The Failure of Relying on Mortals
At the root of humanity’s greatest disappointments in this world lies trusting material possessions, wealth, or positions as if they were eternal. Wealth, status, or people are like shadows that can slip away at any moment. “How can you rely on the material and transient things you possess? They will inevitably leave your grasp.” To tie oneself to fleeting objects and abandon trust in Allah, who is Eternal and Immutable, is a form of madness.
Contentment as the Greatest Treasure
True wealth is not measured by the fullness of bank accounts but by the heart’s feeling of needlessness (istiğna). “Trusting in the Divine Essence is the greatest wealth.” Geylani (may Allah be pleased with him) summarizes this spiritual satisfaction with the following advice: “A person should possess contentment, not greed. Contentment is an inexhaustible treasure. The things that are meant for you in this world are predetermined. They do not go to others.
The Heart’s Attainment of Freedom
A person who reins in greed and is content with the lawful provision they have, escapes being a slave to the world and becomes its master. The one who completely removes the world from their heart does not disrupt their spiritual balance, whether their possessions increase or decrease. True freedom is possessing a perfect heart that is satisfied only and solely by Allah’s pleasure, escaping the prison of transient expectations.