Matters by Which Allah Lifts Affliction

Question:
He says: Shaykh, what is the thing that lifts affliction, and what are the matters that also help in lifting affliction? May you be rewarded.

Answer:
The greatest thing that lifts affliction is repentance. The Commander of the Faithful, 'Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him), said: "No affliction descends except by a sin, and it is not lifted except by repentance." Therefore, it is obligatory to repent from sins, for they are the cause of affliction and the cause of punishments. Repent from the individual sins and from the collective ones; repent to Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He). Also, among the causes of lifting affliction is supplication, increasing in supplication, and utilizing the Shari'ah ruqyah (healing by Qur'anic recitation). And also treatment, permissible treatment, permissible medicines. These permissible medicines are also among the causes of lifting illness. One takes the prescribed means, along with patience and seeking reward, and not being distressed. Yes.