Purifying the heart: Letting go of envy

By Hatmah Nalugwa Ssekaya

In Islam, the heart is central to our character, and one of its most harmful diseases is envy (hasad)—wishing that someone else loses the blessings Allah S.W has given them.

Allahu subhanahu wa ta’ala warns us:

“And from the evil of the envier when he envies.”

– (Qur’an 113:5)

Envy does not harm others as much as it harms the one who carries it. It steals peace, creates resentment, and weakens faith.

The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W said:

“Beware of envy, for it consumes good deeds just as fire consumes wood.”- (Abu Dawud)

ADAB OF PROTECTING THE HEART FROM ENVY

Recognize blessings as from Allah: What others have is part of His wisdom and decree.

Make du’a for others: Ask Allah to bless them even more—this purifies the heart.

Focus on your own blessings: Gratitude replaces envy with contentment.

Avoid constant comparison: Everyone’s journey is different.

Practice sincerity: Love for others what you love for yourself.

A heart free from envy is light, peaceful, and content. It allows genuine love and unity among believers.

Practical Tip: When you feel envy rising, immediately say: “Allahumma barik lahum” (O Allah, bless them). This transforms jealousy into du’a.

Takeaway: Contentment is wealth—free your heart from envy, and it will be filled with peace.

Assalaam alaikhum wa rahmatullahi wa barakaatuhu…