The Punishment of Envy in Islam
Envy is considered one of the dangerous heart diseases that Islam forbids and prohibits, due to the corruption it causes in individuals and communities. Envy is the desire for others’ blessings to disappear, a negative feeling stemming from jealousy and dissatisfaction with what Allah has granted. Islam provides stern warnings against envy and clarifies its punishment in this world and the hereafter.
Definition of Envy
Envy is defined as the wish for the removal of blessings from others, whether the envious person gains those blessings or not. Allah says, “Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty?” (Surah An-Nisa: 54).
The Prohibition of Envy in Islam
Envy is prohibited in Islam, with numerous texts indicating its prohibition and warning Muslims against it. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Do not envy one another, do not hate one another, do not turn away from one another, but be, O servants of Allah, brothers.” (Sahih Muslim).
He also said, “Beware of envy, for indeed envy consumes good deeds just as fire consumes wood.” (Abu Dawood).
Punishment of Envy in This World
Envy causes many problems and negative impacts on the life of the individual and society, including:
1. Anxiety and Stress:* The envious person lives in constant anxiety due to wishing for others’ blessings to disappear.
2. Loss of Blessings:* Envy causes blessings to be removed from the envious person’s life, leading to perpetual distress and worry.
3. Broken Relationships:* Envy leads to the breakdown of social and familial relationships, spreading hatred and enmity among people.
Punishment of Envy in the Hereafter
In the hereafter, the punishment for the envious person is severe if they do not repent to Allah. Allah has warned the envious of severe torment, as envy is considered a major sin leading to the corruption of the heart and deeds. Allah says, “Say, ‘I seek refuge in the Lord of daybreak * From the evil of that which He created * And from the evil of darkness when it settles * And from the evil of the blowers in knots * And from the evil of an envier when he envies.'” (Surah Al-Falaq: 1-5).
Remedy for Envy
Islam provides solutions to treat and prevent envy, including:
1. Belief in Divine Decree:* A Muslim must believe that everything is predestined by Allah, and that Allah is the one who distributes provisions and blessings among people.
2. Contentment and Satisfaction:* A Muslim should be content with what Allah has given them and be satisfied with their own blessings.
3. Praying for Blessings:* Instead of envying, a Muslim should pray for blessings for others and ask Allah to increase their blessings.
4. Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness:* If a Muslim falls into envy, they should repent to Allah, seek His forgiveness, and ask for His pardon and mercy.
Conclusion
Envy is a dangerous heart disease that a Muslim must avoid and be cautious of. A Muslim should strive to achieve contentment and satisfaction with what Allah has decreed for them and pray for goodness and blessings for others. By adhering to Islamic teachings, a Muslim can live a peaceful life free from anxiety and stress, achieving happiness and success in this world and the hereafter.
