Being cognizant of our finances and having a strong hold on our spending ensures a stable present and future when we’re already bombarded with numerous responsibilities.
Islam also encourages us to manage our money wisely and optimize our resources with care because, as Muslims, we have a duty to contribute to our families and community.
Above all, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) explained to us how the giving hand is always better than the receiving hand, which we can only make possible by proper financial management. He said,
“The upper hand is better than the lower hand (i.e. he who gives in charity is better than him who takes it). One should start giving first to his dependents. And the best object of charity is that which is given by a wealthy person (from the money which is left after his expenses).” – [Sahih Bukhari: 1427]
Not to mention, Islam also discourages poor wealth management. It reminds us not to share our wealth with someone who is incapable of managing it as it may disrupt our own financial stability and land us in deep water in times of financial crisis.
Allah SWT says in the Qur’an:
“And do not give the weak-minded your property, which Allāh has made a means of sustenance for you, but provide for them with it and clothe them and speak to them words of appropriate kindness.” – [Surah an-Nisa: 5]
That said, here are 3 Islamic tips we can follow to manage our finances better:
1- Act Responsible
As a responsible Muslim, we must ensure our money is utilized on beneficial purposes. That includes giving a comfortable life to our families and making generous contributions to the community struggling due to financial circumstances.
Narrated Abdullah bin Umar RA, the Prophet SAW said:
“Every one of you is a guardian and every one of you is responsible (for his wards).” – [Sahih Bukhari: 5188]
2- Avoid Overspending
Prophet Muhammad SAW also emphasized not to waste wealth unnecessarily. While it may be alright to spend money on making people happy when it is within our budget, it is undoubtedly wrong when our money is never being used to feed the poor, help the orphans, or on other good causes.
Abu Huraira RA reported Allah's Messenger SAW saying:
“Verily Allah likes three things for you and He disapproves three things for you. He is pleased with you that you worship Him and associate nor anything with Him, that you hold fast the rope of Allah, and be not scattered; and He disapproves of your irrelevant talk, persistent questioning and the wasting of wealth.” – [Sahih Muslim: 1715(a)]
3- Stay Humble and Grateful
Lastly, it is vital to stay mindful of our actions, contemplating how they may affect society in general. Before assuming that we lack anything, we must always look at our surroundings and see the less fortunate ones who are grateful to Allah even when living with fewer resources.
“And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'” – [Surah Ibrahim: 7]
May Allah bless us all with success, health, happiness, strength, and patience. Ameen.
