The Balance in Spending Wealth: Guidance from Surah Al-Furqan Verse 67

Devin Halim Wijaya13 October 2024

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Surah Al-Furqan verse 67 provides essential guidance for Muslims on how to manage their wealth wisely. Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala says:

“وَالَّذِينَ إِذَا أَنفَقُوا۟ لَمْ يُسْرِفُوا۟ وَلَمْ يَقْتُرُوا۟ وَكَانَ بَيْنَ ذَٰلِكَ قَوَامًا”
(“And those who, when they spend, do so not excessively or sparingly but hold a middle way between those extremes.”)
— (Surah Al-Furqan: 67).

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance when spending wealth. Muslims are instructed to avoid two extremes: wastefulness (israf) and miserliness (bukhl). Both traits are condemned as they are harmful not only to the individual but also to society.

Understanding Balance in Spending

In Islamic teachings, balance in spending refers to the practice of using wealth wisely and proportionally. This does not only apply to material goods but also reflects an overall approach to managing one’s resources. A true believer is someone who uses their wealth effectively, not squandering it on unnecessary things nor withholding it when it is needed.

Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala also advises moderation in other aspects of life, such as in eating and drinking:

“كُلُواْ وَٱشْرَبُواْ وَلَا تُسْرِفُوٓاْ ۚ إِنَّهُۥ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلْمُسْرِفِينَ”
(“Eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.”)
— (Surah Al-A’raf: 31).

This verse underlines the importance of moderation not just in financial matters but in all areas of life.

Also read:Islamic Perspective on Saving: Between Virtue and Excess

The Dangers of Extravagance (Israf) and Stinginess (Bukhl)

Both israf (extravagance) and bukhl (stinginess) carry severe consequences for individuals and society. Extravagance leads to unnecessary consumption and waste, draining wealth on things that bring no lasting benefit. Individuals who live extravagantly may eventually face financial ruin and societal disapproval due to their excesses.

On the other hand, stinginess prevents wealth from circulating among society. Those who are miserly hold back their wealth, even when it is necessary to spend on themselves, their families, or to help those in need. Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala warns against stinginess in Surah Al-Hasyr:

“وَمَن يُوقَ شُحَّ نَفْسِهِۦ فَأُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلْمُفْلِحُونَ”
(“And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul, it is those who will be the successful.”)
— (Surah Al-Hasyr: 9).

This verse teaches that true success comes from being generous when it is necessary while maintaining a balanced approach in spending.

The Role of Intention in Spending

In Islam, intention (niyyah) plays a crucial role in every action, including spending wealth. If the intention behind spending is to seek the pleasure of Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala, it becomes an act of worship. However, if it is done to show off or to seek admiration from others, it will not bring the same reward. Prophet Muhammad shallallahu alaihi wa sallam said:

“Actions are judged by intentions, and everyone will be rewarded according to what he intended.”
— (Hadith narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1, and Muslim, no. 1907).

This hadith reinforces the importance of having sincere intentions in every deed, including charitable giving.

Also read:Islamic Insurance? Is it real? How to do it?

Spending as an Act of Worship

In Islam, spending wealth is more than a social responsibility; it is an act of worship. Every form of wealth that one has is a trust from Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala, and Muslims are accountable for how they manage it. Spending wealth in a balanced way, without falling into excess or miserliness, ensures that the wealth brings benefits to both the individual and society.

Maintaining this balance aligns with Islamic values, which promote moderation (wasatiyyah) in every aspect of life. Balanced spending leads to barakah (blessing), ensuring that wealth is used in ways that are beneficial both spiritually and materially.

Conclusion

Surah Al-Furqan verse 67 serves as a clear reminder of the importance of maintaining balance in spending wealth. Muslims are encouraged to avoid the extremes of extravagance and stinginess, instead practicing moderation. Balanced spending not only benefits the individual but also strengthens the bonds of community, fostering generosity, and mutual support. By following this guidance, a Muslim can ensure that their wealth is spent in ways that bring blessings in this life and the hereafter.

Also read:The Islamic Perspective on Wealth and Possession