Discussing money and wealth often feels taboo. Many of us grew up hearing phrases like “don’t talk about money”—a sentiment rooted in fears of drawing unwanted attention, sparking jealousy, inviting ill wishes, or violating unspoken social norms. It’s understandable: mentioning wealth or financial success can make others feel insecure, especially if they’re facing hardship, as comparison is hard to avoid. But it’s important not to let your current financial status define your identity—trouble arises when you take others’ reactions or your own circumstances personally.
Instead, frame conversations about wealth as opportunities for motivation and inspiration. A single insight from someone who has built lasting success—such as the disciplines they cultivated or the habits they prioritized—can serve as a blueprint for your own journey. Asking thoughtful questions about their path can ignite action and clarify the expectations you need to set for yourself.
Personal Philosophy: The Foundation of Wealth
I once dismissed phrases like “wealth is all mental” or “it’s an inner game” as abstract, even magical thinking. But over time, I realized a profound truth: those who believe they can achieve abundance and those who doubt themselves are often both proven right.
While circumstances and environment may shape part of your financial reality (and can sometimes be used as ego-protecting rationalizations), your personal philosophy—your core thoughts and beliefs—lies at the root of your actions and outcomes. The cycle is clear:
- Thoughts and beliefs → Actions (or inaction) → Results → Reinforcement of original thoughts (positive or negative)
For example, if you believe “I’m not skilled enough to succeed in business,” you may subconsciously self-sabotage—taking half-hearted steps or avoiding commitment. This leads to disappointing results, which in turn confirm your initial doubt, creating a cycle of stagnation.
Dispelling Limiting Beliefs About Wealth
Let’s challenge common misconceptions that hold many back from pursuing financial stability and abundance:
1. “I can’t save until I have more money.”
This is a myth. The earlier you start saving, the more time compound growth works in your favor. The best time to begin was a decade ago; the next best time is today. Commit to setting aside a fixed percentage of every income—2%, 5%, or 10% (the higher, the better)—before paying bills or covering expenses. The excuse “I can’t afford to save” often masks a lack of priority: in reality, “you can’t afford not to save” for long-term security.
2. “Wanting more money is evil.”
As Muslim UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov wisely said: “Money in your hands is good; money on your mind is bad.” Islam does not condemn wealth—it condemns greed, attachment to material things, and neglecting obligations to others. Wealth is a tool: it allows you to give sadaqah (charity), support your family, and contribute to good causes. While money isn’t the only way to make a difference, it is a powerful one.
3. “I’m unlucky and never catch a break.”
Luck plays a role—being in the right place at the right time matters—but luck tends to favor those who take consistent action and put themselves in positions to seize opportunities. Success rarely comes to those who wait passively; it finds those who show up, experiment, and persist.
4. “I don’t have any good ideas.”
Ideas are not rare—execution is. Claiming “I have no good ideas” is often a defense against failure. The process of generating good ideas requires brainstorming dozens of bad ones first. Write down every idea, no matter how flawed, and refine them over time. You only need one or two strong ideas to transform your financial trajectory.
5. “Allah has predetermined my income—so why try?”
It’s true that Allah knows our sustenance (rizq) before it comes to us. But using this as an excuse to avoid effort or growth misinterprets Islamic teachings. Gratitude for what we have does not conflict with striving for more—these are complementary values. Allah calls us to be grateful and to fulfill our potential. As stated in Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:11): “For each one are successive [angels] before and behind him who protect him by the decree of Allah. Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves. And when Allah intends for a people ill, there is no repelling it. And there is not for them besides Him any patron.”
Personal accountability is key. Take ownership of your choices, step out of your comfort zone, and work diligently—while turning to Allah in supplication for guidance and support.
Duas for Wealth, Sustenance, and Provision
Islam encourages combining action with dua (supplication). Below are authentic prayers for beneficial knowledge, good sustenance, and accepted deeds—all foundational to building meaningful wealth.
1. Dua for Increased Wealth and Blessings
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated that his mother asked the Prophet (ﷺ) to invoke Allah on her behalf. The Prophet (ﷺ) prayed: “O Allah! Increase his wealth and children, and bestow Your Blessing on whatever You give him.”
2. Quranic Dua for Good in This World and the Hereafter
- Arabic Text: رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
- Transliteration: Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil akhirati hasanatan waqina adhaban-nar
- Translation: “Our Lord! Grant us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and save us from the chastisement of the Fire.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 201)
3. Quranic Dua for Sustenance
- Arabic Text: وَرُزْقِنَا وَأَنْتَ خَيْرُ الرَّازِقِينَ
- Transliteration: Warzuqna wa anta khayrur-raaziqeen
- Translation: “And provide for us sustenance, for You are the Best of Sustainers.”
(Surah Al-Maidah, Verse 114)
4. Dua for Beneficial Knowledge, Good Provision, and Accepted Deeds
- Arabic Text: اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلاً مُتَقَبَّلاً
- Transliteration: Allahumma inni as’aluka Ilman naafian, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa amalan mutaqabbalan
- Translation: “O Allah! I ask You for knowledge that is of benefit, a good provision, and deeds that will be accepted.”
(Authentically narrated in Ibn Majah and other collections)
Conclusion
Building wealth and creating financial security for yourself and your family is a journey—one that requires patience, discipline, and long-term thinking. Too many people fall for “get rich quick” schemes, lured by the desire for instant gratification. But true success rarely comes from shortcuts: just as you cannot rush the growth of a tree or the development of a skill, wealth requires consistent effort over time.
As the Prophet (ﷺ) taught, we are rewarded for the work we do in private—years of quiet discipline, learning, and perseverance. This is why the concept of Sabr (patience, endurance, and perseverance) is so central to Islam. Sabr reminds us to trust the process, stay committed to our goals, and avoid the temptation to cut corners.
By combining a growth mindset, personal accountability, and sincere supplication to Allah, you can build wealth that is not only financially secure but also aligned with Islamic values—one that serves you, your family, and the greater good. Remember: Allah is the Best of Sustainers, and He rewards those who strive with integrity and patience.
About the Author
jislam
Administrator
"Allah's guidance to spread the Qur'an, unite Muslims, and strengthen Islam!" "هداية الله لنشر القرآن وتوحيد المسلمين وإعزاز الإسلام!"
