If and when you are wealthy, be like Abdur-Rahman bin Auf RA...

My eyes cannot stop to water when I compiled this. But here you go...


Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA was one of the first eight persons to accept Islam. Abdur-Rahman RA embraced Islam before the Prophet SAW entered the house of Al-Arqam. In fact it is said that he accepted Islam only two days after Abu Bakr As-Siddiq RA did so.

He was one of the ten persons (Al-Asharatul-Mubasharah) who Rasulullah SAW assured of entering Paradise even when he was alive. He was one of the six persons chosen by Umar RA to form the council of shura to choose the Khalifah after his death.

During the days of ignorance, Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA's name was Abu Amr. But when he accepted Islam the Noble Prophet called him "Abdur-Rahman" - "The Servant of the Beneficent".

Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA did not escape the punishment which the early Muslims suffered at the hands of the Quraysh. He bore this punishment with steadfastness, patience and perseverance as the other Muslims did. He remained firm in his faith. And when they were compelled to leave Makkah for Abyssinia because of the continuous and unbearable persecution, Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA also went. He returned to Makkah when it was rumoured that conditions for the Muslims had improved, bun when these rumours proved to be false, he left again for Abyssinia for the second hijrah to Abyssinia. Then, from Makkah, once again he made the Hijrah to Madinah.

Soon after arriving in Madinah, the Prophet SAW in his unique manner began pairing off the Muhajirin and the Ansar. This established a firm bond of brotherhood and served to strengthen the social cohesion and ease the destitution of the Muhajirin. Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA was linked by the Prophet with Sa'd ibn Ar-Rabi'ah RA. Sa'd RA in the spirit of generosity and magnanimity with which the Ansar greeted the Muhajirin, said to Abdur-Rahman RA:

"My brother! Among the people of Madinah I have the most wealth. I have two orchards and I have two wives. See which of the two orchards you like and I shall vacate it for you and which of my two wives is pleasing to you and I will divorce her for you."

Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA must have been embarrassed and said in reply:

"May Allah bless you in your family and your wealth. But just show me where the suq (market-place) is."

Abdur-Rahman RA went to the market-place and began trading with whatever little resources he had. He bought and sold and his profits grew rapidly. Soon he was sufficiently well off and was able to get married. He went to the noble Prophet SAW with the scent of perfume lingering over him.

"Mahyam, O Abdur-Rahman!" - exclaimed the Prophet SAW - "mahyam" being a word of Yemeni origin which indicates pleasant surprise.

"I have gotten married" - replied Abdur-Rahman RA.

"And what did you give your wife as mahr?" - asked the Prophet Muhammad SAW.

"The weight of a nuwat in gold." - he responded.

"You must have a walimah (wedding feast) even if it is with a single sheep. And may Allah bless you in your wealth" - said the Prophet SAW with obvious pleasure and encouragement.

Thereafter Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA grew so accustomed to business success that he said if he lifted a stone he expected to find gold or silver under it!

Abdur-Rahman RA distinguished himself in both the battles of Badr and Uhud. At Uhud he remained strong throughout and suffered more than twenty wounds, some of them deep and severe. On top of this, his physical jihad was matched by his jihad with his wealth.

Once the Prophet SAW was preparing to despatch an expeditionary force. He summoned his Companions RA and said:

"Contribute sadaqah for I want to despatch an expedition."

Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA went to his house and quickly returned.

"O Messenger of Allah, I have four thousand (dinars). I give two thousand as a qard to my Lord and two thousand I leave for my family. " - he said.

When the Prophet SAW decided to send an expedition for Tabuk - this was the last ghazwah (battle) of his life (SAW) that he mounted; and his need for finance and material was not greater than his need for men, for the Byzantine forces were a numerous and well-equipped foe. That year in Madinah was one of drought and hardship. The journey to Tabuk was long, more that a thousand kilometers. Provisions were in short supply. Transport was at a premium so much so that a group of Muslims came to the Prophet SAW pleading to go wit h him but he had to turn them away because he could find no transport for them. These men were sad and dejected and came to be known as the Bakka'in or the Weepers and the army itself was called the Army of Hardship ('Usrah).

Thereupon the Prophet SAW called upon his Companions RA to give generously for the effort in the path of Allah and assured them that they would be rewarded. The Muslims' response to the Prophet SAW's call was immediate and generous. In the forefront of those who responded was Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA. He donated two hundred uqiyyah of gold whereupon Umar ibn al-Khattab RA said to the Prophet SAW:

"I have (now) seen Abdur-Rahman committing a wrong. He has not left anything for his family."

"Have you left anything for your family, Abdur-Rahman?" - asked the Prophet SAW.

"Yes" - replied Abdur-Rahman RA.

"I have left for them more than what I give and better." - he said.

"How much?" - enquired the Prophet Muhammad SAW.

"What Allah and His Messenger have promised of sustenance, goodness and reward" - replied Abdur-Rahman RA.

The Muslim army eventually left for Tabuk. There Abdur-Rahman RA was blessed with an honour which was not conferred on anyone till then. The time of Solat came and the Prophet SAW was not there at the time. The Muslims chose Abdur-Rahman RA as their Imam. The first raka'at of the Solat was almost completed when the Prophet SAW joined the worshippers and performed the Solat behind Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf RA. Could there be a greater honour conferred on anyone than to have been given this privilege?

When the Prophet Muhammad SAW passed away, Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf RA took on the responsibility of looking after the needs of his family, the Ummahaat al-Muminin. He would go with them wherever they wanted to and he even performed Hajj with them to ensure that all their needs were met. This is a sign of the trust and confidence which he enjoyed on the part of the Prophet SAW's family.

Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf's support for the Muslims and the Prophet SAW's wives in particular was well-known. Once he sold a piece of land for forty thousand dinars and he distributed the entire amount among the Banu Zahrah (the relatives of the Prophet SAW's mother Aminah), the poor among the Muslims and the Prophet SAW's wives. When Aishah RA received some of this money she asked:

"Who has sent this money?"

When she was told that it was Abdur-Rahman RA, she said:

"Rasulullah SAW said: No one will feel compassion towards you after I die except the Sabirin (those who are patient and resolute)."

The prayer of the Noble Prophet SAW i.e. that Allah should bestow barakah on the wealth of Abdur-Rahman RA appeared to be with Abdur-Rahman RA throughout his life. He became the richest man among the Companions of the Prophet SAW. His business transactions invariably met with success and his wealth continued to grow. His trading caravans to and from Madinah grew larger and larger bringing to the people of Madinah - wheat, flour, butter, cloths, utensils, perfume and whatever else that was needed and exporting whatever surplus produce they had.

One day, a loud rumbling sound was heard coming from beyond the boundaries of Madinah, which was normally a calm and peaceful city. The rumbling sound gradually increased in volume. In addition, clouds of dust and sand were stirred up and blown in the wind. The peo ple of Madinah soon realised that a mighty caravan was entering the city. They stood in amazement as seven hundred camels laden with goods moved into the city and crowded the streets. There was much shouting and excitement as people called to one another to come out and witness the sight and see what goods and sustenance the camel caravan had brought.

Aishah RA, heard the commotion and asked:

"What is this that's happening in Madinah?"

Someone told her

"It is the caravan of Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf RA which has come from Syria bearing his merchandise."

"A caravan making all this commotion?" - Aishah RA asked in disbelief.

"Yes, O Umm-ul-Muminin. There are seven hundred camels." - was the response.


Aishah RA shook her head and gazed in the distance as if she was trying to recall some scene or utterance of the past; and then she said:

"I have heard Rasulullah SAW say: I have seen Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf entering Paradise creeping."

Thus people were astounded by this remark. Why creeping? Why should he not enter Paradise leaping and at a quick pace with the early Companions of the Prophet SAW?

Some friends of his related to Abdur-Rahman bin Awf RA the hadith which Aishah had mentioned. Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf RA remembered that he had heard the Hadith more than once from the Prophet SAW. He then hurried to the house of Aishah RA and said to her:

"Yaa Ammah! (Mother) Have you heard that from Rasulullah SAW? - Abdur-Rahman RA asked Aishah RA.

"Yes" - replied Aishah RA.

"You have reminded me of a Hadith which I have never forgotten" - remarked Abdur-Rahman RA.

Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf RA is also reported to have been so overjoyed and added:

"If I could, I would certainly like to enter Paradise standing. I swear to you, yaa Ammah, that this entire caravan with all its merchandise, I will giver Sabilillah (in the path of Allah)."

And so he did.

In a great festival of charity and righteousness, he distributed all that the massive caravan had brought to the people of Madinah and surrounding areas.

This is just one incident which showed what type of man Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf RA was.

He earned so much wealth but he never remained attached to it for its own sake and he did not allow it to corrupt him.

Abdur-Rahmanibn Awf RA's generosity did not stop there.

He continued giving with both his hands, secretly and openly. Some of the figures mentioned are truly astounding:

- forty thousand dirhams of silver,

- forty thousand dinars of gold,

- two hundred uqiyyah of gold,

- five hundred horses to the mujahidin setting out in the path of Allah,

- one thousand five hundred camels to another group of mujahidin,

- four hundred dinars of gold to the survivors of Badr

- a large legacy to the Ummahat-ul-Mu'minin

...and the catalogue goes on.

On account of this fabulous generosity, Aishah RA also said:

"May Allah give him to drink from the water of Salsabil (a spring in Paradise)."

All this wealth did not corrupt Abdur-Rahman in Awf RA and did not change him. When he was among his workers and assistants, people could not distinguish him from them. One day food was brought to him with which to end a fast.

He looked at the food and said:

"Musab ibn Umayr (RA) has been killed. He was better than me. We did not find anything of his to shroud him with except what covered his head but left his legs uncovered. Then Allah endowed us with the (bounties of) the world. I really fear that our rewards has been bestowed on us early (in this world)." - He began to cry and sob and could not eat.

May Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf RA be granted felicity among those who are mentioned in the Qur'an:

"Those who spend their substance in the cause of Allah and follow up not their gifts with reminders of their generosity or with injury. For them their reward is with their Lord, on them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve". (The Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah: Ayat 262)

Ameen - Ameen - Ameen.

Is It Okay To Be Wealthy ? - Part II

Let us expand this discussion, InshaAllah. Hopefully the first post has helped us to realign our thoughts, and inculcate eagerness in ourselves to learn how to perform things correctly; and live our lives correctly, InshaAllah.

The Income and Expenditure of a True Muslim

Ways and means of income, earning one's livelihood and spending such income should conform with the Shari'ah.

Abdullah ibn Mas'ud RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW said:

"On the Day of Qiyamah no one will be able to move (on the occasion of the Hisab / Reckoning) until a reckoning of five things has been taken..." (Riwayat Tirmidhi)

Among the 'five things' mentioned in the above Hadith, two questions pertain to income and expenditure.

One will be asked:

"How did you earn your living and how did you spend your income?"

Earnings and expenses are also matters controlled and regulated by the Deen. Thus, in this aspect too, there should be no contraventions of the Shari'ah. Income must not be derived by unlawful means e.g. riba, dealing in unlawful items, usurping the rights of others, cheating, defrauding, withholding the inheritance of any one, etc.

Many people violate the Shari'ah Laws of Inheritance and deprive the rightful heirs of their Islamic share of the inheritance. In this way the usurpers add to their income, what is Haraam and what does not belong to them.


Ignoring More Important Things

Among the ways of earning which conflict with the Deen, is to become so intensively involved in trade and commerce, to such an extent that even Solat is neglected, Akhirah is forgotten, Zakat is not discharged, Hajj is not performed, and no time remains for one to acquire the essential teachings of the Deen.

One should not become so involved that there remains no time to sit in the company of the scholars and the pious, and to learn from them the essentials of the Deen. Association with the pious is an important requirement for the spiritual progress of a Muslim. This facet of live should, therefore, never be neglected.


Correct Spending and Wrong Spending

Income should not be expended in such ways, avenues and practices which are condemned by Deen. Extravagance, spending in customs which have no sanction in the Shari'ah, spending for the sake of gaining name, spending in unnecessary luxuries - luxuries which are far in excess of one's needs, etc. are all evil ways which bring about ruin in both mundane and spiritual life.


What Are The Core Rules for Accummulating Wealth ?

There is nothing wrong with earning and accumulating wealth provided that one abstains from extravagance, Haraam and all ways and means unlawful in Islam. Wealth should be used constructively for one's own benefit as well as for the benefit of others and for rendering service to Deen. There are a variety of Deeni activities which require wealth. Therefore, a man of wealth can obtain great reward by earning and employing wealth in accordance with the Shari'ah. Aiding the poor and needy, contributing to Deeni projects such as mosques, madrasahs, works of da'wah and tabligh, etc. are wonderful channels in which to employ wealth and thereby build up one's capital in the Akhirah.

Abdullah RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW said:

"The seeking of a Halal earning is the (next) Fardh (obligatory duty) after the Fardh (Solat)." (Riwayat Baihaqi)


Abu Khimari RA narrates a lengthy Hadith in which Rasulullah SAW said:

"The world is for four (types) of persons. (One among the four) is a man whom Allah granted wealth as well as understanding of the Deen. He fears his Rabb and is kind (and renders service) to his relatives. And, in regard to the wealth he follows the commands of Allah and discharges rights. The man is the noblest..." (Riwayat Tirmidhi)


Abu Saeed RA narrates a lengthy Hadith, whereby Rasulullah SAW said:

"Wealth is an object of pleasure. Wealth acquired in a rightful way (in accordance with the Shari'ah) and spent in a rightful way will be an aid for its owner." (Riwayat Bukhari & Muslim)


Amr ibn Al-Aas RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW said:

"Wholesome (pure) wealth for a noble person is good." (Riwayat Ahmad ibn Hanbal)


AN IMPORTANT ADVICE WHICH MUST NOT BE MISUNDERSTOOD NOR ABUSED

According to Sufyaan Thauri RA, wealth during the time of the Companions of the Prophet Muhammad SAW was not preferable since their hearts were ennobled with strong Imaan. Since they possessed a very strong Imaan there was no need for them to seek strength and confidence in wealth. In view of the evils normally attendant to wealth, the Sahabah RA and the early Muslims refrained from its acquisition.

However, now wealth has become the shield of a Mu'min. Since Imaan is no longer as strong as it was during former times, poverty creates worry and frustration in people. The result is deterioration in the worldly and spiritual conditions of Muslims as they no longer are able to stand up to the rigours of poverty, they compromise their Deen for worldly comforts.

If we did not have wealth, the wealthy worldly people (those puffed up with pride) would have despised us, held us in contempt and trampled over us in any way they wished. Thus, whoever is in possession of wealth should increase it and not squander it because in this age the first thing which win suffer in the event of poverty and want is one's Deen. Since people, on account of weakness of Imaan, are no longer capable of enduring the rigours of poverty, they compromise their Deen for worldly comforts.

Lesson:

Thus, collaborating with the previous paragraphs - a true wealthy pious slave of Allah will have immense wealth but will fully use this wealth for the purpose of Deen. He will not use this wealth for extravagance and needless wants and desires. He himself will live simple but will toil to obtain wealth for the service of Deen, and he will not ignore his Deeni obligations as well as give substantial time to learn and improve his Deeni knowledge and practices. In short, everything that he has earned and spent will go through an honourable Hisaab (reckoning) on the Day of Judgement. Such people are of the likes of Uthman bin Affan RA, Talha bin Ubaidullah RA, Abdurrahman bin Auf RA and Umar bin Abdul Aziz RA.


Acquiring Excellent and Noble Qualities Of Wealthy Muslims


Abu Saeed RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW said:

"An honest and upright trader will be with the Ambiya, Siddiqeen and Shuhadaa (on the Day of Qiyamah)." (Riwayat Tirmidhi)

The great significance of lawful trade is stated in this Hadith. The lawful trader who is honest and upright will enjoy the association of the Ambiya, Saints and Martyrs in the Hereafter.


Lawful Earning & The Nobility of Manual Works

Miqdam bin Ma'di Karuba RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW said:

"The noblest food ate by one is that from his (lawful) labour. (The prophet) Dawud (AS) ate from the labour of his hands." (Riwayat Bukhari)


Islam teaches the nobility and dignity of work and labour. The Ahadith explain much significance of labour. the Prophet Dawud AS earned his living by making armour. However, this significance applies to only such occupations which are in accordance with the teachings of Shari'ah. Haraam forms of labour and occupations, are Haraam forms of earning. The proceeds from unlawful occupations are likewise unlawful.

Abu Hurairah RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW said:

"There was not a Nabi who was not sent as a shepherd."

The Sahabah RA asked:

"You also tended to sheep?"

Rasulullah SAW replied:

"I tended the goats of the people of Makkah." (Riwayat Bukhari)

This Hadith too asserts the significance of manual labour.

The Prophets AS were shepherds who would look after the sheep and goats of people. The Prophet Musa AS remained a shepherd, and tended the goats and sheep of The Prophet Shu'aib AS for eight or ten years. (Riwayat Ahmad & Ibn Majah)

The episode of Musa AS being a shepherd is narrated in the Holy Qur'an as well. This again brings out the significance of manual labour.


Hiring Land

Thaabit ibn Dhuhak RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW permitted hiring out of land. Income derived from land and property hiring is also a lawful occupation in Islam as this Hadith indicates.


Farming

Among the noble ways of earning is farming. Much significance of farming has been mentioned in Ahadith. Anas bin Malik RA narrates that Rasullah SAW said that if any man, animal or bird eats from any tree or farm planted by a Muslim, its owner obtains the reward of Sadaqah thereby.


Not Expecting From Others

Anas bin Malik RA narrating a lengthy Hadith says that a man from among the Ansar came to Rasulullah SAW and requested something. Rasulullah SAW sent someone to bring a mug and a mat from one house. These items RasuluHah SAW auctioned among the Sahabah RA. With the money obtained for the items Rasulullah SAW bought some food and an axe. Giving these to the Ansari, Rasulullah (SAW) said: "Go (to the forest), cut wood and see it. This is better for you than begging which will be a blot of disgrace on your face (on the Day of Qiyamah)." (Riwayat Abu Dawud & Ibn Majah)

This Hadith establishes that a lawful occupation, no matter how menial and inferior, is better than begging.

Abdullah ibn Umar RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW said:

"Allah Ta'ala loves a Mu'min who engages himself in lawful means of earning a living." (Riwayat Tabrani & Baihaqi)


Saving Money

It is a person's own interests that he saves up some money to ward off worry and despondency. It is a fact that most people are not able to undergo hardship. When in need of money, they resort to practices which are unlawful and adopt Haraam measures to obtain money in order to satisfy their needs. It is therefore necessary to abstain from waste and at the same time save up money. According to a Hadith, even Rasulullah SAW would give his wives expenses at one time for the whole year. Rasulullah SAW also advised the Sahabah RA to retain some wealth as this is better for peace of mind. This was specifically stated by Rasulullah SAW to Ka'ab Ibn Malik (RA) who had expressed his desire to contribute all his wealth in the path of Allah Ta'ala.


Islam Detests Being Lazy

In one Hadith, Abdullah ibn Mas'ud RA narrates that Rasulullah SAW said:

"I detest a man who is useless. He is neither engaged in any worldly activity nor any Akhirah activity." (Riwayat Ahmad & Baihaqi)

Indolence and inactivity are detestable attributes. A man who is not engaged in Deeni work should involve himself in some lawful worldly activity and earn his livelihood. He should not remain idle and waste away his life. On the other hand, those fully involved in Deeni activities, should repose their trust in Allah Ta'ala. He is the Provider. He will most certainly provide for them. Workers of the Deen should not in the least be worried in regard to their Rizq.


THE EVIL OF EXTRAVAGANCE

Extravagance or waste is evil. The Shari'ah prohibits waste.

Allah Ta'ala states in the Holy Qur'an:

"Do not waste. Verily, the wasters are the brothers of Shaytaan."

How do we define extravagance? Let's take the case of a man who has many books. He has so many books that he needs to buy a shelf. He then visits the furniture shop and sees the various types of shelves in display. There is a cheap one that looks of low quality, there is a sturdy one which is quite expensive, and there is another sturdy one which has been minted with glossy decarations and an array of elaborate timber art. The posh shelf is twice more expensive than the sturdy one. Thus - if that man buys for the reason of quality, then the first sturdy shelf would not be regarded as being extravagant. But paying double just for artistic value would be extravagance, as that money could be used for charitable Islamic causes.

There may be people who may argue that the third shelf is also permissible to buy; and yes, indeed we will not argue on this point; but the reckoning will be more severe in the Hereafter. Those who are endowed with the conscience of what he will have to endure on the Day of Judgement will not risk the unnecessary for endless bliss in Paradise. A simple rule of thumb to adhere to in our lives is to be ever-conscious that- for Haraam things, there will be Azab (punishment); and for Halal things, there will be Hisab (reckoning).


Moderation - The Middle Route - The Easy Route

In the strife for piety, many Muslims find it difficult to define what is best for them. Sometimes, it may get so confusing that people see things in one extreme or the other.

The Companions RA of the Prophet Muhammad SAW - Anas Abu Umamah RA, Ibn Abbas RA and Ali RA narrate that Rasulullah SAW said:

"Walk along the middle path."

This means the adoption of moderation. Moderation in spending is the instruction of Islam. Spend only when necessary. If people are moderate in expenditure and abstain from extravagance, they will never be dependent on others. They will not be forced to ask others, thereby bringing disgrace upon themselves. Overspending and carelessness towards budgeting one's income lead to debt which in turns brings disgrace, worry and frustration. People are financially ruined and along with such worldly ruin comes spiritual ruin as well.

Among the worst of calamities is debt, especially if one has no means of paying the debts. Rasulullah SAW has sounded dire warnings in regard to unpaid debt. Even martyrdom is no absolution for debt. A Shaheed (martyr) will be forgiven of all his sins, but his debts will still remain. Debt will be demanded even in the Akhirah.

In this regard, Rasulullah SAW said:

"I take oath by That Being in Whose possession is my life - that the man who is in debt will not enter Jannah (Paradise) even if he is martyred (in the Path of Allah); then is resurrected and again martyred; then again is resurrected and again martyred. He will not enter (Jannah) until his debt is paid." (As narrated by Targheeb, Nimbi, Tabrani and Hakim)

However, there are exceptions.

If the debt was incurred on account of a real need and one has the intention of paying and at the same tone makes effort to pay, then the warning stated in the above Hadith will not apply to such debt. In such cases, even if the debt remained unpaid Allah Ta'ala will settle the rights of the creditors on behalf of the sincere debtor who was genuinely unable to pay.

So to conclude:

1. Wealth acquired lawfully and spent in accordance with the Shari'ah is indeed a bounty from Allah Almighty.

2. Wealth becomes an evil when it is acquired and expended in contravention of the Shari'ah.

3. When wealth (including wives and children) impedes one's spiritual development and interfere with one's Deeni life, then indeed - wealth will be an evil.

4. A Mu'min should make use of the bounties of Allah Ta'ala like an obedient slave who follows the order of his Master; and not like a hedonist, whose aim in life is only to satisfy his desires and wants.

Is It Okay To Be Wealthy ? - Part I

To start with, let us begin with some encouraging words from Hadith.

Abu Hurairah RA reports that Rasulullah SAW said:

"Strive in the path of Allah, you will acquire booty (wealth); observe the fast, you will attain good health; and travel, you will become wealthy."

This Hadith has been recorded by Imam Tabrani RA, Hafiz Mundhiri RA as well as Hafiz Al-Haythami RA. These scholars have classified all it's narrators as reliable.


HOW A MUSLIM SHOULD LIVE IN THIS WORLD

Allah Ta'ala is the Creator and Sustainer of this world and everything that is found in this world. Allah has sent us to this world to test us; and depending on how we live in this world will be the results in the Hereafter. Simple.

All the material aspects of this world e.g. car, house, business, etc. have been created in order for us to pass our temporary life in this world, hence, a necessity that is restricted to the world only. Shari'ah has allowed us to use all the permissible aspects of the world as long as it does not become a hindrance and obstacle for the Deen of Allah. In fact, it would be preferable to make use of these means if it would be promoting and assisting the cause of Deen.

Also, there is no harm in using any of the luxuries of this world if Allah has provided them for ourselves. However, these should not become the priorities of our life and the love of these should not enter our hearts. Preference should always be given to Deen.

Hence, we should reflect on the reality of our worldly possessions.

Nabi Muhammad SAW said:

"When a person dies, then three things accompany him - his wealth, his family and his actions. Two of these return to the world and only one of these accompany him to the everlasting journey from the grave onwards; and that is - his actions."

Delusions Of The Wealthy

The deluded among the wealthy are of various types.

For Show

Some of them eagerly build mosques, schools, hospices, aqueducts, whatever people can see, and write their names upon them to perpetuate their memory and keep it alive after their death. On the other hand, if one of them were called upon to spend a single penny on something that did not have his name on it, it would be a burden for him. If not for the fact that this aim is other people and not Allah Himself, this would not be so hard for him, as Allah is looking at him whether he writes his name or not. So when we perform any good deed, it should be for Allah's Pleasure alone.


Unlawful Spending, Unlawful Sources

Others spend money embellishing mosques with ornamentation and decoration etc, which are prohibited by Sacred Law and distracting to the people praying in them. The aim in prayer is humble awe and an attentive heart, while this ornamentation / decoration spoils the hearts of those praying. And if the money spent on such things is from an unlawful source to begin with, so much greater the delusion.

We should revere mosques, by seeing them as defiled by our entering them with our self as bad as it is, an affront to them; not by seeing to their defilement with the unlawful and with this-worldly embellishment, trying to outdo Allah Most High. The delusion of someone who does this is in thinking the wrong to be right.


Greed

Continuing with the delusions of the wealthy, others protect their money, holding fast to it with the tight fist of greed, and then occupy themselves with bodily works of worship that do not cost much, like fasting, prayer, or reciting the whole Qur'an. They are deluded, for stinginess is deadly and has taken over their heart. They need to rid themselves of if by spending of their wealth, but are too busy with supererogatory works to do so. They are like someone who, when a snake has entered his clothes, sets about cooking up a syrup of vinegar and honey to reduce his bile.


Zakat Only & Expectations For The Good Done

There are others whose selfishness will not let them give anything but zakat. One of them may pay out the worst property he has, or give it to those of the poor who are useful to him, to whom he may have use for in the future or is "good for something'' in particular. Another may deliver his zakat to a prominent public figure so he will consider him to be someone and later fulfill his needs. And all of this invalidates the intention, the person who does it being deluded by wanting recompense from others for worshiping Allah Most High.


Heart Warming Deceit

Some wealthy people and others are deluded by frequenting circles of zikr (remembrance of Allah), thinking that merely attending them will take the place of works and of a sober look at the Afterlife, though it is not so, for circles of zikr are only' commendable in that they motivate one to do good. And anything that is a means to something else is pointless if it does no achieve it. When one of them hears something that creates fear of Divine Punishment, he says nothing more than, "O Protector, keep us safe", or "I take refuge in Allah", 'thinking he has done all that is necessary. He is like a sick person who comes to a group of doctors to hear what is happening. Or a hungry person who visits someone who can describe delicious food to him, and then leaves. It does not do him much good. And likewise with hearing acts of obedience described without applying them: every admonition that does not change something within one that affects one's actions is a case against one.


REMEDYING DELUSIONS

The matter of the Afterlife hinges upon one thing alone:

Straightening out one's heart. And no one is incapable of it except someone whose intention is insincere. If a person were as concerned about the next world as this one, he would certainly achieve it. The early Muslims did so, and so have those who have followed them in excellence.

Three things can be used to help rid oneself of delusions:

1. Intelligence, the real light by which a person sees things as they are;

2. Knowledge, through which a person knows himself, his Lord, the worldly life, and the life to come; and

3. Islah and Tarbiyah, by which we mean learning how to travel the way to Allah Most High, spiritual exercises, the pitfall therein, and learning what will bring one nearer and guide one, all of which may be found by linking up with pious scholars well versed in matters of the heart.


Being Careful & Protective Of One's Good Condition

When a person has done all this, he should be wary lest Shaytaan beguile him and make him desirous for leadership, or lest he feel secure from Allah's devising. Fear should never be absent from the hearts of the friends of Allah. We ask Allah to protect us from delusion and that we may end our lives well. Truly, He is near and answers supplications. So let us supplicate.

Some Differences Between Knowledge & Money

KNOWLEDGE

Even from the first moments after birth, a child begins to learn. Some children speak at the age of two and some; well before. But how does a baby learn when it doesn't know the difference between right and wrong?

Knowledge is not only gained by mentally assigning yourself, but it is also gained through features given by Allah SWT e.g. the eyes and the ears, just to name a few priceless bounties. The correct use of these blessings is to thank Allah SWT for them.

Most of us know that knowledge is something very good. But how important exactly is knowledge ?

In a Hadith it states:

"It is compulsory on every Muslim (male or female) to seek (religious) knowledge."

This Hadith clarifies that to seek and obtain knowledge is compulsory for every Muslim, but what knowledge is regarded here?

People who can afford to study, complete their studies finishing with PhDs and Masters in particular subjects, the Hadith states, "on every Muslim".

What will be the difference between a Muslim and a non-Muslim if we all acquire the same knowledge? The emphasis on, "on every Muslim" - in this Hadith indicates knowledge specific to a Muslim, which infers the Deen of Allah SWT.


MONEY / WEALTH

Every human being needs food, requires shelter, clothing etc. Each person must earn in order to fulfil their necessities.

It is clear that humans need to earn for their necessities, but what is the difference between a Muslims earnings and a non-Muslims earnings? Muslims know that they have to earn money the Halal Way - that is, they have to work rightly for their living; they must not steal, deceive or work in such a manner wherein the rules of Islam are broken; for example - Muslims are not allowed to work in pubs, nightclubs, or gambling centres.

Also, once the earner has earned enough money to match the requirements of Zakat - then he/she must pay his Zakat, which is also compulsory if the conditions are met.


THE DIFFERENCE

The differences - as listed below - are mentioned by our Pious Predecessors RA and generally explain the difference between those who run after money and neglect Deen, as compared to those who spend their lives in the path of Allah SWT, only for Allah's pleasure.

Once a person came to Saiyidina Ali ibn Abi Talib RA and asked him:

"What shall I gain; knowledge or wealth?"

Saiyidina Ali RA answered:

"Gain knowledge because it is more beneficial than gaining wealth."

The person then asked for some benefits of gaining knowledge over wealth.

Saiyidina Ali RA replied:

- Knowledge is the inheritance of the Prophets (AS), and wealth is the inheritance of Fir'aun and Qarun;

- The more knowledge you gain, the more beloved you become in the eyes of people and the more wealth you gain, the more people hate you out of jealousy;

- As time passes, the value of money decreases and the value of knowledge increases;

- Wealth needs to be looked after, whereas knowledge protects you;

- You will always fear the theft of money, but knowledge cannot be stolen from the heart;

- On the Day of Judgement, Allah Ta'ala will ask you two questions regarding your wealth - "how it was earned" and "how it was spent". These are two separate questions regarding wealth whereas one question regarding knowledge will be asked - "how much you acted upon it";

- Knowledge helps you gain money but money cannot buy you knowledge;

- Excess money brings pride;


Once Muhammad Shafi'i RA questioned his students:

"What is the meaning of knowledge?"

One of them replied:

"It is to know."

Another student said:

"It is 'to recognise'."

Like this the other students said different things they thought knowledge meant.

Muhammad Shafi'i RA remained in disappointment to the answers he received from his students.

After some time, a student asked Muhammad Shafi'i RA what he recalled the meaning of knowledge.

He replied:

"Knowledge is that light, which once it is gained; you cannot resist acting upon it, and until you don't act upon it; you are not content. This is the meaning of knowledge, or else knowledge is a burden."

The difference between people who run after money and those who go in the Path of Allah SWT and gain his knowledge is briefly explained above.

The moral of this topic of discussion is not so that one stops earning so that he may gain knowledge, as to earn for one's family is equally as important. The main point is to recognise that excess money could ruin us in this world, and in the next. Also, if we can take some time out and study the Deen of Allah SWT, then Inshallah it will be of great benefit in both Worlds.

The thing is - what will we do with all that excess money earned? After we die, it is going to be inherited by others or perhaps the State in the form of Inheritance Tax. How will this benefit us and help us in the Hereafter? Whereas the knowledge we earn will help us to pass this life peacefully and help us in our Afterlife whilst answering the Angels etc. The truth about wealth is - those who has wealth can make their Hereafter good, by spending it in the correct manner; by helping the poor and giving it wherever it is needed most in the world through reputable Islamic Charities. You are part of the Ummah and people are in need. This is how wealth should be spent.

Unfortunately people earn so much wealth and by just giving a drop or two from their wealth to the Ummah, they already think that they have fulfilled the right of the poor and needy. Many of the same people also say that they should only give what they feel sincere about. This is literally true. But let us remember - for Haraam things committed - there will be Azab (Punishment) from Allah SWT; and for Halal things we earm - there will be Hisab (Reckoning) from Allah SWT. Reckoning on the Day of Judgement is one thing that shreds the rich to pieces. This is why we hear from hadith that the majority of the inmates of Paradise are poor people.

Ikhlas and sincerity is not obtained by giving only what we feel comfortable with. Ikhlas is obtained with Istiqamah (persistency), Istighfar (beseeching forgiveness from Allah SWT) and doing good things which we find ourselves reluctant, but we still perform it - only for Allah's pleasure.