Finding True Envy: Wisdom and Wealth in Daily Life

In our daily lives, it is very easy to look at what others have and feel a quiet yearning in our hearts. We scroll through social media or observe our peers at work and university, noticing their cars, homes, career titles, or public recognition. Naturally, a wish can form inside us: "I wish I had what they have." But our beloved Prophet (ﷺ) redirected this human tendency toward a much higher and more meaningful purpose. In a beautiful narration from Sahih al-Bukhari, recorded by Abdullah bin Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him), we are taught that true aspiration and positive longing—often translated here as a healthy form of envy—should be reserved for only two specific types of people.

The hadith tells us not to wish to be like anyone except in two cases: first, a person whom Allah has given wealth and who spends it righteously in good ways; second, a person whom Allah has given wisdom, meaning the knowledge of the Holy Qur'an, and who both acts according to it and teaches it to others. This guidance helps us realign our deepest desires. Instead of chasing worldly status simply for the sake of luxury or applause, we learn to value resources that serve others and knowledge that brings us closer to our Creator.

1. Using Wealth Righteously

The first person we are allowed to wish to be like is someone blessed with financial means who uses those resources rightly. Wealth in itself is a trust, and how it leaves our hands defines its true value. In everyday life, this means looking at a generous colleague or family member who consistently supports charitable causes, helps relatives in need, or contributes to community welfare without showing off. Instead of feeling bitter about their abundance, we can pray to Allah for similar provisions so that we too can experience the joy of giving, feeding the hungry, and easing someone else's hardship.

2. Living and Sharing Wisdom

The second person is the one gifted with the wisdom of the Qur'an, who implements its teachings in personal actions and passes that beneficial knowledge on to others. In our studies, work, and friendships, we often meet individuals who embody patience, honesty, and deep spiritual insight. When we see a friend who guides others with gentleness, speaks truth with kindness, and organizes their daily routine around learning and teaching divine words, we should wish for that same blessing. It reminds us to prioritize personal learning and to share whatever little goodness we know with our family and children.

Ultimately, this teaching purifies our inner intentions and shapes our daily ambitions. By focusing our desires on righteous spending and sincere wisdom, our ordinary routines transform into acts of worship and connection.

Weekly Practical Takeaway

This week, choose one small way to practice either of these two paths: set aside a modest amount of money for a genuine need in your community, or spend ten minutes each day reading and reflecting on a verse of the Qur'an with the intention of acting upon it and sharing its lesson with a family member.