Islam and Jealousy

Jealousy is a complex emotion, often accompanied by feelings of insecurity, fear, or resentment. In Islam, jealousy, or hasad, is a subject of significant importance, as it impacts both the individual and the wider community. Learning and understanding jealousy in Islam and how to manage it is crucial for your contentment and harmonious relationships.

When I became a Muslim I’ve found that Islam’s teachings on this emotion are not just theoretical but substantially practical. They guide you through self-reflection, provide actionable remedies, and how to protect yourself from jealousy. Sharing my perspective on “Islam and jealousy” is not only liberating but a means to help others who might be facing similar struggles.

In my early days as a Muslim, I didn’t think of jealousy as something that could harm me or people around me. I would share a lot on social media, pictures from holidays, work achievements, nice food, expensive gifts, you name it. My intention was all about sharing my blessings and celebrating my achievements. I didn’t realize how easily these posts could fuel jealousy in others. I saw the subtle hints of envy in comments, the occasional snide remark. The way some people would suddenly comment on my recent post or make quick assumptions that could not be farther from the truth. It made me realize that social media, while a powerful tool for connection, can also be a breeding ground for negativity and resentment.

I was also blinded by my own ego, seeking validation and admiration through these online displays. I slowly began to realize that true happiness wasn’t found in external validation or material possessions. It was about cultivating gratitude, focusing on inner peace, and appreciating the blessings I already had. This journey of self-reflection led me to a deeper understanding of my faith and a more authentic way of living.

WHEN YOU NEED LESS, YOU WILL HAVE MORE!

Think about this for a moment. Don’t you think it is truth? The less we actually need, the more content and happy we feel. I know and strongly believe that beauty is in simplicity! Islam teaches us to have live simple life, but unfortunately we are the ones who complicate our lives, not others, not Islam, not money, not work but us.

Understanding: Islam and Jealousy

In Islam, jealousy is recognized as a natural human emotion. However, like all emotions, it must be addressed and directed appropriately. Jealousy can take two main forms: permissible and impermissible.

Permissible Jealousy

A permissible form of “jealousy” can occur when one admires another’s knowledge and strives to acquire similar skills or understanding. This type of envy is constructive and can motivate individuals to strive for self-improvement. For instance, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned that envy is permissible in two cases:

A person whom Allah SWT has given wealth, and they spend it in righteous causes.
A person whom Allah SWT has granted wisdom, and they act according to it and teach it to others.

I began to admire others blessings while making du’a for them to protect what they’ve been blessed with, while asking Allah SWT for similar blessings in my life.

Impermissible Jealousy

Impermissible jealousy, or hasad, is condemned in Islam. It involves desiring the deprivation of someone else’s blessings. This negative form of jealousy stems from arrogance, ingratitude, and a lack of trust in Allah’s SWT divine wisdom.

The Quran warns against hasad in several verses. One of the most cited is from Surah Al-Falaq:

“Say, ‘I seek refuge in the Lord of daybreak… From the evil of an envier when he envies.’” (Quran 113:1, 5)

When I first came across this verse, it struck a chord. It was a reminder of the destructive nature of jealousy and the importance of seeking refuge in Allah SWT from its harm.

How Jealousy Affected My Life

I stopped posting on social media that, since I’m cautious what I share on the internet. We do not know what people’s real intentions are towards us. I definitely became a more private person, I do not open up easily to others, whether it is sharing good or bad. I realized the importance of setting healthy boundaries and protecting my inner peace. Sharing too much of myself online or face-to-face with someone left me feeling vulnerable and exposed. I learned to be more discerning about who I shared my thoughts and feelings with, and I began to appreciate the value of privacy and discretion.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Beware of jealousy, for it consumes good deeds like fire consumes wood.” (Abu Dawood)

This shift in my behavior wasn’t merely about personal preference; it was about aligning my actions with Islamic principles. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of guarding one’s tongue and avoiding unnecessary speech. Sharing excessively can lead to idle talk, gossip, and even backbiting, all of which are discouraged in Islam.

Steps I Took to Protect Myself from Jealousy

Overcoming the harm caused by jealousy directed towards me was not an overnight process, but Islam provided me with a roadmap for protection and healing. By aligning my heart and actions with Islamic principles, I found a way to safeguard myself from the negative effects of others’ envy. Here’s what helped me:

1. Strengthening Faith in Allah’s SWT Decree

Belief in qadr (divine decree) was the first step. I reminded myself that Allah’s SWT wisdom governs the distribution of blessings. The Quran states:

“And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others…” (Quran 4:32)

This verse comforted me and helped me internalize the idea that Allah’s plan for me is unique and perfectly tailored. Trusting in His wisdom helped me remain steadfast.

2. Practicing Gratitude

Gratitude became my shield against the harm of jealousy. I started reminding myself of at least five blessings every day. This practice shifted my focus from what others thought or felt about me to what I had, reminding me of Allah’s SWT mercy and generosity.

The Quran promises:

“If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor].” (Quran 14:7)

I can not stress enough the importance of this step. It is like a working out, you need to do it for weeks if not months to see the benefits of it. The same it is with practicing gratitude, I often advise others that cultivating gratitude is like training a muscle: you need to consistently practice recognizing the blessings in your life, especially during difficult times.

3. Making Dua for Others

Making dua for protection against jealousy became a regular habit. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provided us with powerful supplications, such as:

“I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.”

Reciting this dua regularly gave me strength and reassurance.

4. Avoiding Display of Blessings

One lesson I learned was the importance of modesty in sharing my blessings. The Quran advises:

“Indeed, the best of speech is concise.”

Basically: Less is more when it comes to talking. You gotta keep it short and sweet, that’s the best way to say it.

By avoiding unnecessary display of achievements or possessions, relationships, especially in public or on social media, I minimized the risk of arousing envy in others.

5. Seeking Refuge in Allah

Reciting protective supplications, such as those in Surah Al-Falaq and Surah Ayatul Kursi, became part of my daily routine. These prayers acted as spiritual armor, shielding me from the outside harm coming my direction.

Transforming Jealousy into Positive Action

Channel jealousy into positive action:

Recognize and Acknowledge: The first step is to acknowledge the presence of jealousy within yourself. Be honest with your feelings and identify the specific situations or individuals that trigger these emotions.
Seek Forgiveness: Recognize that jealousy is a sin, and sincerely repent to Allah (SWT) for harboring such feelings. Turn to Him in prayer and seek His forgiveness for any negative thoughts or actions stemming from jealousy.
Cultivate Gratitude: Focus on the blessings you have been bestowed by Allah (SWT), rather than dwelling on what others possess. Practice gratitude for your health, family, friends, and the opportunities you have been given.
Emphasize Shared Blessings: Instead of focusing on what others have that you lack, consider the blessings you share with them. Recognize the common humanity you share and the interconnectedness of all creation.
Engage in Acts of Kindness: Channel your energy into acts of kindness and generosity towards others. Helping those in need can shift your focus from your own perceived shortcomings to the well-being of others.
Seek Knowledge: Learn more about Islamic teachings on contentment, humility, and the dangers of jealousy. Study the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for guidance on overcoming negative emotions.
Supplicate to Allah (SWT): Pray to Allah (SWT) for strength and guidance in overcoming jealousy. Ask Him to purify your heart and replace feelings of envy with contentment and gratitude.

Conclusion

Islam and jealousy are deeply intertwined, offering lessons on deeper level for personal development. Jealousy taught me the importance of aligning my heart with Islamic principles, practicing gratitude, and trusting Allah’s SWT wisdom. By transforming jealousy into a force for growth, I’m not only improved my relationship with Allah SWT but also fostered a heart filled with contentment and love. If you’re struggling with jealousy, know that Islam provides the tools to overcome it, one step at a time.

May Allah SWT purify our hearts and fill them with what is most loved by Him. Ameen.

Islam and Jealousy – Breaking Free from the Jealousy