Job: Bringing pain into prayer

Job is remembered as a servant who called out to his Lord with the distress that afflicted him. In his prayer, he does not hide what he is experiencing; he explicitly states that he has been harmed. In the same sentence, he mentions the mercy of God. These two aspects are important together: voicing one's pain and turning to one's Lord are not opposing attitudes in the narrative.

It is stated that God responded to his call and removed the distress upon him. It is related that his family and a like amount with them were given to him. This response is presented as a mercy from God and a reminder for those who serve. The selected verses establish a short but clear framework from the beginning of the event to the relief at its conclusion.

The relevant section in Surah Sad mentions Job's fatigue and pain again. He is told to strike the ground with his foot, and the cool water for washing and drinking is shown to him. Thus, not only his suffering but also the concrete means provided for the removal of his suffering is part of the story.

The grace regarding his family is recalled once more. Then, the ease shown to him regarding his oath is conveyed, and it is stated that Job was a servant who turned often to God. These verses do not give the name of the illness or its exact duration. Instead of relaying every later physical detail as if the Quran said it, the framework of prayer, mercy, water, and recovery mentioned here is preserved.