Surah Al-Anbiya — Verse 35

Every soul shall taste death—there is no escape from this truth, no matter how long one lives or how much one accumulates in this world. This is the ultimate reality that levels all people: the rich and the poor, the strong and the weak, the believer and the disbeliever alike.

And We test you with evil and with good as a trial. Life itself is a testing ground. The trials come in many forms: sometimes through hardship—illness, poverty, loss, and fear—to see how you exercise patience and trust in Allah; and sometimes through ease—wealth, health, success, and joy—to see how you express gratitude and use these blessings in obedience to your Lord. Both are tests, and neither should distract you from your true purpose.

And to Us you will be returned. Your journey does not end at death; rather, it is a transition to the eternal life where every deed—small or great—will be brought forth for reckoning. Allah alone is the Judge, and to Him alone belongs the final reward and punishment.

This verse carries a profound reminder: do not become attached to the fleeting pleasures of this world, nor despair in times of difficulty. Instead, live with awareness that every moment is an exam, and your success lies in remaining steadfast—patient in adversity, grateful in prosperity, and always conscious that your ultimate return is to your Creator, who is Most Merciful and Most Just.