A crucial question that every Muslim must answer on their life’s journey is how to strike a balance between their Duniya (worldly life) and Deen (religion). Islam does not distinguish between religion and everyday life because it is a comprehensive way of life. We learn from it that Duniya and Deen are intertwined, and that a true believer is one who handles both with sincerity, insight, and intention.
Comprehending Duniya and Deen
- Faith, spirituality, worship, and obedience to Allah (SWT) are all considered aspects of deen. Salah (prayer), fasting, zakat, the hajj, moral behavior, and respecting the rights of others are all part of it.
- Duniya alludes to our material obligations, including our work, education, family, business, and personal objectives.
Islam does not support chasing the world while ignoring one’s faith, nor does it condone leaving the world for worship. Balance is crucial.
The viewpoint of the Quran
According to the Qur’an, Allah:
“But look for the home of the Hereafter through what Allah has given you, and [yet] remember your part in the world.”
(Al-Qasas Surah, 28:77)
This verse skillfully instructs Muslims to prioritize their earthly necessities while aiming for the Akhirah (Hereafter). It demonstrates that as long as riches and ambition are attained by halal ways and do not divert us from our goals, Islam is not against them.
The Example of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
The epitome of equilibrium was the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. He maintained a close relationship with Allah while serving as a spiritual leader, a family man, a businessman, a statesman, and a warrior.
He stated:
“Give each person their rightful place because your Lord, your body, and your family all have rights over you.”
(Bukhari)
Moderation, not excess or carelessness, is what this hadith teaches.
Useful Advice for Balancing Deen and Duniya
1. Establish Intentions (Niyyah): Begin every task with the earnest goal of pleasing Allah; even your study, labor, or housework can be transformed into acts of worship.
2. Make Salah a priority: Don’t skimp on your five daily prayers. Allow them to serve as the focal point of your day.
3. Time management: Make a plan that allots time for family, work, worship, and relaxation. Don’t waste time on unimportant things.
4. Seek Halal Rizq: Take part in halal employment or business. A component of Deen is generating halal revenue.
5. Use Duniya for Deen: Make use of your resources, expertise, and connections to aid others and promote Islamic causes.
6. Be in Good Company: Be in the company of those who inspire you to maintain your focus and serve as a reminder of Allah.
7. Ask Allah to help you balance your life on a regular basis by making dua. One of the Prophet ﷺ’s du’as was:
“Our Lord, grant us good things in this world and good things in the hereafter, and keep us safe from the Fire’s punishment.”
(Al-Baqarah Surah, 2:201)
In conclusion
The key to being a successful Muslim is striking a balance between Deen and Duniya. Islam exhorts us to prepare for the eternal life in the Hereafter while leading a purposeful, fruitful life here on Earth. To succeed in both worlds, let us endeavor to follow the path of balance, adhering to the teachings of the Qur’an and the example set by our beloved Prophet ﷺ.
“Yes, the Gardens of Paradise will be a place to stay for those who believe and act morally.”
(Al-Kahf Surah, 18:107)
