Consequences of One's focus on charms of this world or that of the Hereafter (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

The charms of this world are enormous, bewildering humans and enticing them to go for a life of full of amusement, leisure or even lewdness. And  when such focus of men is sensed by the Evil, its efforts get multiplied to lure in the hungry men into a life of wealth, status and pleasures. Most of us fall in this category of men. But despite the glitter of worldly wants, there remain some, though not many, who scarifies their worldly wants and focus on the charms of a life that will be eternal and never ending.

This is the test man has been given by our Creator to ascertain the level of faith and pursuance of a life the charms of which are unimaginable and everlasting. Thus, those who opt for temporary pleasures of this world will be the ultimate losers and will have only a restricted share, while those who opt for the life of the hereafter will be the blessed ones.  This is the theme of a hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ being shared today.

This Hadith is mentioned in Sunan Ibn Majah /  Book 37 Zuhd / كتاب الزهد) / Chapter 2: Being concerned with this world / باب  الْهَمِّ بِالدُّنْيَا ‏ / as Hadith number # 4105 under:

‘Abdur-Rahman bin Aban bin ‘Uthman bin ‘Affan narrated that his father said:

“Zaid bin Thabit departed from Marwan at mid-day. I said: ‘He has not sent him out at this time of the day except for something he asked.’ So I asked him, and he said: ‘He asked me about some things we heard from the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: “Whoever is focused only on this world, Allah will confound his affairs and make him fear poverty constantly, and he will not get anything of this world except that which has been decreed for him. Whoever is focused on the Hereafter, Allah will settle his affairs for him and make him feel content with his lot, and his provision and worldly gains will undoubtedly come to him.”

Arabic Text

حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ بَشَّارٍ، حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ جَعْفَرٍ، حَدَّثَنَا شُعْبَةُ، عَنْ عُمَرَ بْنِ سُلَيْمَانَ، قَالَ سَمِعْتُ عَبْدَ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنَ أَبَانَ بْنِ عُثْمَانَ بْنِ عَفَّانَ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، قَالَ خَرَجَ زَيْدُ بْنُ ثَابِتٍ مِنْ عِنْدِ مَرْوَانَ بِنِصْفِ النَّهَارِ فَقُلْتُ مَا بَعَثَ إِلَيْهِ هَذِهِ السَّاعَةَ إِلاَّ لِشَىْءٍ سَأَلَ عَنْهُ ‏.‏ فَسَأَلْتُهُ فَقَالَ سَأَلَنَا عَنْ أَشْيَاءَ سَمِعْنَاهَا مِنْ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ سَمِعْتُ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ يَقُولُ ‏ "‏ مَنْ كَانَتِ الدُّنْيَا هَمَّهُ فَرَّقَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ أَمْرَهُ وَجَعَلَ فَقْرَهُ بَيْنَ عَيْنَيْهِ وَلَمْ يَأْتِهِ مِنَ الدُّنْيَا إِلاَّ مَا كُتِبَ لَهُ وَمَنْ كَانَتِ الآخِرَةُ نِيَّتَهُ جَمَعَ اللَّهُ لَهُ أَمْرَهُ وَجَعَلَ غِنَاهُ فِي قَلْبِهِ وَأَتَتْهُ الدُّنْيَا وَهِيَ رَاغِمَةٌ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Grade: Sahih (Darussalam)

Explanation of the Hadith: Lets us look deeper into its meaning and consequences of the choice one makes:

"Whoever is focused only on this world..."

This describes someone whose ultimate concern is material gain, status, pleasure, or worldly success — neglecting the spiritual dimension of life.

• Qur'an connection:
• "Whoever desires the life of this world and its adornments – We fully repay them for their deeds therein, and they will not be deprived. But they will have nothing in the Hereafter but the Fire..." (Surah Hud 11:15-16)
• The Qur'an acknowledges that some will chase the dunya, and they may get their share — but at the cost of the Hereafter.

"Allah will confound his affairs..."

This means a life of internal chaos, anxiety, lack of focus, or constant dissatisfaction. Despite effort, nothing seems truly fulfilling or stable.

• Qur'an connection:
• "But whoever turns away from My remembrance – indeed, he will have a depressed life..." (Surah Taha 20:124)
• When the heart is detached from purpose (Akhirah), life can feel directionless, no matter how successful someone seems outwardly.

"...and make him fear poverty constantly..."

A person focused on the world is never at ease — always worried about money, success, or losing what they have.

• Qur'an connection:
• "Satan threatens you with poverty and commands you to immorality..." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:268)
• Obsession with dunya opens the door to fear, anxiety, and even unethical behavior to hold onto it.

"...and he will not get anything of this world except that which has been decreed for him."

Even if someone chases wealth 24/7, they will only receive what Allah has already written for them.

• Qur'an connection:
• "There is no creature on earth but that its provision is upon Allah." (Surah Hud 11:6)
• This reinforces trust in divine provision — your rizq (sustenance) will reach you, regardless of your obsession or lack of it.

"Whoever is focused on the Hereafter..."

This person lives with the Akhirah as their compass. They still engage with the world, but their heart is anchored in faith, service, and ultimate return to Allah.

• Qur'an connection: "But whoever desires the Hereafter and strives for it accordingly, while being a believer – it is they whose effort will be appreciated." (Surah Al-Isra 17:19)

"Allah will settle his affairs for him..."

This speaks of clarity, calm, and divine assistance. Things may not be easy, but they're purposeful and manageable.

• Qur'an connection: "Whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out and provide for him from where he does not expect..." (Surah At-Talaq 65:2-3)

"...and make him feel content with his lot..."

He has peace in his heart — not because he has more, but because he trusts more.

• Qur'an connection: "Truly, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:28)

"...and the world will come to him willingly."

Subhan Allah — when the heart is focused on Allah, the dunya comes without being chased. Like a shadow follows you when you walk toward the light.

• Qur'an connection: "Your Lord has promised: ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]...’" (Surah Ibrahim 14:7)

Final Reflection:

This hadith and its Qur'anic parallels teach us something timeless:

• The dunya is a means, not the goal.
• When we chase the Hereafter, the world follows.
• When we chase the world, we lose both.
• It's a reminder to adjust our focus, not abandon life, but live with purpose — and peace will follow.

The hadith thus tells us that chasing the Hereafter brings both spiritual reward and worldly balance. So let us brothers and sisters in Islam, and even the non Muslims reading this post, to stay away from charms of this world for these are temporary and take us away from the remembrance of Allah, something that is needed to be blessed with the charms of the life of the Hereafter.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

| Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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What should Riches mean to a believer

Have you ever gone to the people living in rag tags and watched them: You will be amazed to find them smiling, laughing and making merry the same way rich people do. Do you think they are faking happiness? Well despite many hardships and difficulties of life, there is a degree of self contentment and they really value it. 

The same way, the riches do not mean a great amount of wealth or property, it is the riches of self-contentment that keeps the heart of a believer cool, light and happy. This self contentment comes from the humility and patience that Islam teaches him and he is contended for he knows this the best for him decided by Allah Almighty.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has always advised his companions to find solace and happiness in self contentment and feeling sufficiency in their soul. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 81: To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq) / كتاب الرقاق / Chapter 15:  True riches is self-contentment / باب الْغِنَى غِنَى النَّفْسِ / as Hadith 6446, given herein under:

Narrated  by Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 

"Wealth is not in having many possessions, but rather (true) wealth is feeling sufficiency in the soul."

حَدَّثَنَا أَحْمَدُ بْنُ يُونُسَ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرٍ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو حَصِينٍ، عَنْ أَبِي صَالِحٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ 

"‏ لَيْسَ الْغِنَى عَنْ كَثْرَةِ الْعَرَضِ، وَلَكِنَّ الْغِنَى غِنَى النَّفْسِ ‏"‏‏.

The hadith highlights the concept that true wealth is not measured by the accumulation of material goods or possessions, but by a sense of contentment, gratitude, and spiritual sufficiency within the heart.

In this hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is emphasizing that material wealth is not the key to happiness or true prosperity. While worldly possessions can provide comfort and security, they do not necessarily bring peace of mind or contentment. True wealth, according to this hadith, is an inner state of satisfaction and peace, where a person feels "sufficient" and does not constantly desire more or compare themselves with others.

This inner sufficiency is tied to a sense of gratitude, contentment with what one has, and trust in God's provision. A person with this type of wealth does not feel poor, even if they lack material goods, because their heart is at peace and they feel they have enough.

Connection to the Qur'an

This teaching aligns closely with various verses in the Qur'an that emphasize the importance of contentment, reliance on Allah (God), and the futility of chasing material wealth for its own sake.

• Gratitude and Sufficiency: Allah says in the Qur'an:

"And it is He who enriched you with wealth and children." (Qur'an 53:48)

This verse reminds us that wealth is a blessing from Allah. True enrichment is not just about material wealth, but about understanding and appreciating the spiritual abundance granted by God. A person who feels sufficient and content in their soul is rich because they recognize that Allah’s blessings are enough for them.

• Contentment with What We Have:

“Do not wish for what We have given to some of them (disbelievers) to enjoy. But [wish for] the reward of the Hereafter, which is better and more enduring.” (Qur'an 4:77)

This verse encourages believers not to covet the wealth or status of others, which can often lead to dissatisfaction. It reminds us that the rewards of the Hereafter are far greater and more lasting than any material possessions we might accumulate in this life. Contentment with what we have is an important virtue in Islam, and the desire for more worldly possessions should not overwhelm the heart.

• Relying on Allah’s Provision:

“And He found you poor and made [you] self-sufficient.” (Qur'an 93:8)

Allah reminds us that He is the One who provides for our needs. True wealth is in knowing that Allah will provide what is necessary, and that this sufficiency comes not from material possessions, but from Allah’s blessings. When one feels "sufficient in the soul," they are recognizing that their true wealth is in their reliance on God’s provision, rather than in the accumulation of possessions.

The Example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ):

The Prophet (ﷺ) himself exemplified this attitude of sufficiency. Despite his status, he lived simply and was content with whatever he had, trusting in Allah’s provision. In a famous hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “If you were to trust in Allah with true trust, He would provide for you as He provides for the birds: they go out hungry in the morning and return full in the evening.” (Tirmidhi)

This hadith beautifully illustrates the concept of relying on Allah and feeling sufficiency in the soul, trusting that whatever is meant for you will reach you, and that true wealth lies in contentment, not in material accumulation.

The hadith and the verses from the Qur'an together emphasize that material wealth is fleeting and that the real treasure is contentment, sufficiency, and peace of mind. The essence of wealth, as defined by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), is an inner state of sufficiency — feeling rich in the heart through trust in Allah’s provision, gratitude, and detachment from worldly desires. 

True believers should therefore believe that true prosperity is not in possessing more, but in feeling content with what one has and knowing that Allah’s plans for us are better than anything we could seek in this world.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

The Virtue of Planting and Cultivating (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Nature has always been greener with trees, jungles and grassy fields. With the passage of time and pave way for roads and railways and growing needs of expanding cities, the area under cultivation are being reduced, creating concerns among the environmentalists for deforestation is adding suffocation due to lack of oxygen emitted by trees and absorption of carbon, which injurious to health. Trees also filter harmful pollutants and trap dust, smoke, and particles to provide fresh and healthy breathable air. Trees also provide habitats for numerous species of birds, insects, and animals, besides regulating local and global ecosystems by stabilizing temperatures and rainfall patterns.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ cognizant of the value of trees and foliage, advised his companions to grow trees which in fact become a form of charity for the planters. 

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: (Book 22: The Book of Musaqah / كتاب المساقاة / Chapter 2:  The Virtue of Planting and Cultivating / باب فَضْلِ الْغَرْسِ وَالزَّرْعِ / as Hadith 1552a, given herein under:

Jabir (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

Never does a Muslim plants a tree except that he has the reward of charity for him, for what is eaten out of that is charity; what is stolen out of that, what the beasts eat out of that, what the birds eat out of that is charity for him. (In short) none incurs a loss to him but it becomes a charity on his part.

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ نُمَيْرٍ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبِي، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الْمَلِكِ، عَنْ عَطَاءٍ، عَنْ جَابِرٍ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ مَا مِنْ مُسْلِمٍ يَغْرِسُ غَرْسًا إِلاَّ كَانَ مَا أُكِلَ مِنْهُ لَهُ صَدَقَةٌ وَمَا سُرِقَ مِنْهُ لَهُ صَدَقَةٌ وَمَا أَكَلَ السَّبُعُ مِنْهُ فَهُوَ لَهُ صَدَقَةٌ وَمَا أَكَلَتِ الطَّيْرُ فَهُوَ لَهُ صَدَقَةً وَلاَ يَرْزَؤُهُ أَحَدٌ إِلاَّ كَانَ لَهُ صَدَقَةٌ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ 

* This Hadith is also quoted in Sahi Bokhari as Hadith number 2320

This hadith emphasizes the reward for acts of environmental stewardship and benefiting others, even indirectly. Planting a tree or cultivating crops is seen as an act of charity because it provides ongoing benefits to Allah’s creation—humans, animals, and nature.

Reference to the Quran

This teaching aligns with several Quranic themes, emphasizing kindness, charity, and the care of Allah's creation.

• Charity as an Act of Righteousness: The Quran repeatedly emphasizes that acts of charity are highly rewarded:

"Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity... it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward." (Surah Al-Hadid, 57:18)

By planting trees and benefiting others, a Muslim engages in Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), which continues to bring rewards as long as it provides benefits.

• Care for the Earth and Stewardship: The Quran teaches that humans are stewards (Khalifah) of the Earth and have a responsibility to care for it:

"He brought you forth from the earth and settled you in it. So ask forgiveness of Him and turn to Him in repentance. Indeed, my Lord is near and responsive." (Surah Hud, 11:61)

Planting trees and cultivating the earth aligns with this stewardship, ensuring the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.

• Reward for Benefiting Others: The Quran highlights the importance of benefiting others, even in small ways:

"Whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it." (Surah Az-Zalzalah, 99:7)

When a tree or plant provides food, shade, or shelter, it is a source of ongoing blessings and reward for the one who planted it.

• Kindness to All of Allah’s Creation: The Quran acknowledges the rights of all living beings, including animals and birds, as part of Allah’s creation:

"And there is no creature on [or within] the earth or bird that flies with its wings except [that they are] communities like you..." (Surah Al-An’am, 6:38)

Providing sustenance to creatures, whether intentionally or unintentionally, is an act of compassion and is rewarded in Islam.

Key Lessons from the Hadith and Quran

• Acts of Charity Are Diverse: Charity is not limited to financial contributions but includes any act that benefits others, such as planting trees or sowing seeds.

• Ongoing Rewards (Sadaqah Jariyah): Planting trees offers continuous rewards as long as they provide benefit, making it an enduring form of charity.

• Environmental Responsibility: Islam encourages the care of the environment, recognizing it as part of Allah’s trust to humanity.

• Kindness to All Creatures: The hadith and Quran both emphasize the importance of benefiting all of Allah’s creation—humans, animals, and even nature.

• Intentional and Unintentional Charity: The hadith shows that even unintended acts, such as birds or animals eating from plants, bring rewards.

This hadith beautifully encapsulates the Islamic values of charity, compassion, and environmental stewardship. It reflects the Quranic principles of benefiting others, caring for the Earth, and recognizing all living beings as part of Allah’s creation. 

Muslims are encouraged to see even small acts, like planting a tree, as significant contributions to the well-being of humanity and the environment, leading to immense rewards in this life and the Hereafter.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may also refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith: Sahi Bokhari | Sahi Muslim | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Envy is not justified but in case of two persons only (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Envy is an emotional state wherein a feeling of discontentment, resentfulness or longing develops due to someone else's possessions, qualities, or luck and desire to have a quality, possession, or other desirable thing belonging to (someone else). No matter how much control do we have over our emotional state, the eerie feeling crops up when we see someone doing better than us or is blessed more than us.

Envy is an emotion which occurs when a person lacks another's quality, skill, achievement, or possession and either desires it or wishes that the other lacked it. Envy can also refer to the wish for another person to lack something one already possesses so as to remove the equality of possession between both parties. (Wikipedia)

There is popular saying that the lawn of the neighbour is always greener. This feeling arises when when does not look at the blessings one has but always wanting to have better than others. Such feelings of discontentment and resentment often leaves with heartburns and may even lead to development of enmity with those doing better than us.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has strictly forbade this emotional state and has advised to be always contended for what one has been blessed with. However, he said that envy is justified only in two cases. 

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 6 The Book of Prayer - Travellers / كتاب صلاة المسافرين وقصرها /  Chapter 47: The virtue of one who acts in accordance with the Qur’an and teaches it. And the virtue of one who learns wisdom from Fiqh or other types of knowledge, then acts upon it and teaches it / باب فَضْلِ مَنْ يَقُومُ بِالْقُرْآنِ وَيُعَلِّمُهُ وَفَضْلِ مَنْ تَعَلَّمَ حِكْمَةً مِنْ فِقْهٍ أَوْ غَيْرِهِ فَعَمِلَ بِهَا وَعَلَّمَهَا / as Hadith number # 815a as under:

Salim narrated on the authority of his father (Ibn 'Umar) that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:

Envy is not justified but in case of two persons only: one who, having been given (knowledge of) the Qur'an by Allah, recites it during the night and day (and also acts upon it) and a man who, having been given wealth by God, spends it during the night and the day (for the welfare of others. seeking the pleasure of the Lord).

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، وَعَمْرٌو النَّاقِدُ، وَزُهَيْرُ بْنُ حَرْبٍ، كُلُّهُمْ عَنِ ابْنِ عُيَيْنَةَ، - قَالَ زُهَيْرٌ حَدَّثَنَا سُفْيَانُ بْنُ عُيَيْنَةَ، - حَدَّثَنَا الزُّهْرِيُّ، عَنْ سَالِمٍ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ لاَ حَسَدَ إِلاَّ فِي اثْنَتَيْنِ رَجُلٌ آتَاهُ اللَّهُ الْقُرْآنَ فَهُوَ يَقُومُ بِهِ آنَاءَ اللَّيْلِ وَآنَاءَ النَّهَارِ وَرَجُلٌ آتَاهُ اللَّهُ مَالاً فَهُوَ يُنْفِقُهُ آنَاءَ اللَّيْلِ وَآنَاءَ النَّهَارِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

The hadith about envy refers to the concept of "Ghibtah"—a positive form of envy in Islam, which does not involve wishing harm or deprivation to others but rather aspiring to attain similar blessings. 

Before we explain the Hadith, let us first understand two forms of envy:

• Ghibtah (Positive Envy): Wishing to attain similar blessings without desiring the loss of blessings from the other person.
• Hasad (Malicious Envy): Desiring the deprivation of someone else's blessings, which is prohibited.

As can be seen that it is Hasad (malicious envy) that is dangerous which germinates evil thoughts about others and is thus detested in Islam. On the contrary Ghibtah (Positive Envy) is the feeling of goodness for others and wishing them well without any heartburns, and a desire to be blessed with the same.

You may also like to read our previous post: Prophet Muhammad cautioned against Jealousy and Mutual Estrangement

Explanation in Light of the Quran

• Envy in General: The Quran warns against Hasad (malicious envy), where one desires the removal of blessings from others:

"And from the evil of the envier when he envies." (Surah Al-Falaq, 113:5)

Instead, believers are encouraged to appreciate Allah's blessings on others and strive for similar virtues in a righteous manner.

• Envy in Wealth Used for Good: The Quran emphasizes spending wealth for Allah's sake:

"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] that sprouts seven ears, each bearing a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261)

In this context, envy for a wealthy person who uses their resources to support charity, build mosques, or help the needy is praiseworthy because it inspires similar acts of righteousness.

• Envy in Knowledge of the Qur'an: The Quran highly values wisdom and knowledge, especially when it is shared:

"Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees." (Surah Al-Mujadilah, 58:11)

Envy for a scholar or someone who has mastered the Qur'an and shares it reflects admiration for their contribution to faith and society. This aligns with the Quranic encouragement to seek knowledge:

"Say, Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:9)

Key Lessons from the Hadith

• Two Ideal Aspirations:
• Wealth spent for righteous causes: A reminder to value wealth as a means of serving humanity and worshiping Allah.
• Knowledge acted upon and shared: Emphasizes the importance of not just learning but also teaching and living by divine wisdom.
• Aspirations for Good Deeds: The hadith encourages believers to compete in virtuous deeds, which aligns with the Quranic injunction: "So race to [all that is] good." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:148)

The hadith, thus, teaches that envy is only permissible when it leads to aspiring for virtues like generosity and knowledge. This aligns with the Quranic emphasis on pursuing good deeds, seeking knowledge, and spending wealth for righteous causes. It encourages Muslims to admire and emulate these qualities, fostering personal growth and societal benefit. And strive to develop these two qualities within so as to act as aspiration for others.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat for more Sunnah and Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad exclusive to As Salat.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page Etiquettes taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more etiquettes attributed to Prophet Muhammad.

You may refer to our reference: page: Supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more prophetic supplications

Please refer to our reference page: Oft asked Queries from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more Hadiths on the subject

For Hadiths on the subject, please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Sadaqah صدقة  / Voluntary Charity

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat - Prayers

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Collections of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Rewards for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ related to Muslim Women  for more Hadiths on the status of women in Islam.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadith e Qudsi (حدیثِ قُدسی) attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadith e Qudsi.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Hajj – the Fifth Pillar of Islam to know more about Hadiths related to Hajj.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Sabr / Patience to read more Hadiths on the subject.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to read more Sunnah attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Please refer to our reference page: Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Self-Reliance with Dignity and Value of Honest Labour to read more related Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

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Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Listening to the Quran with Reflection (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

All Divine Books are to be respected and listened to with complete reflection for these are the words of our Creator. While these are being read, therefore, one should be all ears to the recitation even if these are being recited in a language not understood by the listener. 

I once had the opportunity to attend a religious gathering of another religion where the Divine Book which they followed was being recited. To my utter surprise I found hardly anyone listening to the recitation and many were engrossed in gossiping and chatting with each other. The reciter a number of times asked the audience to keep silence as the word of God was being recited, but to no avail.

We Muslims are fortunate that we give due respect to Qur'an, the last of the four Divine Books, and whenever and wherever it is being recited, the audience ensure a pin drop silence. This is done to pay respect to the words of Allah and also to ensure trying to understand what is being recited, no matter how many times we have listened to it. This is done so that word of Allah is engrained into our brain and we do not forget it. In fact, listening to the Quran recited by someone else can often bring a new perspective and deeper reflection

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, upon whom Qur'an was revealed, would sometimes asked others to recite Qur'an to him, for he loved listening to Qur'an from others. This is reflective from a Hadith mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 65: Prophetic Commentary on the Qur'an (Tafseer of the Prophet (pbuh)) /كتاب التفسير/ Chapter 9:  "How (will it be) then when We bring from each nation a witness and We bring you (O Muhammad) as a witness against these people?" (V.4:41) / باب ‏{‏فَكَيْفَ إِذَا جِئْنَا مِنْ كُلِّ أُمَّةٍ بِشَهِيدٍ وَجِئْنَا بِكَ عَلَى هَؤُلاَءِ شَهِيدًا‏}‏) as Hadith 4582, given herein under:

Narrated by `Abdullah bin Masud:

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said to me, "Recite (of the Qur'an) for me," I said, "Shall I recite it to you although it had been revealed to you?" He said, "I like to hear (the Qur'an) from others." So I recited Surat-an- Nisa' till I reached: "How (will it be) then when We bring from each nation a witness, and We bring you (O Muhammad) as a witness against these people?" (4.41) Then he said, "Stop!" And behold, his eyes were overflowing with tears."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا صَدَقَةُ، أَخْبَرَنَا يَحْيَى، عَنْ سُفْيَانَ، عَنْ سُلَيْمَانَ، عَنْ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، عَنْ عَبِيدَةَ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، قَالَ يَحْيَى بَعْضُ الْحَدِيثِ عَنْ عَمْرِو بْنِ مُرَّةَ، قَالَ قَالَ لِي النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏"‏ اقْرَأْ عَلَىَّ ‏"‏‏.‏ قُلْتُ آقْرَأُ عَلَيْكَ وَعَلَيْكَ أُنْزِلَ قَالَ ‏"‏ فَإِنِّي أُحِبُّ أَنْ أَسْمَعَهُ مِنْ غَيْرِي ‏"‏‏.‏ فَقَرَأْتُ عَلَيْهِ سُورَةَ النِّسَاءِ حَتَّى بَلَغْتُ ‏{‏فَكَيْفَ إِذَا جِئْنَا مِنْ كُلِّ أُمَّةٍ بِشَهِيدٍ وَجِئْنَا بِكَ عَلَى هَؤُلاَءِ شَهِيدًا‏}‏ قَالَ ‏"‏ أَمْسِكْ ‏"‏‏.‏ فَإِذَا عَيْنَاهُ تَذْرِفَانِ‏.

Let us explain this Hadith in light of the Quran

• Listening to the Quran with Reflection: The Prophet (ﷺ) requested Abdullah bin Mas'ud to recite the Quran so he could listen to it, showing the importance of reflecting on the Quran's message, even for those deeply familiar with it. The Quran itself encourages listening attentively:

"So when the Qur'an is recited, then listen to it and pay attention that you may receive mercy." (Surah Al-A'raf, 7:204)

The Prophet's emotional response demonstrates how deeply the Quran’s words can impact the heart of a believer when listened to with sincerity.

• Surah An-Nisa (4:41): Accountability and Witnessing: The verse recited by Abdullah bin Mas'ud speaks of the Day of Judgment:

"How (will it be) then, when We bring from every nation a witness, and We bring you, [O Muhammad], as a witness against these people?" (Surah An-Nisa, 4:41)

This verse highlights the Prophet’s role as a witness over his people. His tears reflect the weight of responsibility he felt as a messenger, knowing that he would testify about how his community responded to Allah’s message. The Quran repeatedly reminds believers of the seriousness of accountability:

"So by your Lord, We will surely question them all about what they used to do." (Surah Al-Hijr, 15:92-93)

• The Prophet’s Emotional Connection to the Quran: The Prophet (ﷺ) was deeply moved by the Quran because he internalized its guidance and warnings. Allah describes the Quran as something that profoundly affects those who listen to it with open hearts:

"Indeed, the believers are those who, when Allah is mentioned, their hearts tremble, and when His verses are recited to them, it increases them in faith; and upon their Lord, they rely." (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:2)

His tears serve as an example for believers to reflect deeply on the Quran’s message and feel its spiritual weight.

• The Importance of Witnessing: The Prophet (ﷺ) being a witness over his people is consistent with his role as the bearer of the final message. The Quran confirms this responsibility:

"And We have sent you, [O Muhammad], as a bringer of good tidings and a warner and a witness over mankind." (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:45)

This witnessing includes delivering the message, living by it, and ensuring it is understood. His tears signify his concern for his followers and his realization of the gravity of this role.

• The Impact of Quranic Recitation: The act of listening to the Quran recited by someone else can often bring a new perspective and deeper reflection. The Quran is described as having a transformative effect on those who approach it sincerely:

"Allah has sent down the best statement: a consistent Book wherein is reiteration. The skins shiver therefrom of those who fear their Lord; then their skins and their hearts relax at the remembrance of Allah." (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:23)

The Prophet’s example shows that even those who know the Quran deeply benefit from listening to others recite it, emphasizing the communal nature of engaging with the Quran.

Lessons from the Hadith

• Reflective Listening: Even those familiar with the Quran benefit from hearing its recitation, which fosters deeper understanding and emotional connection.
• Seriousness of Accountability: The Prophet’s tears reflect the gravity of standing as a witness before Allah, reminding believers of their responsibility toward Allah’s commands.
• The Quran’s Impact: The Quran’s words have the power to move hearts and inspire humility, emphasizing the importance of engaging with it regularly and sincerely.
• The Prophet’s Empathy: His emotional response highlights his deep concern for his followers and the weight of his prophetic mission.

This hadith underscores the profound spiritual connection to the Quran and the importance of reflecting on its message. It also highlights the serious responsibility the Prophet (ﷺ) bore as a witness over his community, as emphasized in the Quran. The emotional and transformative power of the Quran serves as a reminder for believers to engage with it sincerely, allowing it to guide their hearts and actions.

Let us always be attentive when Qur'an is being read in our presence. It has been seen tears overflowing even from the eyes of non Muslims when listening to Qur'an. This is because these words are Divine words and have an intrinsic relation with our heart and mind.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More