Action and Reward
\r\n Al-Nahl (The Bees) - Chapter 16: Verse 97
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"Whoever does righteous deeds, whether man or woman, and is a believer, We shall most certainly give a good life. And We shall indeed reward these according to the best of that they ever did.\"
This verse sets down a general rule about action and reward. The first item in this rule is that the two sexes, male and female, are equal with regard to their actions and the reward that they receive for them. They enjoy the same relationship with God and the same standing in His regard. Hence, He rewards them equally, applying one measure to both of them. Although, the term, 'whoever', with which the verse opens, includes both men and women, the Quranic statement emphasizes this by stating it clearly.
\r\nAnother aspect of this general rule is that good action must have a strong foundation, which must be faith. Faith provides the axis around which all bonds run. It gives good action a motive and an aim. Thus it gives goodness a strong foundation so that fleeting desires does not sway it.
\r\nThe rule also establishes that when good action is coupled with faith, it is rewarded by a goodly life in this world. It need not be a life of affluence and riches. It may be a goodly life with or without plenty of money. There are many things in life, other than money, which provide a goodly feeling and happiness. A strong bond with God and a feeling of trust in Him and His abounding grace make life happy indeed. Life may also be blessed with good health, a peaceful and blessed living, love and compassion.
\r\nThis general rule also makes clear that a goodly life in this world will not reduce in any way one's good reward in the life to come. Indeed the reward is based on the best actions believers do in this world. This implies that God will forgive them their sins. This is indeed the best reward to which human beings may aspire.
\r\nCompiled From:
\r\n \"In The Shade of The Quran\" - Sayyid Qutb, Vol. 11, pp. 93, 94