There is a verse in the Quran that carries a simple but powerful message:
فَإِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا
Indeed, with hardship comes ease.(Surah Ash-Sharh, 94:6)
This verse isn’t just about hope; it’s a reminder that hardship and relief are bound together, even if it doesn’t always feel that way in the moment. It’s a comforting thought for many, no matter what they’re going through.
God says "with hardship," not "after hardship." The Arabic word "مع" (maʿa), which translates to "with," suggests that ease accompanies difficulty, rather than following it. Ease is not a distant reward after hardship but something intertwined with it, offering comfort even during challenging times.
Interestingly, this verse is said to have inspired one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in Isfahan, the second-largest city in Iran: the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque.
A mosque that tells a story
In the main square of Isfahan (Naqsh-e Jahan), there is a famous mosque called the Shah Mosque. But if you’re a local, you know that even though the Shah Mosque is spectacularly beautiful and grand, there is a smaller mosque just around the corner that has a depth and quiet beauty that stays with you for life. That mosque is the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque.
It’s an experience, not just an attraction. Some say the design of this mosque was inspired by the Quranic verse about hardship and ease: "Indeed, with hardship comes ease." (Surah Ash-Sharh, 94:6).
When you enter the mosque, you begin in a plain, modest corridor. It’s narrow, dimly lit, with a feeling of uncertainty. But as you walk through, light begins to guide your way. The corridor twists and turns, almost like a journey through life’s challenges.
Then, suddenly, you step into a vast, open space under a beautifully decorated dome. The room feels expansive and airy, with intricate patterns and calligraphy spiraling toward the ceiling. Despite it being BIG, there’s a sense of calm in the simplicity of the design. It feels peaceful.
The architecture leads you from a small, dark corridor into a bright, open hall, mirroring the journey of life—where hardship and ease are intertwined in a natural flow. There’s no clear start or end, just a whirlwind of emotions. It’s as though the building itself reflects the message of the verse.
Visiting Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
At Deenista, we visited this mosque, and the experience was unforgettable. Walking through the dark, winding entrance felt almost symbolic—like moving through life’s struggles. Then, stepping into the open hall was breathtaking. It’s an indescribable transition between light and dark, narrow and wide, small and vast.
The entrance is so humble that you don’t expect what comes next. But when you finally reach the dome, goosebumps take over. The humble grandeur surrounds you, and a sense of peace rushes through.
We took some photos and a video during our visit, and while they capture some of the beauty, nothing compares to being there in person.
Reflecting on the verse
This verse is simple but profound. It’s a reminder that with difficulty comes ease, often in ways you may not recognize at the time. Somehow, somewhere, relief is present, even if you’re experiencing it consciously or subconsciously.
Standing in Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, you can feel the truth of this message. The building doesn’t just convey the verse; it makes you experience it.
After visiting the mosque, it’s hard not to believe the story about its design being inspired by this verse. Once you experience it for yourself, the connection feels undeniable.
Islamic architecture is often about more than just beauty. It’s designed to evoke feelings and thoughts, to remind you of spiritual truths.
A spiritual journey through architecture
The next time life feels overwhelming, remember this verse. And if you ever get the chance to visit Isfahan, take a moment to walk through Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. Feel the journey of darkness and light, and see how the architecture reflects the promise of ease with hardship.
