The punishments of Allah (SWT) are of two types: the greater (Akbar) and the lesser (Adna). The greater punishment is the punishment of the Hereafter, which will be given as a retribution for disbelief and transgression. In contrast to it is the lesser punishment, which refers to those afflictions that reach man in this world. For example, in individual lives: severe illnesses, the death of one's dearest loved ones, tragic accidents, losses, failures, etc. And in collective life: storms, earthquakes, floods, epidemics, famines, riots, wars, and many other calamities that engulf thousands, lakhs, and crores of human beings. The wisdom behind sending these disasters is that before becoming afflicted with the greater punishment, people may come to their senses and abandon that way of thinking and acting, as a retribution for which they would ultimately have to suffer that major punishment. In other words, Allah Almighty has not kept man entirely free from trials in this world so that the wagon of life keeps moving with absolute comfort and peace, and man falls into the misconception that there is no power above him that can do him any harm. Rather, Allah Almighty has made such an arrangement that from time to time He keeps sending such calamities upon individuals, as well as upon nations and countries, which make them realize their helplessness and the sovereignty of a Ruler and King supreme to them. These disasters remind each person, each group, and each nation that someone else above is controlling your destinies. Everything has not been handed over to you. The absolute power lies in the hands of that very ruling Authority. When any calamity comes upon you from His side, neither any plan of yours can avert it, nor any jinn, spirit, goddess, or deity.