The Impact of Haram on the Soul and Body
Islam emphasizes that a person’s perfection lies not only in their acts of worship but also in the purity of the food they consume. Abdülkadir Geylani (q.s.), a great guide on the path of spirituality, expresses the destructive effects of forbidden sustenance on the human soul with a shocking language. He says, “O poison-eater, you will see its signs in your body tomorrow. Forbidden food is poison to the body of religion,” reminding us that forbidden earnings are a deadly poison that corrodes the foundation of faith from within. A person intoxicated by worldly greed, pursuing profit without distinguishing between halal and haram, not only oppresses their own soul but also “denies truth and reality.” It is impossible for divine lights and contemplation to dwell in a heart filled with forbidden and questionable sustenance.
Knowing Blessings from Allah and Spending
A person’s wealth and assets are absolutely a trust bestowed upon them by Allah. If a person does not appreciate these blessings, fails to fulfill their obligation (zakat, sadaqah), and selfishly keeps them, they will face a great calamity. Geylani emphasizes how stinginess poisons the soul, saying, “Keeping blessings hidden is like poison to the religion.” Those who see the blessing only as a personal treasure and do not spend it in the way of Allah await a bitter end: “Soon, Allah Almighty will question you, and because you did not appreciate your blessing, He will reduce you to poverty. You will appear among people with a beggar’s face.” For the gratitude for a blessing is fulfilled only by knowing its true owner and distributing it generously in accordance with His pleasure.
Trusting in Ar-Razzaq, Not in Means
Islam commands working to secure sustenance. Indeed, the saying “Eating through work is a tradition; it is the habit of the Prophet (PBUH). Eat by working” strongly rejects laziness. However, a believer, while working in their field, shop, or workplace, must believe that the one who provides sustenance is not the employer or customer but Allah, Ar-Razzaq. Relying solely on means and forgetting the Cause (Al-Musabbib) is a hidden form of shirk. The person who expects sustenance only from Allah, understands that their work is merely a spiritual veil and a duty of servitude, is freed from anxiety about sustenance and eats every morsel as a divine bounty (halal).