Halal Envy "Halenvy"

[strivingobserver98]

On Halal Envy.

There is a type of envy (حَسَد) which was described as acceptable by the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) - this has been described as غِبطة. It pertains to anyone who has been granted more than you - in wealth or knowledge - and spreads it in the service of humanity, so you wish you could do likewise.

I have halal envy for those who surpass me in my chosen speciality, Tafsir and Quranic studies. Likewise, I halenvy those who have broader and deeper understanding of language, hadith, fiqh and history. They can clarify and contextualise those things that I know, or think I know.

But I'll tell you who I don't halenvy at all: those who are experts in the differences between people and the flaws of their opponents. That is knowledge I just don't need, and don't have time to worry about.

- Sohaib Saeed

 

[noraina]

To compete in good deeds for the sake of Allah SWT is always a good thing,

Reminded me of this hadith, Umar ibn Al-Khattab reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, ordered us to give charity and at the time I possessed some wealth. I said to myself, “If there is a day I can do better than Abu Bakr, then this is the one.” So I went with half of my wealth to the Messenger of Allah and he said, “What have you left for your family?” I said, “The same amount.” Then Abu Bakr came with everything he had. The Prophet said, “O Abu Bakr, what have you left for your family?” He said, “Allah and His messenger.” I said, “By Allah, I will never do better than Abu Bakr.”