Reasons for the Restriction of Sustenance
The following are some key factors:
- The abandonment of the means to seek sustenance by an individual, out of reliance on fate and a lack of action.
- Consuming illicit or questionable sources of income.
- Greed and stinginess.
- Disbelief in God’s blessings and disdain for His gifts, even if one perceives them as minimal.
- Engaging in acts of polytheism that contradict the essence of servitude, such as swearing by other than Allah, sacrificing to others, and believing that benefit and harm come from the deceased.
- Neglecting the Book of Allah and mistakenly believing in the superiority of man-made laws.
- Attributing blessings to those who do not deserve them, namely to anyone other than Allah, the Provider.
- Becoming overly preoccupied with the pursuit of wealth to the detriment of fulfilling obligatory acts. It is Allah who provides for His servants and commands them to devote specific times for Him amidst worldly distractions.
- A Muslim’s failure to pay zakat (charity) on their wealth, which can lead to a decrease in rainfall.
- Committing sins and transgressions, which can block sustenance and diminish its blessings; this is the misfortune of disobedience.
Causes that Attract Sustenance
Among them are:
- The diligent pursuit of sustenance and the adoption of appropriate means for its achievement, such as agriculture, trade, employment, craftsmanship, or other methods thought to bring about provision.
- Obeying Allah’s commands, avoiding what He prohibits, and exhibiting piety and obedience.
- Engaging in frequent repentance, reliance on Allah, and seeking His assistance.
- Regularly supplicating to Allah for sustenance, as He is the Sustainer.
- Expressing gratitude and praise to Allah for His blessings and sustenance, as gratitude is associated with an increase.
- Maintaining regular prayer and encouraging family members to do the same.
- Establishing monotheism, maintaining family ties, giving in charity, marrying, and alternating between performing Hajj and Umrah.
The Issue of Sustenance
Allah, the Almighty, is the Sole Provider. He created the universe and ordained sustenance without any effort or hardship. He possesses the capacity to grant abundance to all of creation if they ask of Him, and His giving does not deplete His treasure. The provision of sustenance for humanity is guaranteed by Allah; however, individuals must endeavor to secure it. Islam encourages hard work and earning a living while discouraging laziness and idleness.