Factors Leading to the Loss of Blessings in Wealth
The withdrawal of blessings from wealth has various causes. Below are some of the most significant factors:
Usury (Riba)
Allah Almighty states: “Allah obliterates usury, but He gives increase for charities. And Allah does not like every sinful disbeliever.” The loss of blessings can occur through wealth obtained via usury. Additionally, many individuals are unaware of the rules surrounding usury and financial transactions, often unknowingly falling into prohibited practices.
Excessive Swearing During Sales
Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against swearing frequently during sales transactions, indicating that such behavior diminishes blessings. He stated: “Swearing is a method that increases sales but diminishes blessings.” The loss of blessings is exacerbated when the swearing is insincere, even if the wealth appears to increase outwardly.
Concealing Defects in Goods During Sales
The Prophet (peace be upon him) pointed out that concealing the flaws of goods can lead to the loss of blessings in wealth. He mentioned: “Both sellers have the choice until they part ways. If they are truthful and disclose all details, they will be blessed in their trade; if they conceal and lie, the blessings of their trade will be eliminated.” Thus, it is better for the seller to receive a fair price for a known defective item than to earn a large sum unblessed by hiding flaws.
Failure to Show Gratitude for Bounty
This manifests through a lack of appreciation for Allah’s blessings or denying His generosity. Allah says: “And [mention] when your Lord proclaimed: If you are grateful, I will surely increase your favor; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.” The severe punishment refers to the deprivation of blessings from those who are ungrateful.
Sins
Sins are generally a reason for the tribulations that befall people, with one of the consequences being the removal of blessings from their wealth. True blessings can only be restored through sincere repentance to Allah. As narrated by Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him): “No calamity befalls due to sin, and no calamity is lifted except through repentance.”
Withholding Zakat
Withholding zakat from those who are entitled to it can lead to the loss of blessings in wealth. This affects not only financial blessings but also extends to other forms of prosperity, such as the cessation of rainfall, which Allah sends to nourish His creation. Allah says: “If the people of the villages had believed and feared Allah, We would have opened up to them blessings from the heavens and the earth.” According to a long authentic hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: “They did not withhold the zakat of their wealth except that they were prevented from rain from the sky.”
Frugality, Extravagance, and Lack of Balance
Allah commands: “And do not make your hand as chained to your neck or extended completely, and [there is] no balance, lest you sit condemned and reproachful.” The miser hoards the blessings of his wealth, failing to benefit himself or others, while the extravagant quickly squanders his blessings. Balanced spending sustains blessings and ensures that wealth lasts without being hoarded or dissipated quickly.