We often ask ourselves, “How can we achieve financial success when the system around us is filled with usury and far from Sharia principles?” Indeed, it’s not easy. Reforming the system is a long-term journey. Yet, waiting for perfection before managing our own finances is not an option. There are personal obligations we cannot ignore—often, the ones closest to us matter most.
Providing halal sustenance, paying zakat, and fulfilling other financial responsibilities are non-negotiable. While working toward improving the larger system, we must first handle what is within our control. This is where financial management becomes essential: ensuring that our worship and obedience are preserved, even in small matters.
Managing finances is not about waiting for an ideal system—it is about being mindful and consistent in fulfilling every obligation. Challenges will exist, the system may be imperfect, but neglecting what is closest to us risks missteps, diminished blessings, and loss of value in the eyes of Allah.
Financial Management Based on Financial Obligations
When talking about financial success, people often immediately think of a big salary, a successful business, or profitable investments. However, the most fundamental foundation is personal financial commitment . This is non-negotiable, as it is a Sharia-compliant obligation.
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him )
said :
“ It is enough for a person to be considered a sinner if he neglects the person who is his responsibility.” (Narrated by Abu Dawud )
This means that no matter how little wealth we have, the obligatory things must remain a priority : providing halal food for our families, paying zakat, and other clearly mandated obligations. These basic things must never be neglected, as they are the true foundation of a Muslim’s financial success.
Also read: FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) in Islamic Values
Therefore, we need to pay attention to every role in our lives, including financial obligations. Only then will we see what constitutes true financial success : when our wealth is blessed, our path is straight, and our great struggles remain unshaken.
So, financial management is crucial to meeting at least our basic obligations. From there, the doors of blessings begin to open.
Also read: Having the Right Intention in Work According to Islam
Financial Management for Greater Struggle
If our basic needs are met, our halal income is flowing, and our halal investments are secure, we shouldn’t stop there. Ultimately, we will be questioned about our wealth by Allah ﷻ :
وَعَنْ مَالِهِ مِنْ أَيْنَ اكْتَسَبَهُ وَفِيمَا أَنْفَقَه ُ
“…and about his wealth, where he gets it and what he spends it on.” (HR. Tirmidhi )
This hadith gives a clear signal that financial management is not just about thinking about the money coming in, but also about being aware of where the money is going out.
This is where the bigger struggle lies. We’re not just worrying about the floor (a basic financial obligation), but we also have to remember that the roof hasn’t been properly repaired. And the reward for solving this leaky roof is undoubtedly enormous. This means it’s a huge loss to have gone to the trouble of finding halal resources if we don’t allocate it to things that support this struggle, which carries such immense reward.
So, if the floor is clean but the roof is left leaking, the house will continue to be flooded with rain over time. Likewise, if we’re satisfied with just “having enough for ourselves” but don’t think about the struggles of the community, the leaks will affect us too.
Therefore, a Muslim’s financial success is not just about personal independence, but also about being willing to contribute to the greater cause. This is where our lives become more valuable: wealth becomes a means of living, and struggle becomes a path to piety.
Also read: The Importance of Having Multiple Sources of Income
Conclusion
If you think about it, financial success isn’t just about having a substantial savings account. The key is how we properly fulfill all our financial obligations: providing a lawful living, paying zakat and alms, and even paying attention to the community’s struggles.
Yes, the current system is like a leaky roof. But that’s no reason to stop. Because we have to manage both the floor and the roof together. This means all obligations, both personal and larger, must be managed systematically to ensure they remain achievable.
Therefore, the key lies in proper financial management . As long as our intentions are pure, God willing, each financial step we take will not only improve ourselves but also contribute to a larger struggle. And that is the path to a blessed life.
Also read: How to Avoid FOMO Spending
Let’s Visit, Zeed and join for halal investment with Zeed.
Reference:
Al-Qur’an al-Karim. Accessed from https://tafsirweb.com/7127-surat-al-qashash-ayat-77.html
At-Tirmidhi, Muhammad bin Isa. Sunan at-Tirmidhi . accessed from https://sunnah.com/tirmidhi:2417
Abu Dawud, Sulaiman ibn al-Ash’ats. Sunan Abi Dawud. Retrieved from https://sunnah.com/riyadussalihin%3A294
