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Tawakkul in Investment Return

Devin Halim Wijaya10 June 2025

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Introduction: Analyzing Tawakkul in the Context of Finance

One fundamental principle of Islam is tawakkul (توكّل) which means having total faith in Allah ﷻ and acting appropriately at the same time. It promotes a healthy balance between effort and trust rather than fatalism or the passive acceptance of results. Tawakkul is essential for coordinating financial choices with spiritual principles in the context of wealth management and investment. Since Allah ﷻ alone has decreed rizq (sustenance) investors are encouraged to make morally sound decisions while ultimately depending on Him for the results.

The Harmony of Trust and Planning

The main fallacy regarding tawakkul is that it eliminates the necessity of preparation and work. In actuality Islam exhorts followers to aim for excellence (ihsan) in all of their undertakings including budgeting. Setting objectives, evaluating risks, diversifying portfolios and keeping an eye on market trends are all necessary for successful investing. All of these are practical actions but they must be combined with humility in acknowledging that Allah alone has ultimate authority over outcomes.

An example from the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ life illustrates this balance. A man once asked the Prophet: “Should I tie my camel or trust in Allah?” The Prophet ﷺ replied, “Tie it and trust in Allah” (Tirmidhi: 2517). This hadith serves as a metaphor for prudent financial behavior: take the necessary precautions, do the due diligence, and then leave the rest to Allah ﷻ. Tawakkul, therefore, completes the circle of effort and submission.

Also read: Tawakkul in the Job Searching Process

Rizq (Sustenance)’s Nature and Tawakkul

From an Islamic standpoint rizq or sustenance is not exclusively based on strategic investment or market performance. In the Quran Allah ﷻ states:

“And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him.”
(Surah At-Talaq, 65:3)

This verse serves as a reminder to investors that the Creator not them is in charge of their sustenance. A believer finds comfort in the knowledge that Allah ﷻ is the Best of Providers regardless of how abundant or insignificant the returns may be. The idea of tawakkul on rizq highlights this patience and submission. Both investors and businesspeople who lose should not give up and those who win should not brag as both are a part of Allah ﷻ’s divine plan and test.

Also read: Tawakkul in Islam: When Surrender Meets Hard Work

How Investors and Traders Use Tawakkul

Tawakkul is a persistent way of thinking rather than an isolated emotion. The following are some ways that traders and investors can attain true tawakkul:

Avoiding dubious or prohibited financial instruments and only transacting in halal.
Maintaining good intentions motivated by the desire to make money legally rather than by greed.
Keeping Allah in mind on a regular basis (dhikr) particularly when making important choices.
Being positive with results while working to enhance their investment or business plans.

Panic selling and avaricious overinvesting are examples of emotional responses to market volatility that can be avoided with this mentality. It fosters a feeling of emotional stability based on religion.

Also read: Tawakkal in Business Fundraising

Clarity and Confidence are Brought About by Tawakkul

Tawakkul promotes decision-making clarity and confidence. The fear of losing money or the delusion of control do not stop a Muslim investor from placing their faith in Allah ﷻ. They pray plan and act but they maintain composure in the face of ambiguity. As a result of their spiritual maturity they are able to put long-term objectives ahead of immediate profits or losses. Moreover ethical investing is consistent with this spiritual approach. Tawakkul investors are unlikely to sacrifice morals in order to increase profits. They understand that true barakah or blessing is found in the source and intent of wealth rather than in the quantity.

Also read: Balance Between Worldly Life and Hereafter According to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

In Conclusion

Tawakkul in investment return refers to balancing devotion and diligence. While putting their faith in Allah ﷻ’s will it teaches Muslims to behave sensibly in financial matters. Tawakkul relieves the strain of results and replaces it with resilience inner peace and trust. Tawakkul serves as a reminder that in a world where material wealth is valued by Allah ﷻ -the ultimate Provider- not the market.