What is Istidraj; The Issue of Prayer Fulfillment During Sin
According to Mobalegh’s Thought and Culture website, the book ‘Istidraj (Step-by-Step Fall)’, prepared in 128 pages, reached its third print run through the efforts of Boostan-e Ketab Institute.
Istidraj, in terminology, alongside the stages of human guidance and general trial, is one of the widespread divine traditions, specifically for misguided and rebellious people, in which a person gradually and indirectly approaches torment and destruction due to persistence in sin and disobedience.
In the present work, the dimensions, factors and signs, philosophy, harmful effects, and safety strategies from Istidraj are discussed, based on Quranic verses.
Structure of the Work
This book is authored in seven sections; the first section, titled ‘About Istidraj’, examines the semantic scope of Istidraj, the tradition of Istidraj, the psychology of Istidraj, and the followers of Satan on the precipice of hell.
The second section, titled ‘Comprehensive Dimensions of Istidraj’, explains physical health, longevity and abundant blessings, assurance of accepted deeds, victory of disbelievers in war against Muslims, and prayer fulfillment during sin.
‘Negative Patterns of Istidraj’ is the title of the third section of the present book, in which the people of Noah, the nations after Noah, and Pharaoh are described, and the Children of Israel and the disbelievers of the Arabian Peninsula are written about.
The fourth section, titled ‘Factors and Signs of Istidraj’, emphasizes ideological attributes, psychological attributes, apparent attributes, and actions and behaviors.
The fifth and sixth sections, respectively, explain ‘The Philosophy and Wisdom of Istidraj’ and ‘Harmful Effects and Dire Consequences of Istidraj’.
The seventh and final section of this book, titled ‘Strategies for Safety from Istidraj’, has compiled faith and piety, the equation of fear and hope, contemplation of worldly events and divine traditions, as well as Musharatah, Muraqabah, Muhasabah, and Mu’atabah.
Prayer Fulfillment During Sin
God provides every means to awaken sinners from the sleep of heedlessness and warn them. Perhaps out of mercy, He may bring down affliction and sin upon sinful servants or not answer their prayers. However, if these remedies are not effective, there will be no further obstacle to the descent of divine blessings and the answering of their various prayers. Therefore, whenever a sinner sees their prayers being answered one after another, they should fear for their condition and consider reforming themselves.
