Time is one of the greatest blessings Allah has given us, yet it is also one of the most neglected. Unlike wealth or health, time can never be regained once it slips away. In Islam, time is not just a resource it is an amanah (trust) from Allah. When used wisely, it brings barakah (blessing), but when wasted, it becomes a source of regret.
The Value of Time in the Qur’an
Allah ﷻ swears by time itself, showing its immense importance:
“By time, indeed mankind is in loss except for those who believe and do righteous deeds, and encourage one another to truth and patience.”
(Surah Al-Asr, 103:1-3)This powerful surah teaches that without purposeful use of time, humanity is in loss.
The Prophet’s ﷺ Reminder
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“There are two blessings which many people waste: health and free time.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
This hadith highlights that free time, like health, is often undervalued until it is gone.
What is Barakah in Time?
Barakah means divine increase and goodness. A person may have the same 24 hours as everyone else, but with barakah, they achieve more in both dunya and akhirah. With barakah, small actions carry great rewards, and tasks are completed with ease and purpose.
How to Gain Barakah in Time
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Begin with Fajr – Early morning hours are full of blessing. The Prophet ﷺ prayed for barakah in the mornings of his ummah.
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Prioritize Salah – Structuring the day around prayer keeps time disciplined and purposeful.
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Make Dhikr and Dua – Remembrance of Allah fills time with light and reward.
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Avoid Wasting Time – Guard against distractions, gossip, and idle activities.
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Serve Others – Time spent in helping others multiplies in blessing.
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Set Intentions (Niyyah) – Even daily tasks like eating, working, or resting can become worship if done with the right intention.
A Mindful Approach to Time
Islam teaches balance: working for dunya without neglecting akhirah, and preparing for akhirah without abandoning responsibilities in dunya. The believer sees every moment as an opportunity either to draw closer to Allah or to serve creation.
Conclusion
Time is life itself. Its barakah is not measured in hours but in impact, purpose, and sincerity. By aligning our days with salah, filling them with remembrance, and avoiding heedlessness, we transform ordinary moments into eternal rewards. Truly, the barakah of time is a gift for those who value it.
