Riyad Us-Saliheen (Gardens of the Righteous)

Chapter 239
The Excellence of Worship in the time of Tribulations

1366.   Ma`qil bin Yasar (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "The reward of worship performed at a time of trials is equal in reward to an emigration to me.''
[Muslim].

Commentary: When turmoil is rampant and society is plagued with evils, the worship and obedience of Allah becomes very difficult. The reason being that in such a situation evils are widespread and therefore everyone easily inclines to them. In such circumstances, worship of Allah and compliance of His Orders are merits of great eminence and their reward have been likened to the reward of going for Hijrah (Emigration) to Al-Madinah at that time when this migration was Wajib (obligatory). Emigration was at that time obligatory and to bid farewell to home, property, business and homeland was sacrifice of the highest order. But this sacrifice was worth its reward. A similar reward is promised to those who will be obedient to Allah and worship Him in an age of mischief. A believer should avoid taking part in turmoil and occupy himself worshipping Allah instead. (Editor's Note)