Avoiding Envy: An Islamic Perspective

But there's good news: Islam provides a profound, practical, and beautiful solution to overcome envy. By following the guidance of the Quran, the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and the wisdom of great Islamic scholars, we can cleanse our hearts and replace envy with contentment and genuine happiness.

In this article, we'll explore what envy truly is, why it poses such a serious threat, and, most importantly, how Islam guides us toward freedom from jealousyallowing us to live lives filled with peace, gratitude, and spiritual fulfillment.

What is Envy (Hasad)?

Envy (hasad) is often defined as wishing that someone else's blessings or advantages be taken away from them. In other words, an envious person doesn't just want what another has, they also don't want the other person to have it. This malicious kind of envy is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam . It's different from simply admiring someone's good fortune or wishing to have something like it for yourself without any ill will. That positive kind of feeling is known as ghibtah, which the scholars say is permissible (or even praiseworthy) because it doesn't involve resentment .

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) clarified this difference in the hadith, "There is no envy except in two cases": a person whom Allah has given wealth and who spends it in the right way, and a person whom Allah has given wisdom/knowledge of the Quran and who acts by it and teaches it (reported by al-Bukhari and Muslim). Scholars explain that the word 'envy' here does not mean malicious hasad; it means ghibtah: wishing that Allah grant you similar goodness without wishing the other person lose their blessing. Malicious envy - hoping someone's blessing disappears or feeling pleased if it is ruined - remains sinful and spiritually harmful.

Islam recognizes envy as a natural human emotion but guides us to never let it grow or act on it. As one Islamic scholar, Imam Ibn Taymiyyah, put it: "Jealousy is the hatred of Allah's blessing on another" . In essence, when a person envies, they are unhappy that God chose to give a gift or success to someone else. This makes envy not just a social ill, but a sign of a deeper problem in one's faith and contentment with Allah's decisions.

The Dangers of Envy

Islam teaches that envy is not a harmless feeling, it's a destructive trait with serious consequences. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) warned us strongly about it. He said:

There has come to you the disease of the nations before you: envy and hatred. This is the 'shaver' - I do not say it shaves hair, but it shaves (destroys) faith.

In this saying, the Prophet compared envy to a razor that shaves off one's faith, meaning envy can eat away at our religion and piety. Another commonly quoted warning says that envy consumes good deeds as fire consumes wood. This report is narrated by Abu Dawud and others, but many hadith scholars regarded its chain as weak, so it should not be presented as a firmly authentic hadith. Its general meaning, however, is sound: envy often pushes a person into clear sins such as resentment, backbiting, slander, injustice, and arrogance, and those sins can reduce or erase the reward of good deeds. It should not be understood to mean that a person's prayer or charity is automatically legally invalid merely because an envious thought crossed the heart; the danger is when envy is accepted, nurtured, or acted upon.

Envy is called "the disease of previous nations" because it has caused great evil throughout history. One of the earliest examples of rebellion is the story of Iblis. When Allah created Prophet Adam and commanded the angels to prostrate in honor to him, Iblis refused. The Quran states clearly that Iblis was from the jinn (Quran 18:50), not an angel, though he was present among the angels when the command was given. His stated sin was arrogance - 'I am better than him' - and his resentment of the honor Allah gave Adam shows the close relationship between pride, rivalry, and envy. The Quran describes his hostile words:

[Iblis] said, 'Do You see this one whom You have honored above me? If You delay me until the Day of Resurrection, I will surely destroy his descendants, except for a few.' (Qur'an 17:62)

Because of his envy, Iblis became the avowed enemy of humanity. Envy was also behind the first murder on Earththe tragedy of the two sons of Adam. One brother (Qabil or Cain) killed the other (Habil or Abel) out of envy, because Allah accepted Abel's offering over Cain's. This horrible act showed how envy can drive someone to extreme injustice. Likewise, the Qur'an tells the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph), whose brothers plotted against him due to envy. They were jealous that their father loved Yusuf more, so they threw young Yusuf into a well and caused years of pain for their family. In the end, they regretted their envy, but only after it nearly ruined their lives.

These examples underscore a key point: envy hurts the envier first and foremost. A jealous person lives with anger, sadness, and resentment. The Prophet (ﷺ) said that envy "consumes" a person's faith; it also consumes their happiness. Often, the one we envy might not even know about it, but the envious person is burning on the inside. As one Arabic proverb says, "Envy eats the heart of the envier before it affects the envied." Modern psychology agrees that constant jealousy leads to stress and dissatisfaction. So Islam wants to save us from this self-destructive emotion.

Envy doesn't only damage the individual; it can tear apart families and communities. It leads to hatred, grudges, and unfair competition. When someone is envious, they might start to engage in other sins like backbiting and slander. They may talk bad about the person they envy or try to bring them down unjustly, highlighting that envy directly contradicts the brotherhood and unity that Islam requires among believers.

Spiritually, envy is extremely dangerous. It can even lead a person to reject truth. The Qur'an notes that some of the People of the Book (earlier communities who received scripture) recognized Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the true messenger, but refused to follow him out of envythey wanted the prophethood to come from their own people, not the Arabs. Allah says in the Qur'an:

Many of the People of the Scripture wish they could turn you back to disbelief after you have believed, out of envy from themselves, [even] after the truth has become clear to them. (Qur'an 2:109)

Here we see envy literally blinding people from accepting guidance. They saw the truth, but their jealousy made them oppose it. This shows how envy can destroy someone's akhirah (hereafter) as well as their dunya (worldly life) . No wonder the Prophet (ﷺ) said "Faith and envy cannot coexist in the heart of a believer." A faithful heart, filled with trust in Allah, has no room for the dark fire of jealousy.

Envy in the Qur'an

The Qur'an, which Muslims believe is the word of Allah, directly addresses the issue of envy and gives us guidance on it. Here are some key Quranic verses about envy, with their English translations:

And do not crave what Allah has given some of you over others. Men will be rewarded according to their deeds and women equally according to theirs. Rather, ask Allah for His bounty. Surely Allah has perfect knowledge of all things.(Qur'an 4:32)

In this verse, Allah plainly instructs us not to wish for the advantages which He has given to others. We each have our own role and rewards based on our actions. Envying someone else's talent, wealth, or status is futile and wrong; instead, we should pray to Allah to bless us out of His bounty. In other words, focus on asking God for your needs rather than resenting others. This verse promotes contentment and gratitude over envy.

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty? But We have already given the family of Abraham the Scripture and wisdom and bestowed upon them a great kingdom.(Qur'an 4:54)

This verse criticizes those who begrudge others the gifts that Allah bestowed on them. Historically, it referred to certain groups who envied the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) (from the lineage of Abraham) for receiving revelation. The message is that envy is unjustified, Allah is the one who decides who gets what, just as He previously chose prophets and gave some people more blessings than others. Envying them is like questioning Allah's wisdom.

And Allah has favored some of you over others in provision. But those who were favored would not hand over their provision to their servants such that they become equal, so why do they reject the favor of Allah?(Qur'an 16:71)

This verse reminds us that differences in provision are by Allah's wisdom, but its immediate tafsir context is broader than envy. Many classical commentators explain it as an argument against shirk: people would not make their own dependents equal partners in their wealth, so how can created beings be treated as equal partners with Allah? Still, the verse also teaches humility about provision: Allah distributes wealth and ability as a test, and the believer responds with gratitude, justice, and asking Allah for His bounty rather than resentment.

Say: 'I seek refuge in the Lord of daybreak, from the evil of that which He created, ... and from the evil of an envier when he envies.'(Qur'an 113:1-5)

These lines are from Surah al-Falaq, one of the short concluding chapters of the Quran. Here, Allah teaches us to seek His protection from many harms, including the evil of an envier when he envies. This shows that envy can become harmful when a person allows it to turn into wishing harm, speaking harm, acting harmfully, or causing harm by the evil eye if Allah permits. Muslims recite Surah al-Falaq and Surah an-Nas as regular protection. It is authentic that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used the Mu'awwidhat for protection, especially when ill, but reports that these surahs were first revealed specifically because of the magic incident are not established with the same strength as the authentic reports about the incident itself. The sound takeaway is clear: protection from envy and all unseen harm is sought from Allah through sincere refuge, Quran, and trust in Him.

Aside from these, the Qur'an also indirectly teaches about envy through stories. For example, in Surah Yusuf, we learn how the prophet Joseph's brothers fell into envy and how it led them astray, and in Surah Al-Ma'idah (Chapter 5) the tale of Adam's sons shows envy leading to violence. By reflecting on these stories, Muslims are meant to see the ugly outcomes of envy and avoid following that path.

Envy in the Hadith (Prophetic Teachings)

The sayings of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) (hadith) further illuminate the Islamic stance on envy. The Prophet (ﷺ) was very emphatic in teaching his followers to purify their hearts of envy and related vices. Let's look at some important hadiths and reports on envy. Most are authentic or acceptable; where a report is disputed or weak, that should be stated clearly:

Do not envy one another; do not inflate prices to outbid each other; do not hate one another; do not turn away from one another, and be, O servants of Allah, brothers.(Hadith recorded in Sahih Muslim)

This advice comes from a well-known hadith about building brotherhood. The first prohibition the Prophet mentions is "do not envy one another," showing how critical it is in Islam to avoid jealousy. Instead of competing out of envy or harboring grudges, Muslims are encouraged to treat each other like family. A community cannot thrive if people envy and resent each other.

Faith and envy cannot coexist in the heart of a believer.(Hadith narrated in al-Nasa'i)

Here the Prophet (ﷺ) makes a profound statement: true faith (iman) and envy cannot live together in one heart. If envy takes root, it will diminish one's faith, because a faithful person trusts Allah's decisions. Conversely, strong faith (accompanied by love for others) will push out destructive envy. This hadith urges us to choose faith and contentment, as they are incompatible with jealousy.

A commonly cited report says: 'Beware of envy, for envy consumes good deeds as fire consumes wood.' It is narrated by Abu Dawud and others, but its chain is weak according to many hadith critics.

Because of that, it is better to cite it with caution rather than as a fully authentic proof. The meaning is still supported by broader Islamic teachings: envy can lead to backbiting, slander, injustice, hatred, and arrogance, and those sins endanger one's reward and sincerity. The practical lesson remains: do not let the fire of envy become words or actions that harm your religion and other people.

There has come to you the disease of those before you: envy and hatred… it is the shaver (destroyer) of faith.(Hadith in Jami' al-Tirmidhi)

This hadith (also quoted earlier) emphasizes that envy is an age-old spiritual disease. It destroyed peoples in the past (by leading them into sin and disbelief), and it will destroy us too if we let it. Calling envy a "disease" and a "destroyer" really underlines that it's lethal for our spiritual well-being. Just as we would treat a serious illness aggressively, we should strive to cure our hearts of envy.

None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.(Hadith in Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)

While this hadith doesn't explicitly use the word "envy," it addresses its cure: selfless love. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught that part of having complete faith is to want goodness for others just as you would want it for yourself, with no envy or jealousy. If we attain this quality, envy can't find a place in our hearts. Instead of feeling jealous when something good happens to someone, a believer should feel happy for them. This empathy and goodwill are exactly opposite of envy, and this famous saying encourages us to develop that attitude as a hallmark of our faith.

There are also hadiths that describe practical ways to deal with envy. For example, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: 'Look at those who are lower than you and do not look at those who are above you, for that is more likely to make you not belittle Allah's favors upon you' (Muslim). This especially applies to worldly matters, wealth, and status; it trains the heart to notice mercy rather than constantly compare upward. Another authentic teaching is that when a person sees something in himself, his wealth, or his brother that amazes him, he should ask Allah to bless it, because the evil eye is real. The Sunnah wording is to make a blessing supplication such as 'Allahumma barik' (O Allah, bless it) or 'Barak Allahu fik/lak' (May Allah bless you/it). Saying 'Masha'Allah' is also a good acknowledgment that the blessing is from Allah, and 'Masha'Allah, la quwwata illa billah' is a Quranic phrase from 18:39, but it should not be presented as the specific Prophetic formula for preventing the evil eye. These teachings combine gratitude, du'a, and protection from envy within ourselves and from harm caused by others.

Insights from Islamic Scholars

Islamic scholars, both classical and contemporary, have analyzed the issue of envy in depth, since it's one of the diseases of the heart that Muslims are encouraged to cure. Across the major Sunni schools of thought (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali), malicious envy (hasad) is agreed to be forbidden and sinful when a person wishes another's blessing to disappear, is pleased by another's loss, nurtures resentment, or acts on it. A passing, unwanted feeling that a person dislikes and pushes away is not treated like a chosen sin; rather, resisting it is part of spiritual struggle. Islamic law does not prescribe a worldly punishment for an internal state alone, but if envy leads to backbiting, slander, sabotage, seeking harm through the evil eye, or other harm, those outward wrongs carry legal and moral consequences. All four schools recognize purification of the heart (tazkiyat al-nafs) as part of religion, and envy is a key impurity to be cleansed.

Great scholars like Imam al-Ghazali (11th century) discussed envy at length in their works. In "Ihya' Ulum al-Din" (The Revival of Religious Sciences), Imam al-Ghazali listed envy as one of the destructive vices. He defined it as feeling pain at the goodness another person has, and wishing for them to lose it. Al-Ghazali explains that envy is inherently illogical and self-defeating, it doesn't bring you any gain, and it harms your deen. Importantly, he notes that envy is essentially objection to Allah's will. After all, who gave that other person their blessing? It was Allah. So being upset about it is like questioning Allah's decision to bless them . A scholar from a later era, Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya, said the same: the envious person is actually angry at Allah's decree . This is a very dangerous attitude for one's faith.

Imam al-Ghazali also analyzed the causes of envy. Why do people become envious? Some reasons he identified are: pride (one can't stand someone else being above them), greed or competition (feeling that another's gain is one's loss), fear (that someone's success will undermine you), and deep-down, love of the world (being too attached to material ranks and rewards). Understanding the cause can help in finding the cure. For instance, if pride is causing envy, the cure is to humble oneself and remember Allah is in control; if it's due to feeling of competition for limited resources, the cure is to trust Allah's generosity (knowing that "what is with Allah is better and more lasting").

Contemporary scholars continue to advise on this topic. They often mention that envy is a loss in both worldsit destroys your peace here and your rewards in the hereafter. Shaykh Ibn `Uthaymeen, a respected 20th-century scholar, said that a person must repent from envy like any major sin, and he listed many harms of envy. He quoted earlier authorities saying: "Jealousy is the worst of manners" and "Envy is the first sin of the heavens and the earth". Ibn Taymiyyah (a 14th-century scholar) gave a practical sign: "Everyone experiences bouts of jealousy; but the dignified person conceals it, while the vulgar one acts upon it." In other words, almost nobody is totally free of envy trying to creep into their heart, but a righteous person will resist those feelings and never act out because of them. That gives hope: feeling an initial twinge of envy isn't itself a sin if you immediately reject it. The task is to control it, not let it grow.

Scholars also distinguish envy from related concepts. One is gheerah, sometimes translated as "protective jealousy," which refers to a praiseworthy zeal to protect one's honor or loved ones (for example, a husband's protective jealousy for his wife's dignity, or a Muslim's protective feeling for their faith). Gheerah is considered good and different from hasad because it's not about coveting someone's blessings; it's about safeguarding something valuable from violation. Another concept is competitiveness in good deeds which the Qur'an encourages ("vie with one another in good works"). This is not envy because you're not wishing others to lose; you're simply motivated to excel. Islam actually encourages healthy competition in charity and piety, as long as it's free of malice.

In terms of spiritual consequences, scholars often mention that envy, if not checked, can lead to kufr (disbelief) or major injustice. They point to Iblis and the story of the Jewish tribes who rejected Islam out of envy. It's even mentioned in hadith that envy "shaved off" the religion of past nations, implying many communities fell into decline because of internal jealousy and strife. Thus, scholars warn that envy can undermine the unity of the Muslim community (ummah). If Muslims envy each other, it's like a poison in the social fabric. That's why classical texts on Islamic ethics (akhlaq) and modern sermons alike stress the importance of rooting out envy to achieve true brotherhood and sisterhood.

Why Islam's Perspective on Envy is Unique

Envy is recognized as a negative emotion in many cultures and religions, for example, in Christianity "Thou shalt not covet" is a commandment, and Buddhism also warns against jealousy. However, Islam's approach to envy is especially comprehensive and deep. It combines theological, moral, and practical guidance that offers a superior solution to this human problem. Here are a few reasons why the Islamic perspective on envy stands out:

• 1. Linking Envy to Faith in God's Decree: Islam doesn't treat envy as just a social/psychological issue; it links it to one's belief in Allah. A Muslim is taught that everything people have - wealth, status, looks, talents - are given by Allah as a test for them. Therefore, feeling envy is essentially being unhappy with Allah's allocation. This theological view powerfully discourages envy, because a believer doesn't want to displease Allah. Secular approaches might say "Don't envy because it'll stress you out" - which is true, but Islam goes further: "Don't envy because Allah has decided who gets what, and He knows best, so trust Him." This fosters contentment (ridha) and reliance on God (tawakkul), which quell envy at its root.

• 2. Emphasis on the Heart: Islam is a religion very much focused on inner transformation. It's not just about outward actions; purifying the heart is a core part of the faith. Envy is categorized as a disease of the heart, and Islam provides a holistic treatment for it (remembrance of God, prayer, changing one's thinking, etc.). Other systems might only address the external effects of envy (like trying to curb malicious behavior), but Islam wants us to clean our hearts so that envy is gone even internally. A person with a clean heart is praised in Islam. A well-known report, narrated in works such as Musnad Ahmad, tells of a man described as being from the people of Paradise; when Abdullah ibn Amr observed him, he learned that the man did not carry malice or envy toward Muslims. Hadith scholars have differed over the strength of this particular story, so it should not be used as a primary proof on its own. Its meaning, however, is strongly supported by the Quran and sound Sunnah: a heart free of rancor, hatred, and envy is beloved to Allah, and Islam makes that purity a goal for every believer.

• 3. Balanced View - Acknowledging Good Envy: Unlike some views that might blanketly condemn any form of yearning for what others have, Islam distinguishes between blameworthy envy (hasad) and positive emulation (ghibtah). This means Islam doesn't suppress natural healthy motivation. Wanting to improve yourself by seeing others excel can be a good thing if it doesn't entail resentment. Islam encourages this positive competition in righteousness. For example, if I see a friend memorizing Quran or giving a lot in charity, I might feel "envy" in the sense of I wish I could do that too. Islam channels that feeling into productive action (so go and do it!), rather than destructive brooding. So the Islamic perspective doesn't ask us to kill our ambition; it just steers it away from jealousy and toward self-improvement and prayer (like making du'a: "Allah, grant me similar blessings"). This nuanced approach is superior to simply telling people "don't compare yourself to others" - because comparisons do happen, Islam teaches us how to turn them into something positive.

• 4. Community Focus and Rights: Islam's teachings on envy tie into a broader ethical system that safeguards others' rights and honors. We are not only told not to envy, but also told what to do instead: love each other, celebrate each other's blessings, give gifts to remove ill-will, etc. For instance, the Prophet (ﷺ) said smiling at your brother is charity, and giving gifts increases love. These actions actively combat envy by fostering love. In a purely material worldview, one might handle envy by just self-discipline or therapy for oneself. Islam combines personal discipline with community remedies: we're encouraged to congratulate others on their success, to say "Masha'Allah" (acknowledging it's from God) when we see something impressive, and to make du'a (prayer) for others to be blessed. These behaviors strengthen bonds and reduce the chances of envy taking hold. It's a proactive social solution, not just an internal struggle.

• 5. Spiritual Rewards for Overcoming Envy: Islam promises great reward for those who purify their hearts and resist envy. The Quran teaches the believers to pray: 'Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith, and do not place in our hearts any rancor toward those who believe' (Quran 59:10). The verse itself is not worded as a direct promise of 'gardens of Paradise' for merely reciting this du'a; rather, it praises the attitude of later believers toward earlier believers and teaches a du'a that removes hatred and resentment. Together with the broader Quranic promise that salvation belongs to those who come to Allah with a sound heart (Quran 26:88-89), it shows that cleansing envy is an act of worship done to please Allah and seek eternal success.

• 6. Protection from Envy's Harm (The Evil Eye): Islam affirms the evil eye because Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, 'The evil eye is real' (Muslim). This is a matter of revealed knowledge, not a claim that every hardship is caused by jealousy or that people should become suspicious of others. Protection is sought through tawhid, trust in Allah, the morning and evening adhkar, and reciting chapters of refuge such as Surah al-Falaq and Surah an-Nas. When admiring a blessing, a Muslim should ask Allah to bless it. Charity is always virtuous and a means of Allah's mercy, but it should not be presented as a guaranteed formula against every calamity unless supported by reliable evidence. The balanced Islamic approach is to be grateful and discreet without becoming fearful, superstitious, or accusatory.

In summary, Islam's perspective is holistic: it diagnoses envy as a spiritual disease, prescribes preventive medicine (contentment, gratitude, love for others), emergency medicine (seeking refuge in God, prayer), and even post-illness care (repentance and restoration of rights if envy led one to harm someone). It transforms a person by addressing the heart and mind together. When these teachings are followed, the result is a person who is generous in spirit, at peace with what Allah has given them, and compassionate towards others. This character is far superior to the bitter, anxious state that envy creates. Islam essentially offers a cure, not just a command.

A Miracle Related to Envy

Islamic history also contains an authentic incident showing Allah's protection of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In reports recorded by al-Bukhari and Muslim, Labid ibn al-A'sam performed magic against the Prophet (PBUH), and Allah informed the Prophet of what had happened and protected him from any harm to his mission or revelation. The authentic core of the report should be stated carefully: it does not prove that the last two surahs were first revealed at that moment, nor should Labid's motive be described as envy unless a reliable report establishes that detail. Other narrations connect the recitation of Surah al-Falaq and Surah an-Nas with the removal of knots, but those details are not at the same level of authenticity as the basic incident. The sound lesson is still powerful: magic, envy, and unseen harms only occur by Allah's permission, and the believer seeks protection through tawhid, du'a, Quran, and reliance on Allah.

Another important ethical lesson is the well-known report about a man described as being from the people of Paradise. It should be presented with scholarly caution: it is narrated in Musnad Ahmad and other works, and hadith scholars have differed about its chain. For that reason, it is better not to call it a miracle or build a doctrine on it. The meaning is nevertheless beautiful and consistent with stronger evidence: ordinary acts of worship should be joined with a heart that does not carry malice, rancor, or envy toward Muslims. The report can inspire believers, while the firm proof remains the Quranic and authentic Prophetic command to purify the heart.

Also, consider that Islam's holy book, the Qur'an, itself is regarded as a miracle. Within it, by guiding us to avoid envy, it miraculously reforms lives. Countless people have experienced that following Quranic guidance on envy brought peace and improved their character in ways they couldn't achieve before. In a sense, the transformation of a person who was once jealous and discontent into someone who is generous-hearted and grateful is a sort of everyday miracle wrought by Islamic teachings. Many converts to Islam remark on how concepts like trust in God's decree and the practice of saying "Alhamdulillah" (praising God for everything) helped them overcome jealousy and anxiety that they struggled with previously. Such personal miracles highlight the practical truth in Islam's perspective.

Practical Advice for Avoiding Envy

Avoiding envy is not always easy, but Islam provides practical steps to help us do so. Here are some effective strategies a Muslim (or anyone) can implement to keep envy at bay and cultivate a more content heart:

1. Increase Gratitude (Shukr): Make it a habit to count your own blessings regularly. Each day, think of a few things you are grateful for that Allah has given you, big or small. Thank Allah for them in your prayers. The Qur'an says that if you are grateful, Allah will give you more (14:7). Gratitude shifts your focus from what you don't have to what you do have. It's practically impossible to feel envious and thankful at the same time! Try keeping a gratitude journal or include more praises of Allah (like saying Alhamdulillah, "Praise be to God") throughout your day.

2. Strengthen Trust in Allah's Plan (Tawakkul and Ridha): Remind yourself that Allah is the Provider for everyone. What is meant for you will reach you; what isn't, was never meant for you. Envy often comes when we forget this and think of life as unfair. Read about Allah's Names (such as Ar-Razzaq, the Sustainer) and remember that He knows what is best for each of us. When you feel envy, consciously say: "Allah decided this, and I accept His wisdom." This helps develop ridha (contentment with Allah's decree). Often, we don't know why someone has a certain blessing, it could even be a test for them. Trusting Allah's wisdom will bring you peace.

3. Pray for the Person You Envy: This might sound difficult, but it's a powerful antidote. If you feel envy towards someone, immediately make a sincere du'a (prayer) for them: "O Allah, bless them in what You have given them and grant me from Your bounty as well." By doing this, you turn the negative feeling into a positive one. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught that making du'a for someone in their absence grants you a similar reward. Also, when you pray for someone, it's hard to keep resenting them. Your heart softens and envy fades. Try it, next time you scroll social media and feel envy seeing someone's happiness or success, pause and pray for their continued happiness and success.

4. Say "Masha'Allah" and Avoid Boasting: As part of Islamic etiquette, when you see something admirable or praiseworthy (in your life or someone else's), say "Masha'Allah" (meaning "As God has willed"). This phrase attributes the blessing to Allah, which helps remove any inadvertent envy. If you are the one with the blessing, saying Masha'Allah is a humble acknowledgement that it's from God, not just your own doing. Also, be mindful not to show off your blessings in a way that might incite envy in others. Islam encourages modesty. For example, if you achieve a big success, share the news with those who will genuinely be happy for you, but there's no need to flaunt it everywhere. The evil eye can come even unintentionally, so protect yourself and others by keeping a humble profile. Similarly, on the receiving end, when you see others' blessings, assume good and be happy for them. Think, "Allah blessed them, Masha'Allah." This mindset leaves little room for envy.

5. Reflect on the Harm of Envy: Regularly remind yourself why envy is so harmful. Recall the hadith that it burns your good deeds like fire burns wood. Remind yourself of how Iblis was cursed because of envy. No one wants to follow that path. Sometimes a quick reality-check can snuff out an envious thought. You might tell yourself, "Is that new car/house/award of my friend worth destroying my peace and reward? Of course not!" Understanding that envy does nothing except hurt you makes it easier to let it go. As one scholar said, "Envy is a punishment you give yourself." It's just not worth it.

6. Develop Empathy and Love for Others: Work on genuinely caring about others. The more you love people, the less you'll envy them. Start with your close circle, family and friends. Celebrate their achievements and share in their joys. Islam teaches us to think of fellow Muslims as brothers and sisters; their gain is your gain, their loss your loss. When you hear good news about someone, force yourself to say words of praise or congratulations ("Alhamdulillah, I'm so happy for you!"). Actions influence feelings; by acting pleased, over time you will actually feel pleased. Also try to remember the struggles of others. Often we envy someone's highlight reel but forget they might have hardships we don't see. Recognize that everyone has tests in life, and if you wouldn't trade your whole life with theirs, why envy that one aspect?

7. Keep a Clean Heart Through Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Engage in regular dhikr and spiritual practices that soften the heart. Reading Quran, making istighfar (seeking forgiveness), sending salawat (blessings) on the Prophet (PBUH), and other forms of remembrance bring you closer to Allah and fill the heart with light. A heart strengthened by iman has less room for the darkness of envy. In sujood and private du'a, ask Allah directly: 'O Allah, cleanse my heart from envy, hatred, and rancor.' You can also use the Quranic du'a: 'Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith, and do not place in our hearts any rancor toward those who believe' (Quran 59:10). It is better to attribute that wording to the Quran rather than state that the Prophet (PBUH) taught it as a separate hadith. If you ask sincerely and keep struggling, Allah can purify the heart over time.

8. Find Inspiration in Role Models: Read about the character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions in terms of dealing with envy. Their lives offer inspiring examples. For instance, the Muhajirun and Ansar (the two groups of early Muslims in Medina) shared resources and loved each other truly for the sake of Allah; the Ansar welcomed the emigrants and even gave them half of their wealth without envy. Such stories can motivate us to rise above petty jealousy. When you admire righteous people, you'll want to emulate their generosity of spirit, not be jealous of others. Also, remember that our ultimate role model, the Prophet, was free of envy, he even prayed for the very people who opposed him. Strive to walk his path just a little, and you'll find envy out of place in your heart.

9. Practice Charity and Kindness: Envy often comes from a place of selfishness or feeling competitive over limited resources. One way to break that mindset is by giving charity and doing acts of kindness. When you give to others for the sake of Allah, it cultivates love and humility. It also reminds you that worldly things are not the goal, pleasing Allah is. If you find yourself envying someone's money or success, go donate something or help someone in need. It will make your heart feel more content and grateful. Serving those less fortunate especially puts things in perspective; you realize how much you have to be thankful for, and the urge to envy those with "more" diminishes.

10. Remember the Hereafter: Lastly, keep your eyes on the true prize, the rewards of the Hereafter. The life of this world is temporary, and people's fortunes here are not a sign of who is truly successful. On the Day of Judgment, Allah will not judge us by how our wealth or status compared to others, but by our deeds and hearts. Sometimes a person who had very little here will be far ahead in Paradise, and someone who seemed to have it all here might have nothing in the Hereafter if they were ungrateful. So whenever envy tempts you, remind yourself: "What Allah has in store for me is better and everlasting if I am patient and righteous." This mindset shift (from a worldly view to an eternal view) makes it easier to let others enjoy their temporary blessings while you work for eternal ones. In Paradise, insha'Allah (God willing), no one will have any envy at all, as the Qur'an tells us that Allah will remove whatever ill-feelings are in people's hearts. Paradise is the realm of pure happiness and love. Strive for that, and envy loses its appeal.

By implementing these steps, a Muslim can move forward practically to rid themselves of envy. It might not happen overnight, it's a gradual process of spiritual growth. You may slip up and catch yourself feeling envious at times, but with these tools you can recognize it and cut it off early. Over time, you'll notice your heart becoming more at ease, more generous, and closer to Allah. This is a journey of becoming a better person as guided by Islam, and the effort spent is truly worth it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Islamic approach to envy (hasad) is a holistic blend of spiritual insight and practical guidance. Islam identifies envy as a dangerous disease of the heart, warns us of its spiritual and social consequences, and equips us with the tools to overcome it. It teaches us to be content with Allah's decree, to love others selflessly, and to seek refuge in Allah from the evils of jealousy. By following these teachings, a person can transform envy into admiration, malice into love, and anxiety into peace. In doing so, we don't just avoid a sin, we cultivate a heart that reflects the beauty of faith.

Ultimately, the goal for a Muslim is to meet Allah with a "Qalbun Saleem", a sound heart. As the Qur'an says, on Judgment Day neither wealth nor children will benefit anyone "except one who comes to Allah with a pure heart" (26:88-89). A pure heart has no envy. Striving to purify our hearts from envy is a journey toward that ideal, and it's a key part of what makes the Islamic way of life so comprehensive and sublime. May Allah help us all to remove envy from our hearts and fill them with contentment, gratitude, and love for others. Ameen.

Recommended Books ( Resources) on Envy and Purification of the Heart

For those interested in delving deeper into the topic of envy and how to cure the heart of such diseases from an Islamic perspective, here are some mainstream, highly-regarded books by scholars:

Each of these books approaches the topic with scholarly depth and wisdom, and they have been widely studied by Muslims. Reading such works can enrich one's understanding and provide more detailed strategies and examples on taming envy and improving one's character. Remember, learning is a continuous process, by seeking knowledge and applying it, we hope to inch closer to the ideal state of a believer's heart: one that is pious, pure, and free of sin, hatred, and envy.