Islam and Wealth: Between Spirituality and Prosperity

Money is a test.In the Islamic worldview, wealth is neither a taboo nor an obsession. It is a ni’ma (blessing) that can elevate or destroy a person, depending on how it is earned, managed, and shared.

A luxurious home with high-end cars and security represents material wealth, prompting reflection on the Islamic perspective of balancing prosperity with responsibility and ethical use.

1. Islam Does Not Demonize Wealth

Contrary to popular belief, Islam has never promoted poverty as the only path to paradise. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself had means, yet lived with simplicity and generosity.

He said:

“There is nothing wrong with being wealthy for one who fears Allah.”(Tirmidhi)

Wealth becomes a virtue when it is halal (lawful), ethical, and used for good.

2. Zakat: Purifying Wealth and the Soul

Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a spiritual tax of 2.5% taken annually on savings above a certain threshold.But zakat is not mere redistribution — it's a purification.

• It purifies the soul from greed.

• It purifies wealth from the stains of attachment and excess.

• It ensures social justice — no one is forgotten.

By giving zakat, the Muslim frees themselves from selfishness and contributes to economic balance in the community.

3. Islamic Finance: Clear and Ethical Guidelines

Islam introduced modern financial principles long before contemporary banking systems:

Prohibition of Riba (Usury)

“Those who consume usury will not stand [on Judgment Day] except like the one beaten by Satan into madness.”(Qur'an 2:275)

Money must not generate more money without effort or shared risk. Usury is forbidden because it profits from the neediness of the poor.

Encouragement of Ethical Trade (Mudarabah, Musharakah)

Investment is encouraged, but with risk and profit sharing. It is a partnership, not debt-based exploitation.

Prohibition of Excessive Speculation (Gharar)

Islam forbids ambiguous, dishonest, or unjust transactions, promoting a transparent and trustworthy economy.

4. Seeking Livelihood Is a Form of Worship

“No one earns a better living than what he earns with his own hands.”(Bukhari)

Work and entrepreneurship are not only encouraged in Islam — they are seen as acts of faith.Every lawful effort is rewarded, even if it doesn’t lead to great wealth.

The Muslim is invited to be productive, reliable, and beneficial to society, while remaining humble and thankful.

5. Barakah: The Invisible Wealth

In Islam, barakah (blessing) is more valuable than quantity.

A modest salary with barakah can support a family, build a home, and feed orphans.A million without barakah can disappear through waste and isolation.

Barakah flows from:

• Sincere intention (niyyah)

• Lawful earnings (halal)

• Generosity and charity

• Remembering Allah in one’s financial dealings

  
  

6. Money as a Tool… Not a Master

The Prophet ﷺ warned:

“Woe to the slave of the dinar, the dirham, and luxurious clothes.”(Bukhari)

Wealth is not the problem — materialism is.When man becomes a slave to money, he sells his faith, his integrity, and even his family.

The wealthiest companions…

• Abdur-Rahman Ibn Awf

• Uthman Ibn Affan…were also among the most generous, humble, and discreet.

  
  

Conclusion: Being Rich in Islam Means Being Responsible

Islam offers a balanced view:

• Seek wealth through halal means

• Manage it with faith and wisdom

• Share it to build a just society

  
  

  “Whoever makes the Hereafter his concern, Allah places richness in his heart, brings his affairs together, and the world comes to him submissively.”(Tirmidhi)