Jealousy (Hasad) and hatred are among the most destructive emotional diseases that can infect the human soul.
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| Jealousy and Hatred: The Deadly Diseases of the Soul in Islam |
Jealousy (Hasad) and hatred are among the most destructive emotional diseases that can infect the human soul. These harmful traits not only ruin personal peace but also poison relationships, societies, and even entire nations. In the light of Islam, these inner diseases are strongly condemned and believers are urged to purify their hearts from them.
What is Jealousy (Hasad)?
Jealousy, or hasad in Arabic, is the desire to see someone’s happiness, success, or wealth taken away and be given to oneself instead. It arises when a person becomes upset by the blessings others enjoy and wishes for their removal.
Examples of Jealous Behavior:
- Wishing someone fails in their good deeds or path.
- Desiring that someone's wealth or happiness be destroyed.
- Feeling angry or sad at another’s success.
These are the early signs of jealousy and are spiritually dangerous.
The Destructive Effects of Jealousy in Society
Jealousy doesn’t just harm the person who feels it; it also damages personal, family, and social bonds.
Consequences Include:
- Family quarrels and misunderstandings.
- Social divisions and conflicts.
- Emotional distress for both the jealous person and the target.
- Miserable relationships filled with mistrust and tension.
The Quran clearly warns against such harmful behavior:
"Do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty?"
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:54)
Jealousy and Hatred: A Deadly Combination
Jealousy often leads to hatred, and together they form a contagious disease that eats away at one’s good deeds. These traits develop from:
- Low mentality and insecurity
- Greed for wealth, power, or fame
- Fear of others’ success
- Arrogance and selfishness
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) clearly warned:
“Beware of jealousy, for it eats up good deeds like fire consumes wood.”
(Abu Dawud)
The Worst Outcome of Jealousy
When jealousy intensifies, it turns into envy, which can lead to violent actions—even murder. A jealous person may not be able to tolerate any good in others and may resort to harming them in secret or openly.
The Quran advises us to seek protection from such evil:
“And seek refuge in Allah from the evil of the envier when he envies.”
(Surah Al-Falaq, 113:5)
Common Causes of Jealousy in Daily Life
Jealousy can stem from various situations:
- Personal rivalries and comparisons
- Fear of being left behind
- Power struggles or leadership ambitions
- Suspicion and negative assumptions
- Pride, arrogance, or stinginess
- Feeling threatened by others’ talent or popularity
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 servants of Allah as brothers.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)
The Dangerous Consequences of Hatred
Hatred is an extreme form of ill feeling toward others and is equally condemned in Islam. It can lead to:
- Refusal to forgive
- Ongoing grudges
- Violent disputes
- Damaged faith and character
A Hadith says:
“The sins of three people are not forgiven: one who is addicted to alcohol, one who disobeys his parents, and one who harbors hatred in his heart.”
(Hadith Sharif)
Another Hadith from Muslim Sharif warns:
“Every Monday and Thursday, people’s deeds are presented. All are forgiven except those who bear hatred—they are told to wait until they reconcile.”
How Jealousy and Hatred Ruin Religious Character
A true believer’s character should reflect peace, love, and harmony. Jealousy and hatred create obstacles in developing a sound Islamic character and can lead to:
- Fighting and disputes
- Division among believers
- Ruin of religious and moral values
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The disease of earlier nations—hatred and enmity—is creeping into you. It is not hair loss I worry about, but the destruction of your religion.”
(Tirmidhi and Ahmad)
Islam’s Solution to Jealousy and Hatred
Islam promotes love, forgiveness, and contentment to overcome these diseases of the heart. The following are effective ways to cure jealousy and hatred:
1. Contentment with Allah’s Provisions
Be happy with what Allah has given you. Trust that His distribution of wealth and blessings is wise and fair.
2. Sincere Dua for Others
Make a habit of praying for others’ success. This softens the heart and reduces envy.
3. Practice Gratitude
Focus on your own blessings. Gratitude is a powerful antidote to jealousy.
4. Self-Purification (Tazkiyah)
Work on inner purification by regularly seeking forgiveness and engaging in good deeds.
5. Brotherhood and Unity
Build bonds of brotherhood. Treat every person as a fellow servant of Allah deserving love and respect.
A Peaceful Heart Brings a Peaceful Life
Jealousy and hatred only bring pain, restlessness, and sin. Islam teaches that a refined heart, free of such negativity, is a source of strength, not weakness.
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) gave a clear instruction:
"Do not hate, do not envy, do not turn your backs on each other, and be brothers as Allah has commanded you."
Conclusion: Purify the Heart, Strengthen the Soul
Jealousy and hatred are among the worst diseases of the soul. They poison relationships, destroy good deeds, and bring a person away from Allah’s mercy. Islam, through the teachings of the Quran and Hadith, offers clear guidance on how to overcome these harmful traits.
Believers must strive for self-purification, practice contentment, and spread love and unity. Only then can society achieve the peace, harmony, and brotherhood that Islam envisions for all.
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