Q 1: I was afflicted with a disease a year or more ago. Before that time, I was living with my family in our village, but I moved to Cairo, the capital where I work as an elementary school teacher. I was afflicted with typhoid fever and since my work provides health insurance, I was hospitalized. However, I did not receive the proper care and suffered as a result from a clot in my left leg. Later, my family members came to Cairo and accompanied me back to our village. Most of my fellow villagers received me saying that (Part No. 2; Page No. 508) I brought this upon myself and had I stayed home and not moved to Cairo, nothing would have happened to me. Now I am confused although I believe in Allah's Divine Decree and Predestination. Please clarify this matter for me. Is it true that a person can bring harm upon themselves by doing a certain act, or is it their predestination? How can I answer those who claim I was the cause of what befell me?

A: This is Allah's Divine Decree and Predestination and you should endure and never become impatient, for these diseases and afflictions are for the benefit of a believer. It is confirmed that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, Amazing is the disposition of believers; for there is good for them in every affair; and this is not the case with anyone except a believer. If something good happens to them, they thank (Allah), thus there is good in it for them; and if they suffer an affliction, they endure patiently, and there is good in it for them." (Related by Muslim) The Prophet (peace be upon him) also stated, “No disease, nor fatigue, nor affliction, nor grief, nor hurt, nor anguish befalls a Muslim, or even a prick from a thorn, without Allah expiating some of their sins for it.” (Related by Al-Bukhari and Muslim). Moreover, you have to seek the lawful means of treatment, while maintaining your relationship with Allah, mentioning Him often and turning to Him. May Allah grant you well-being and compensate you for your affliction.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.