Alright, let’s be real for a second. You’re scrolling through Instagram, and there it is, your high school friend just bought a Tesla, someone else is posting their engagement pics in Bali, and your cousin is now a certified life coach-slash-chef-slash-influencer with a blue checkmark. Meanwhile, you’re over here debating whether to DoorDash Taco Bell or finally try that sad kale salad in your fridge. Sound familiar?
Jealousy, or hasad in Arabic, is a sneaky little thing. It creeps in, whispers, “Why not me?” and before you know it, you’re doom-scrolling through other people’s highlight reels, feeling like you’ve drawn the short straw in life. Don’t worry, though; you’re not alone. Even the best of us have moments of envy. The key is figuring out how to deal with it in a way that brings peace, not more stress. And guess what? The Quran has you covered. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Jealousy 101: A Heart Check
First, let’s understand what’s happening here. Jealousy isn’t just about wanting what someone else has; it’s also about feeling like there’s not enough goodness in the world for everyone. But Islam teaches us that Allah’s blessings are limitless. He says in the Quran:
“And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:32)
Translation? Stay in your lane, friend. Allah’s got a plan for everyone, and it’s custom-made. Your Tesla, Bali trip, or blue checkmark? It’s coming, or maybe something even better. Trust the process.
Practical Tip 1: Count Your Own Blessings
You know that cheesy gratitude journal you bought last Ramadan? Time to dust it off. The Quran says:
“If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor].” (Surah Ibrahim 14:7)
Think of gratitude as a muscle, the more you flex it, the stronger it gets. Start small. Write down three things you’re grateful for every day. Bonus points if you say “Alhamdulillah” after each one. Before you know it, you’ll be so busy appreciating your own blessings that you won’t have time to covet someone else’s.
Practical Tip 2: Dua Is Your Secret Weapon
Here’s a pro tip: when you see someone thriving, make dua for them. Yep, you heard me. Instead of side-eyeing their success, say, “MashaAllah, may Allah increase them in goodness.” Why? Because it’s a win-win. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“No Muslim servant supplicates for his brother behind his back but that the angel says: ‘And for you the same.’” (Sahih Muslim)
So basically, every time you pray for someone else’s glow-up, you’re inviting one for yourself. Genius, right?
Practical Tip 3: Social Media Detox (or At Least a Filter)
Let’s not sugarcoat it: social media is a jealousy factory. Every scroll is like a free trial of FOMO. If you’re finding it hard to be happy for others, maybe it’s time for a break. The Quran reminds us:
“Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart, about all those [one] will be questioned.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:36)
That means being mindful of what you’re exposing yourself to. Unfollow accounts that make you feel less-than, and follow those that inspire you instead. Curate your feed so it serves your deen and mental health, not your insecurities.
Practical Tip 4: Redefine Success
Here’s a wild thought: what if success isn’t about Teslas or Bali trips at all? Islam teaches us that real success is spiritual, not material. Allah says:
“And whoever is removed from the Fire and admitted to Paradise, he indeed is successful.” (Surah Aal-e-Imran 3:185)
So the next time you feel jealousy creeping in, remind yourself of the ultimate goal: Jannah. Focus on building your akhirah portfolio with good deeds, not just your dunya highlight reel.
Lighten Up: A Happy Muslim Vibe
Jealousy thrives in seriousness and self-pity. So flip the script! Laugh at yourself, share your struggles with a friend, and remember that life is a test, and sometimes, it’s a funny one. Ever tried to bake a Pinterest-worthy cake only for it to look like a lopsided pancake? Same. Life’s too short to dwell on what you don’t have when you could be enjoying what you do.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, jealousy is just a reminder that we’re human. It’s not about eliminating the feeling altogether; it’s about redirecting it. Use it as a cue to turn back to Allah, recalibrate your heart, and focus on your own blessings. And hey, next time you’re tempted to envy someone’s Tesla, remember: it’s not going to help them on Judgment Day. But your gratitude and dua? That’s eternal gold.
So, young Zen Muslims, let’s reclaim our joy, one Alhamdulillah at a time. Deal? Deal. Now go enjoy that kale salad (or Taco Bell, no judgment).