Q&A Religious Enquiries Is the virus outbreak a form of bala’ or retribution from Allah s.w.t?

Is the virus outbreak a form of bala’ or retribution from Allah s.w.t?

Number: 2
Publication: 2020-02-09
Answer
Praise be to Allah s.w.t.

it is important for us to ensure that we do not form opinions and make judgements without care or consideration, such as attributing any unfortunate incident to be a result of committing a wrong/sin.

Allah knows best the reason behind every incident. What has been commanded to us by Allah is to pray and rely upon Him, combined with our efforts in ameliorating the situation.
One of the prayers the Prophet has taught us in facing such trials and adversities is:

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الَّذِي لَا يَضُرُّ مَعَ اسْمِهِ شَيْءٌ فِي الْأَرْضِ وَلَا فِي السَّمَاءِ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ

In the Name of Allah with Whose Name there is protection against every kind of harm in the earth or in heaven, and He is the All-Hearing and All-Knowing

Allah knows best.

Source: Office of Mufti, Irsyad (Religious Advisory) On Managing The Coronavirus Outbreak