Facing Illness with Patience

Every living creature must have experienced what is called illness. Hasan Basri Tanjung, Chairman of the Dinamika Umat Foundation, stated that there are two perceptions in responding to illness. First, illness as a test, and second, illness as a punishment. Illness as a test and as an opportunity for self-improvement. The test here is part of our way to increase our level of piety towards God. Illness can occur as a result of human error itself. "Illness can be due to one's own wrongdoing*," said a lecturer from Djuanda University (Unida) Bogor. Hasan gave an example of people who continue to eat food even though they know it is dangerous and affects their health. There is also illness that is indeed a punishment from God, afflicting a region with an epidemic; this is an illness originating from outside oneself, serving as a warning from God. "Every breath taken by a sick person can atone for their sins," said Hasan. In a state of illness, one should offer prayers and have faith that God will heal and remove the sickness. Sick people are forbidden from despairing; despair can lead people to engage in undesirable behavior, even committing suicide. Prof. Maman Abdurrahman, General Chairman of PP Persis, stated that illnesses afflicting humans can come from various sources. However, fundamentally, illnesses arise from human behavior that does not properly care for the body. Prayers offered for the sick are important so that they may quickly recover from their illness. Prayer accompanied by patience will bring peace of mind. Peace of mind is part of accelerating recovery because it brings comfort. References: Tejomukti, Ratna Ajeng, edited by Hafidz Muftisany. Republika Friday Dialogue, page 2. Friday, March 7, 2014 - 6 Jumadil Awal 1435 H.