In a world that measures success by wealth, status, and influence, Islam beautifully reminds us that true success lies not in what we own, but in who we are before Allah. The modern pursuit of success often centers around material gain bigger houses, better cars, higher salaries, and worldly recognition. Yet, in the sight of Allah, these mean nothing if they are not coupled with Taqwa the consciousness and fear of Allah that guides the believer’s heart and actions.
SUCCESS REDEFINED BY ALLAH
Allah redefines success in the Qur’an in a way that contrasts sharply with worldly definitions. He says:
“Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.”
(Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:13)
The truly successful person, therefore, is not the one with overflowing wealth or worldly achievements, but the one whose heart is rich in faith, humility, and obedience. Wealth may elevate one’s status in the eyes of people, but only Taqwa elevates one’s rank in the sight of Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also said:
“Allah does not look at your appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This hadith powerfully reminds us that outward success means little without inner sincerity. Our Creator judges by the purity of our intentions and the righteousness of our actions, not the size of our bank accounts or the number of followers we have.
THE DECEPTION OF WORLDLY SUCCESS
Wealth in itself is not evil in fact, it can be a blessing when earned and used in a halal way. But the danger lies in becoming attached to it, allowing it to define our worth or distract us from our purpose. Many chase riches thinking it will bring peace, only to find emptiness when they attain it.
The Qur’an warns us of this illusion:
“Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting among yourselves and competition in increase of wealth and children…”
(Surah Al-Hadid, 57:20)
The glitter of the dunya fades quickly, while the value of Taqwa endures eternally. The wealth that impresses others cannot buy peace of heart, forgiveness of sins, or entry into Jannah but Taqwa can.
WEALTH IN THE HEART, NOT THE HAND
True richness is not having an abundance of possessions, but having contentment and gratitude within. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Richness is not having many possessions, but richness is being content with oneself.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
This contentment comes from Taqwa from trusting Allah’s plan, being grateful for His blessings, and recognizing that every gain and every loss is part of His divine wisdom. The believer with Taqwa feels peace even in poverty, while the one without it feels restless even in abundance.
TAQWA: THE PATH TO REAL SUCCESS
Taqwa transforms every aspect of life. It guides how we earn, how we spend, how we speak, and how we treat others. It builds integrity, kindness, humility, and accountability before Allah. A person with Taqwa seeks Allah’s pleasure above all, knowing that the true measure of success will not be revealed in this world, but on the Day of Judgment.
On that day, titles, wealth, and achievements will be stripped away. Only faith and righteous deeds will remain. As Allah says:
“Whoever is protected from the greed of his soul it is those who will be the successful.”
(Surah Al-Hashr, 59:9)
CONCLUSION
Success in Islam is not measured by the size of your wealth, but by the strength of your Taqwa. It is not about how much you accumulate, but how sincerely you obey and trust Allah. The truly successful person is not the one who conquers the world, but the one who conquers their desires for the sake of Allah.
May Allah grant us hearts rich with Taqwa, wealth that humbles us, and success that brings us closer to Him not further away.
Ameen.
