Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) says in the Quran,
“But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.” (Surah Al-Qasas, 28:77)
This verse is a beautiful and comprehensive guideline for a balanced life, incorporating spiritual, worldly, and social responsibilities. It addresses how a believer should approach wealth, blessings, and the opportunities Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) provides in life. Let’s break it down into its key components and explore its deeper meanings.
1. “But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter…”
This part of the verse emphasizes the ultimate purpose of life: to work for the Hereafter. The blessings and provisions Allah grants us—whether wealth, knowledge, skills, or influence—are tools for earning eternal rewards. They are not given to indulge in heedless luxury but to use in a way that draws us closer to Allah and ensures success in the Hereafter.
Key Lessons:
- Prioritize the Hereafter: No matter how much wealth or resources we accumulate, they are temporary. The Hereafter is eternal, so our efforts must focus on securing our place there.
- Using Blessings as Tools: Wealth is not inherently evil, but its misuse can lead to corruption and ruin. Allah encourages us to use our blessings for good, such as giving charity, helping others, and supporting just causes.
Practical Application:
A wealthy person might use their resources to build schools, fund orphanages, or support the poor. Similarly, someone with knowledge could teach others and spread beneficial information. Whatever Allah has given, it must be directed toward fulfilling a higher, eternal purpose.
2. “…and [yet], do not forget your share of the world.”
This phrase highlights the need for balance. Islam does not advocate abandoning worldly pursuits entirely. While striving for the Hereafter, believers are encouraged to enjoy the permissible blessings of this world and take care of their worldly needs.
Key Lessons:
- Balanced Living: Islam rejects asceticism that denies worldly pleasures altogether. At the same time, it warns against materialism that distracts from the Hereafter.
- Enjoy Halal Pleasures: The world is a place of testing but also a source of blessings. Allah has permitted us to enjoy food, family, wealth, and comforts within lawful boundaries.
- Self-Care: Seeking one’s share of the world also includes taking care of oneself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Neglecting personal well-being under the guise of worship or overburdening oneself is discouraged in Islam.
Practical Application:
Engage in lawful business, work hard for a livelihood, and enjoy halal leisure activities. At the same time, remember that wealth and enjoyment are not ends in themselves but means to serve Allah.
3. “And do good as Allah has done good to you.”
This part of the verse emphasizes gratitude and generosity. Allah reminds us that the blessings we enjoy are not due to our own efforts alone but are a manifestation of His mercy and kindness. In turn, we are required to show kindness to others and contribute positively to society.
Key Lessons:
- Be Grateful: Recognize that every blessing—health, wealth, knowledge, or influence—comes from Allah. Gratitude should be expressed through action, not just words.
- Imitate Divine Mercy: Just as Allah has been kind and merciful to us, we must extend that kindness to others. This includes acts of charity, justice, and selflessness.
- Social Responsibility: Islam stresses the importance of being a source of good for others, whether through monetary help, emotional support, or advocating for justice.
Practical Application:
If Allah has blessed you with wealth, share it generously. If you have knowledge, teach others. If you hold a position of influence, use it to uplift those who are marginalized.
4. “And desire not corruption in the land…”
Corruption in this context refers to any action that disrupts the natural order, justice, and harmony established by Allah. This includes greed, oppression, dishonesty, exploitation, environmental harm, and the spreading of immorality.
Key Lessons:
- Avoid Injustice: Wealth, power, or influence should never be used to oppress or exploit others.
- Respect the Earth: Corruption also extends to environmental harm. Islam teaches respect for Allah’s creation, urging believers to act as stewards of the earth.
- Moral Integrity: Corruption includes spreading immorality or causing societal harm through unethical behavior. A believer’s actions should align with Islamic principles of justice, honesty, and compassion.
Practical Application:
A businessman should avoid fraudulent practices. A leader should govern justly and ensure the welfare of the people. On an individual level, one should avoid behaviors that harm others, such as gossip, dishonesty, or wastefulness.
5. “Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.”
This concluding statement serves as both a warning and a reminder of Allah’s justice. Corruption, no matter how prevalent or normalized, is abhorrent to Allah. Those who engage in corrupt practices distance themselves from His mercy and invite His displeasure.
Key Lessons:
- Allah’s Disapproval: Corruption is not just a social or moral failing; it is a spiritual crime that incurs Allah’s wrath.
- Accountability: While corrupters may enjoy temporary success in this world, they will face severe consequences in the Hereafter.
- Avoid Temptations: The allure of power, wealth, or convenience may tempt individuals toward corrupt actions, but a believer must resist and remain steadfast on the path of righteousness.
Practical Application:
One must avoid any form of corruption, even when it seems advantageous or socially accepted. Upholding justice and integrity, even in challenging situations, is a hallmark of true faith.
Holistic Message of the Verse
This verse beautifully encapsulates Islam’s teachings on the ideal human relationship with Allah, oneself, and society:
- Spiritual Focus: Always prioritize the Hereafter, using the blessings Allah has given to secure eternal success.
- Worldly Balance: Engage with the world responsibly, enjoying halal pleasures without letting them distract from your ultimate purpose.
- Social Good: Reflect Allah’s kindness in your dealings with others, being a source of positivity and support.
- Reject Corruption: Act with integrity and avoid actions that harm individuals, communities, or the environment.
Practical Reflections for Today
In modern times, this verse offers timeless guidance. Many people either become overly focused on material success or isolate themselves in pursuit of spiritual goals. Islam provides a middle path, urging believers to balance their spiritual and worldly responsibilities.
- For Wealthy Individuals: Use wealth to uplift the less fortunate. Avoid pride and remember that your blessings are a trust from Allah.
- For Professionals: Pursue excellence in your field but ensure your work contributes to society rather than causing harm.
- For Activists and Leaders: Strive to uphold justice and combat corruption, keeping Allah’s pleasure as your ultimate goal.
Conclusion
Surah Al-Qasas (28:77) is a profound reminder of the balanced and holistic life that Islam advocates. It teaches us to prioritize the Hereafter while fulfilling our worldly responsibilities, to do good as a reflection of Allah’s mercy, and to resist the temptations of corruption and injustice.
By internalizing and implementing the lessons of this verse, we can lead lives that are not only pleasing to Allah but also beneficial to ourselves and the world around us. This is the path to true success—both in this world and in the eternal Hereafter.
