As Much as Ayyub’s Reward

The Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Whoever of you has a wife who behaves in a disagreeable manner but he responds by kindness and patience, will be given by Allah rewards as much as Ayyub was given for his forbearance.” [Ihya Ulum Id-Din by Imam Ghazali]

Ayyub (alaihis salam) was tried and tested by Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) in an exemplary way. Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) had given him wealth and children. But then He caused him to lose all his wealth. Then He afflicted him by the death of his children. Finally, He caused Ayyub (alaihis salam) to develop painful and ugly sores all over his body.

But with each calamity Ayyub (alaihis salam) displayed the patience and forbearance for which he is famous. He never stopped thanking Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) for His favours until Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) reversed his condition and gave everything back to him again with increase.

A man can earn the reward that Ayyub (alaihis salam) earned through his Sabr by displaying forbearance, patience and kindness with a wife who is ill-tempered.