[Book Review: The Art of Waiting by Ezzah Mahmud] Finding Beauty in the Wait, Unlock The Blessings with Patience and Faith
Recently, I experienced a setback when I missed my online midterm exam. I had thoroughly prepared for the exam three weeks in advance, ensuring plenty of time for revision. However, I overlooked the fact that the exam was scheduled according to Saudi Arabia’s time zone, and as a result, I missed the sitting. The error was mine for not double-checking the time, something I normally do diligently. Thankfully, I will have the opportunity to retake the exam, but I will lose 15% of the marks. Although this is disappointing, I am reminded of the wisdom in the Qur’anic verse: “And they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.” (Qur’an 8:30). Alhamdulillah, for indeed, there is wisdom in every situation, even if we do not fully understand it at the time.
This incident led me into a period of deep reflection. During this time, I recalled a book I had recently finished, The Art of Waiting by Ezzah Mahmud, published by IMAN Publications. The book provided invaluable insights on the concept of waiting and transformed my understanding of patience and timing from an Islamic perspective. The teachings of the Qur’an and the views of Islamic scholars reinforced the lessons I gleaned from the book.
One of the most profound lessons from the book is that waiting is not a passive process. Allah tells us in the Qur’an:
إِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا
"Indeed, with hardship comes ease." [Ash-Sharh 94:6]
This verse reminds us that even in moments of waiting, there is purpose and benefit. Waiting can be a time for personal growth, reflection, and spiritual development. It is an opportunity to strengthen our connection with Allah and to work on our inner selves. This aligns with the views of scholars like Ibn al-Qayyim, who emphasised that patience during times of waiting is a form of worship that brings us closer to Allah. He described patience (sabr) as "half of faith" and encouraged believers to recognise that every moment of waiting is an opportunity for spiritual growth and drawing closer to Allah through acts of worship and self-reflection.
Another key takeaway from the book is the significance of finding purpose in patience. The Prophet Muhammad SAW said:
"No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even if it were the prick he receives from a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that." [Sahih Bukhari]
This hadith teaches us that every difficulty, delay, or challenge we face has a greater purpose and can serve as a means for our sins to be forgiven. By understanding this, we can approach waiting with an open heart, knowing that it is part of Allah’s plan for us and a path to purification.
The concept of trusting in Allah’s timing is another key message, both in the book and within Islamic tradition. Allah says in the Qur’an:
وَمَن يَتَّقِ اللَّهَ يَجْعَل لَّهُ مَخْرَجًا. وَيَرْزُقْهُ مِنْ حَيْثُ لَا يَحْتَسِبُ. وَمَن يَتَوَكَّلْ عَلَى اللَّهِ فَهُوَ حَسْبُهُ
"And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him." [At-Talaq 65:2-3]
This verse emphasises the importance of tawakkul (trust in Allah). When we place our trust in Allah and accept that His timing is perfect, even in situations that seem unfavourable, we find peace. Scholars such as Al-Ghazali have long encouraged believers to adopt tawakkul as a cornerstone of their faith, reminding us that Allah’s wisdom surpasses our understanding. Therefore, waiting with patience and trust is a way of submitting to Allah's will.
Lastly, the notion that waiting should be viewed as an opportunity for growth deeply resonated with me. Allah commands in the Qur’an:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اصْبِرُوا وَصَابِرُوا وَرَابِطُوا وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ
"O you who have believed, persevere and endure and remain stationed and fear Allah that you may be successful." [Ali Imran 3:200]
This verse reminds us that waiting is not a time for passivity. Rather, it is a period in which we must remain proactive and continue to strive for success through perseverance and faith. Islamic scholars such as Imam Al-Nawawi have stressed that during times of waiting, one should engage in acts of worship, self-reflection, and the pursuit of knowledge. Waiting, therefore, becomes a form of ibadah (worship), a time for preparing oneself for future challenges, both worldly and spiritual.
The message of The Art of Waiting aligns with the teachings of Islam in numerous ways. If you are struggling with waiting, whether it be for personal goals, life changes, or spiritual milestones, I highly recommend the book. It serves as a reminder that patience is not only expected but also rewarded. The book echoes the wisdom found in the Qur’an and Hadith, where waiting is seen as a journey towards personal growth, peace, and connection with Allah.
The analogy of waiting as a piece of artwork beautifully illustrates this idea. While we may attempt to “paint” our life’s journey with our limited knowledge and resources, the ultimate masterpiece is in the hands of Allah, the Best of Creators.
As believers, we trust that no matter how we envision the outcome, Allah’s plan will always be the best. As the Prophet SAW said:
"Wondrous is the affair of the believer, for there is good for him in every matter, and this is not the case with anyone except the believer. If he is happy, then he thanks Allah and there is good for him. If he is harmed, then he shows patience and there is good for him." [Sahih Muslim]
In conclusion, waiting, whether for an exam or any other event in life, is an opportunity for growth, reflection, and trust in Allah’s perfect plan. Patience, coupled with faith, transforms waiting into an active process that can bring us closer to our Creator, allowing us to see the beauty in every moment and ensuring that the final outcome is always for our benefit.