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These are tests for us and them, just as we are promised.

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient, who, when disaster strikes them, say, “Indeed we belong to God, and indeed to Him we will return.” Those are the ones upon whom are blessings from their Lord and mercy. And it is those who are guided.

Quran 2:155-157

Tests for us in that we are now required to respond with every sinew of compassion we can muster. To give of our wealth to those in need. To empty our wardrobes of winter clothes to send to those now braving the winter cold. To look after widows and orphans, the elderly, infirm and bereaved.

They ask you what they should spend. Say, “Whatever you spend of good is for parents and relatives and orphans and the needy and the traveler. And whatever you do of good — indeed, God knows of it.”

Quran 2:215

A test for us, and all nations, whose greatness is not judged by its accumulated wealth or military prowess, but how it responds to the most vulnerable in their moment of greatest need. Will we humbly serve the people, treating them with kindness and care, setting aside enmity and hatreds? Will we at last see their humanity?

Serve God and do not associate partners with Him. And do good to parents, and relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbour, the stranger, the companion at your side, the traveler, and those whom your right hands possess. For God does not like the arrogant, boastful.

Quran 4:36

The scale of disaster may numb some, shaking their faith entirely. But for others, it will awaken their humanity, driving them to respond at scale, giving of everything they have to help those afflicted by trauma and loss. For some, from tragedy renewal is born, as they rush to support those in need.

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, saying, “We feed you for the sake of God alone: We seek neither recompense nor thanks from you.”

Quran 76:8-9

As for those afflicted by devastation, there is that persistent hope, for the Prophet, peace be upon him, is reported to have said:

“The martyrs are of five kinds: one who dies of plague, one who dies of disease, one who drowns, one who dies under debris, and one who dies in the way of God almighty.”

Hadith, Al-Bukhari and Muslim

Those left behind say, “Indeed we belong to God, and indeed to Him we will return.” Those are the ones upon whom are blessings from their Lord and great mercy.