Ninth Reflection: The Fitnah of Wealth

Evidences: The Prophet ﷺ said: "Every Ummah has a fitnah, and the fitnah of my Ummah is wealth." [Narrated by At-Tirmidhi, ḥadīth number 2336, from Ka’b ibn ’Iyāḍh Al-Ash’ari, may Allāh be pleased with him] He ﷺ also said: "But I fear for you that the world will be spread out before you, as it was spread out for those who came before you. You will compete for it as they competed, and it will destroy you as it destroyed them." [Agreed upon from ’Amr ibn ’Awf, may Allāh be pleased with him] Benefits and Rulings: -> Our noble Prophet ﷺ informed us that the fitnah of this Ummah is wealth -> Competing for worldly gains is a cause of destruction -> and that doing so resembles the behaviour of those who came before us, who were ruined by their attachment to it. Assessing Charity Organisations in Light of These Principles: Members of these charity organisations have a significant share in competing for worldly gains, particularly among those affiliated with religion, knowledge, and Da’wah. As a result, this led to a great trial and destruction—the very danger that the Messenger of Allāh ﷺ feared for us. Discussion: It is deeply regrettable to see someone who once embraced asceticism and was devoted to seeking knowledge purely for the sake of Allāh lose their passion and become preoccupied with worldly pursuits. Their determination fades, and their focus shifts toward material aspirations. Even if they continue their studies, it is merely to obtain certificates and achieve worldly recognition. This applies to those engaged in knowledge, while for those with no real dedication to learning, the situation is even worse. If charity organisations had no other negative impact than the immense harm they have inflicted on many preachers—diverting them from their true purpose, dividing them, and enlisting them for their own interests—that alone would be sufficient cause for concern. Individuals who could have greatly benefitted the Ummah are now seen travelling from place to place, constantly expressing their "needs" and seeking financial support. If they hear of the passing of a wealthy individual, they rush to attend the mourning gatherings, searching for any inheritance left behind—especially if the deceased was a woman who owned gold or similar valuables. They proclaim, "We will do this and that," while at that time, people's hearts are inclined toward acts of goodness.