Riches in Islam: Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Definition
Riches (Arabic: daulah, دولة) refer to the great wealth and financial prosperity that one can accumulate. In Islamic theology, wealth is seen through both its material and spiritual dimensions, and its ethical use is emphasized in various Islamic texts, including the Qur’ān and Hadith.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: دولة (daulah)
- Turkish: Zenginlik or Servet
Qur’anic References
The Qur’ān addresses the concept of wealth and its ethical implications in multiple verses:
- Surah Al-Hashr (59:7): “What God has bestowed on His Messenger (and taken away) from the people of the townships, belongs to God, to His Messenger…”
- Surah Al-Kahf (18:44): “Wealth (māl) and children are an adornment of this world, but enduring good works are better with your Lord as a reward and better as a hope.”
- Surah Al-Anfal (8:28): “Know that your wealth and children are but a trial…”
Prophetic Sayings (Hadith)
The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said:
<p>“Whoever desires the world and its riches in a lawful manner, in order to withhold himself from begging, or to provide a livelihood for his family, or to be kind to his neighbors, will appear before God on the Last Day with his face as bright as a full moon. But whoever seeks the riches of the world for the sake of ostentation will appear before God in His anger.”</p>
(Mishkāt, Book 22, Chapter 23)
Ethical Considerations
Islamic teachings emphasize the ethical acquisition and usage of wealth. The ethical dimensions can be encapsulated in the following points:
- Lawful Earning: Wealth should be earned through lawful (halal) means.
- Intention: Wealth should be pursued to prevent oneself from begging, to provide for one’s family, and to contribute to societal well-being.
- Avoid Ostentation: Accumulating wealth for the sake of showing off is discouraged.
- Charity and Good Works: Wealth should be used to perform enduring good works which are better in the sight of God.
Recommended Books for Further Studies
- “Wealth in Islam: Principles and Practice” by Imran Ahsan Khan Nyazee
- “Ethics and Wealth in Islam: The Case of Zakat” by M.A. Bakar
- “The Economics of Wealth in Islam” by Monzer Kahf
Takeaways
- Wealth in Islam is seen as both a blessing and a trial.
- Ethical acquisition and utilization of wealth are highly emphasized.
- Qur’anic verses and Hadiths provide guidance on how to view and handle wealth responsibly.
Conclusion
The concept of wealth in Islam, represented by the Arabic term “daulah” (دولة), encapsulates both material and ethical considerations. Islamic teachings stress lawful earning, responsible usage, and the intention behind accumulating wealth. Through various Qur’anic verses and Prophetic sayings, Muslims are guided to use their riches to benefit themselves, their families, and their communities in accordance with divine principles.
