Once upon a time, an affluent man lived in a village. He was very wealthy, and everyone talked about his superiority and nobility. His reputation was known far and wide, and his position helped him marry women from rich dynasties. He was very happy with his affairs; everything was going well, and the family setup was good. His property was increasing day by day. He never expected a downfall and was also dreaming big.
Once, a man of modest means arrived at his home and knocked on his door. Meanwhile, a wealthy man was having lunch and felt disturbed by the poor man’s knocking. Reacting with anger, the rich man roared and forcefully pushed the poor man away. Despite the push, the poor man managed to regain his footing, retreated from the scene, and escaped.
Aasmaan Itni Bulandi Pe Jo Utraata Hai
Bhool Jata Hai Zameen Se Hi Nazar Aata Hai
(Waseem Barelvi)
This encounter held significance beyond the immediate circumstances for the poor man; it was a test from Allah. Subsequently, the rich man began to experience a decline in his prosperity. Losses in both property and business ensued, catching the wealthy individual off guard. Coping with these unexpected setbacks proved challenging, leading the rich person to liquidate all assets. As a result, the rich man’s situation worsened day by day, making for a miserable existence.
Encountering an unexpected setback, the wealthy man became deeply frustrated. He chose to end his marriage, affecting both familial and broader social connections. Severing ties from all sides, he watched as his ex-wife moved on and remarried elsewhere after a considerable period.
Falling into a state of despair, the man resorted to begging in a different village. As he approached, his attention was captivated by a lavishly adorned house. Enticed by the possibility of encountering another affluent individual, he decided to knock on the door. Inside, the house owner, engaged in lunch, directed his wife to go and assist the visitor with a piece of meat.
The homeowner observed a different situation and comforted his crying wife, saying, “Why are you upset? Everything is fine with you.” He, too, was emotional and pointed out a destitute person with tattered clothes and a difficult situation. Trying to console his wife, he said, “Don’t cry. This world is not exclusively for the wealthy; it’s also for the less fortunate.”
In response, his wife clarified, “I am not crying for his circumstances or social standing. This impoverished individual was once my husband.” She proceeded to share the entire story with her husband, recounting how her ex-husband, despite being affluent in the past, had mistreated less privileged individuals.
The affluent homeowner conveyed, “Let your wife ease her mind and hear me out. I am the individual who was pushed down by your ex-husband.” Startled, she promptly closed that chapter and expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for their blessings.
This poignant tale serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of wealth, the importance of humility, and the divine justice that often guides the course of our lives.
The writer can be reached at [email protected]

Rameez Rasool Mir