lot to me ♡ jazakallah khair
ameen ya rab, what a beautiful dua <3 May allah accept it for the both of us and for all the sisters who are struggling with the same. May allah protect and reward your aunt and countinue to shower her with blessings ameen. For you as well, you have helped changed my perspective!
I also hope allah finds for you a solution after uni and that you'll be ten times happier for what allah has reserved for you.
Continue to inspire others, can't wait for more posts and to read your recent one's as well <3
Jazzakullai khairan for this. You're so right, like everything Tawakkul is a journey and even when sometimes it feels like you've mastered it, other tests come in that make you question it. May Allah SWT reward you for spreading such a beautiful message. I pray things get easier for you, love from Faheezal.
Firstly, I want to thank you for opening up and sharing such a deeply personal reflection. Your honesty and vulnerability in expressing your struggles, both spiritually and emotionally, is not only brave but also deeply moving. It’s clear that this article was written from the heart, and I truly appreciate the time and effort you’ve put into conveying your thoughts so eloquently.
Your journey, especially the balance between finding solace in your relationship with Allah and the overwhelming anxiety you’re currently experiencing, is something many can relate to on different levels. It’s evident that you’re navigating a period of intense constriction, where the weight of your circumstances feels particularly heavy. Yet, within your words, there’s also a profound sense of hope and resilience—a testament to the strength that Allah grants His servants, even in the most trying of times.
Reflecting on the attributes of Al-Qabiz (The Withholder) and Al-Basit (The Expander), it’s clear that the phases of constriction and expansion are a natural part of the divine wisdom that shapes our lives. Just as Abu Bakr (RA), one of the most righteous companions of the Prophet (pbuh), felt fear and anxiety in the cave, you too are experiencing this moment of constraint. But remember, it is often in these moments that Allah is drawing us closer to Him, refining our faith, and preparing us for the expansions that are to come.
Al-Qabiz and Al-Basit: An Overview
• Al-Qabiz signifies Allah’s ability to withhold, restrict, or constrain. This can manifest in various forms, such as limiting one’s provision, physical strength, emotional well-being, or even spiritual insight.
• Al-Basit, on the other hand, represents Allah’s power to expand, provide, and open up opportunities. This expansion could be in terms of sustenance, spiritual elevation, knowledge, or inner peace.
Together, these attributes illustrate the dynamic nature of human experience—times of ease followed by times of hardship, and vice versa. This cycle is integral to spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of one’s relationship with Allah.
The Cave Incident: A Contextual Reflection
In Surah At-Tawbah (9:40), Allah describes the moment when the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr (RA) were in the cave during their migration to Medina:
“If you do not aid him, Allah has already aided him when those who disbelieved had driven him out, as one of two, when they were in the cave and he said to his companion, ‘Do not grieve; indeed, Allah is with us.’ And Allah sent down His tranquility upon him and supported him with soldiers [angels] you did not see and made the word of those who disbelieved the lowest, while the word of Allah - that is the highest. And Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise.” (9:40)
In this verse, we see the interplay of Al-Qabiz and Al-Basit in the experience of Abu Bakr (RA), who despite his immense faith and status, felt fear and anxiety.
Al-Qabiz in the Cave
• Constriction and Anxiety: Abu Bakr (RA), despite his deep trust in Allah and closeness to the Prophet (pbuh), experienced fear and anxiety in the cave. This moment of intense constraint—both physically, as they were hiding from their pursuers, and emotionally, as he feared for the Prophet’s safety—illustrates the attribute of Al-Qabiz. Allah, in His wisdom, allowed this constriction to occur, even to the best of believers.
• Purpose of Constriction: The feeling of fear and anxiety, as represented by Al-Qabiz, serves a divine purpose. It is often in these moments of constraint that a person is drawn closer to Allah, seeking His protection and guidance. The fear Abu Bakr (RA) felt did not diminish his faith; rather, it became a means through which Allah tested and ultimately strengthened it.
Al-Basit in the Cave
• Expansion and Reassurance: When the Prophet (pbuh) told Abu Bakr (RA) not to grieve and assured him of Allah’s presence, this marked the transition from the constriction of Al-Qabiz to the expansion of Al-Basit. Allah’s tranquility, sakinah, descended upon them, expanding their hearts with peace and confidence despite the perilous situation.
• Divine Comfort: The tranquility sent down by Allah was an expression of Al-Basit, where what was previously tight and fearful was replaced by ease and comfort. This expansion of the heart, even in the face of danger, underscores Allah’s ability to provide peace and reassurance when it is most needed.
Life’s Hardships as Divine Pull
• Even the Most Righteous Experience Constraints: The story of the cave shows that even the most righteous, including Prophets and their closest companions, are not exempt from life’s difficulties. Abu Bakr (RA) felt the constraints of fear and anxiety despite his piety, demonstrating that these experiences are part of the human condition, designed by Allah to draw us closer to Him.
• Hardship as a Means to Draw Nearer: These constraints, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, serve as a reminder of our dependence on Allah. They are moments where Al-Qabiz is at play, pulling the believer closer to Allah through the realization of one’s vulnerability and need for divine support. The eventual expansion through Al-Basit, whether in the form of inner peace or material ease, is a testament to Allah’s mercy and the balance He maintains in the life of a believer.
In essence, the story of the cave, viewed through the lens of Al-Qabiz and Al-Basit, reveals the deep wisdom in the cyclical nature of hardship and relief. It is through this divine orchestration that Allah draws His servants closer to Him, refining their faith and expanding their spiritual understanding.
Family, as you rightly noted, can be one of the most significant tests in this life. The environment you’ve described, one that feels suffocating and overwhelming, is a clear example of how challenging these tests can be. But just as you have found moments of peace in your sujood, and reassurance through your connection with Allah, continue to seek refuge in Him. Trust that He is Al-Qabiz, who allows these constrictions for a purpose, and Al-Basit, who will bring about relief and ease in His perfect timing.
Your struggle is not unnoticed by Allah, and every tear, every moment of anxiety, is seen by Him. Continue to take things day by day, as you’ve so wisely mentioned. The journey of tawakkul is indeed ongoing, and with each step, you’re building a deeper connection with your Creator. The peace you seek may sometimes feel distant, but it is closer than you think, as Allah is ever near to those who call upon Him.
Please know that you’re not alone in this journey. Your words will undoubtedly resonate with many who are facing similar battles. Keep writing, keep praying, and keep trusting that Allah, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, will guide you through this, whether through an escape or by granting you the strength to face your challenges head-on.
May Allah grant you ease, expand your heart with tranquility, and strengthen your faith through these trials. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Warm regards,
i truly do not know what to say. or even how to begin. i literally cried... okay, wait, am *still* crying reading this. thank you so much. you did not have to take the time to give such an informative, heartfelt, kind message in response to this post, i cannot even put my gratitude into words.
your repeated mentioning of Abu Bakr (RA) having such a high status and closeness to Allah and the Holy Prophet ﷺ, and yet still experiencing anxiety in the cave, is inexplicably reassuring and makes me feel so much better. thank you for taking the time to explain the attributes of Al-Qabiz and Al-Basit in such detail; through reading your insight, it reminded me that everything happens for a reason and everything has its higher purpose. you really listened and read what i said in such detail. i feel really seen, so thank you :) the story of the cave is truly so inspiring. alhamdulillah. thank you thank you !!!
i cannot even do justice to your message so i'll just say jazakallah khairan for your kindness. i think i'll re-read this message 400 times for the rest of the day and cry again. Ameen to your du'a and wa iyyaki. may Allah accept all your prayers and bring you so near to Him and His love, mercy, forgiveness and friendship, Ameen :')
ps. the last few paragraphs of your message :(((((((((((((((( ohhh, i can't do this! crying brb...
The opening about that despair / frustration you felt because of the anxiety coming back.. I felt that. It’s like you would expect it to be gone forever once you’ve dealt with it amirite?? And then when it comes back you’re just like come on, I thought we were past this? 🥲😅 but then I began to think of more severe periods of anxiety/depression like any other disease.. just because you catch a cold once doesn’t mean you’ll never catch a cold again.. you just have to keep treating it and give yourself time to rest and heal each time you catch one. And not to mention.. there’s meaning in our struggles so long as we persevere through them with patience like you said! So yeah, I hope that makes you feel a little better 😅 I really loved reading this, your writing always comes from the heart 💌
literally! so so frustrating. but wow that's really profound... 'just because you catch a cold once doesn’t mean you’ll never catch a cold again'. you're so right. it definitely did make me feel better, i really needed to hear that. it's just so... annoying. i want it to be gone once and for all but such is life, i guess. and like you rightfully said, there are meanings in it all. i hope i find the meaning soon :') and ahhhh thank you sm, it means so much 💌
Mashallah, your writing about an anxiety attack and your struggle with anxiety despite having the people and supports around you was moving. It’s funny — I was home in my childhood home and started to feel a similar anxiety from childhood too. An environment can bring that up. I don’t understand the science of psychology of the triggers, but I’ve noticed it too. For me, increasing in salawat and Dhikr helps tremendously with the anxious thoughts. Everyone goes through expansion and constriction but Shaytan wants you to stay in despair, so fight that. Your openness and remedy and Abdullah’s comment .. all tremendously helpful! May this post be heavy on your scales because it brought great benefit.
jazakallah khair for your comment :) wow... that's really interesting... thank you sm for the tips. i definitely need to get back into doing more dhikr, i've fallen off of it big time since i've come back home from uni :( i will fight shaytan. i will start doing dhikr again today. Allahumma Ameen, your du'a made me tear up :') ... ♡ ♡ ♡
Al-Wakeel has got you🩶🫂
:’) thank you so much
Assalamu Alaikum. Jazakillah khairan for this piece. I pray Allah envelopes you with His perfect peace and washes away all your anxieties. Amin. Your piece reminded me of one of my favorite the Office quotes that goes:
“I wish there was a way to know the good old days, before you’ve actually left them”
Sometimes even when we are going through hardship there are numerous pockets of ease Allah sends our way. Just like in Surah Inshirah verse 5 where Allah says “truly with hardship comes ease” I find it so comforting that the Arabic word actually used for “hardship” is definite while the “ease” indefinite/plural, meaning with one hardship Allah gives you multiple forms of ease. The ball is in our house.. we just have to find our pockets of ease. Jazakillah khairan again. Amin
wa alaikum salam wa rahmatullah :') wa iyyaki ! :) thank you so much and Allahumma Ameen.
ahhh nabila, your messages always make my heart so warm. that quote is soooo relatable omg, and i didn't even know about the definite and indefinite in that verse! that is so beautiful and mind opening :') may Allah bless you abundantly, Ameen. this comment was so comforting and i appreciate it more than i can explain. thank you for reading and taking the time to leave this comment ♡
Amin wa iyakki! Anytimee 💓💓💓
You’ve worded it so so perfectly honestly 😭🤍 anxiety has been the worst part of my healing but turning to Allah and gradually gaining tawwakul has changed my life sm for the better 🫶🏻
i pray your anxiety eases and you find sm peace in the ever-present company of Allah, Ameen :) ♡
Ameen 🥹🫶🏻
Sister, this is exactly what i needed 💗 how beautiful is that allah chose you for it. I have been struggling with a change that I'll be having, which will be moving to uni, i realized from your post it might turn out better than i presumed, also the health part..it has been my daily worries, whether I'd be able to handle my major and if someone would accept me with my flaws, your aunt's answer will forever give me peace. Thank you for sharing! At least you can guarantee that you've helped your fellow muslim sister insha'allah :)
subhanallah :') moving to uni honestly was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. it changed me in every single way--all for the better. truly. alhamdulillah :) i pray that it changes you for the better a hundred times more than it did for me and brings you closer to Allah, Ameen.
her answer will bring me peace too ... :') may we both get pious and understanding husbands who will not only accept but embrace our flaws and allow us to love them too. and may we both also be able to create such a beautiful and righteous family through Allah's mercy, Ameen. i'm always here if you need someone to relate to and talk to about it.
thank you for this message, it really means a lot to me ♡ jazakallah khair
wa iyyaki sister!
ameen ya rab, what a beautiful dua <3 May allah accept it for the both of us and for all the sisters who are struggling with the same. May allah protect and reward your aunt and countinue to shower her with blessings ameen. For you as well, you have helped changed my perspective!
I also hope allah finds for you a solution after uni and that you'll be ten times happier for what allah has reserved for you.
Continue to inspire others, can't wait for more posts and to read your recent one's as well <3
Allahumma Ameen :') thank you so much. Insha’Allah <333
Jazzakullai khairan for this. You're so right, like everything Tawakkul is a journey and even when sometimes it feels like you've mastered it, other tests come in that make you question it. May Allah SWT reward you for spreading such a beautiful message. I pray things get easier for you, love from Faheezal.