How can I eradicate jealousy from its roots?

Jealousy, this hidden spiritual malady, is one of the most destructive afflictions that can rob an individual and society of peace and well-being. The Holy Quran, a book of guidance and light, explicitly addresses the issue of jealousy (hasad) and the ways to combat it. Eradicating jealousy from the heart requires a deep understanding of Quranic teachings and continuous effort in self-purification (tazkiyah al-nafs). The first step in treating jealousy is to recognize its nature and its harms from a Quranic perspective. Jealousy is essentially a form of protest against divine decree and a lack of contentment with one's own lot; it is as if the envious person considers the distribution of God's blessings and favors to be unfair, wishing for the blessing to be removed from others and transferred to themselves, or at least for it to disappear. This spiritual state not only harms the envied person not at all, but rather burns the soul of the envious person in a scorching fire, depriving them of tranquility and gratitude. Almighty Allah, in Surah Al-Falaq, instructs us to seek refuge from the evil of an envier when he envies, which itself highlights the danger and malevolence of this vile trait. To fundamentally eradicate jealousy, we must return to several important Quranic principles. The first, and perhaps most crucial, principle is strengthening one's faith in “Divine Decree (Qadar)” and “God's Wisdom.” Understanding that Allah, the Most High, is the absolute Provider and bestows every blessing upon whomever He wills, based on His infinite wisdom, is the foundation for treating jealousy. Verse 32 of Surah An-Nisa explicitly states: “And do not wish for that by which Allah has preferred some of you over others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of His bounty. Indeed, Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing.” This verse clearly indicates that jealousy, which is wishing for what another possesses, is not only blameworthy but that the true solution is to ask for God’s grace and bounty. This perspective prevents an individual from comparing themselves to others and guides them towards self-improvement and reliance on God. The second crucial principle is “Gratitude (Shukr).” The Holy Quran repeatedly invites humans to be grateful for Allah’s blessings. When a person, instead of looking at what others possess, focuses on their own countless blessings and expresses gratitude, their heart is cleansed of the rust of jealousy. Gratitude is a gateway to increasing blessings and inner peace. In Surah Ibrahim, verse 7, we read: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.” Gratitude not only increases blessings but also frees the soul from narrow-mindedness and discontent. The envious person is often ungrateful, constantly thinking about what they lack and disregarding what they possess. Thirdly, “Self-purification (Tazkiyah al-Nafs) and Recitation of the Quran” are essential. The Quran generally emphasizes purifying the heart from spiritual diseases. Jealousy is one such disease. Reciting and contemplating the verses of the Quran, especially those that deal with monotheism, divine decree, the importance of gratitude, and love among believers, can gradually cleanse the heart of the impurities of jealousy. Furthermore, prayer (du’a) and remembrance of Allah (dhikr), particularly Quranic supplications that ask for purity of heart and protection from evil, are highly effective. In Surah Al-A’raf, verse 43, it is mentioned that resentment and ill-will are removed from the hearts of the dwellers of Paradise: “And We will remove whatever is in their breasts of resentment, [while] rivers flow beneath them.” Although this verse describes Paradise, striving for such a state in this world—that is, having a pure heart free from rancor and envy—is a Quranic ideal that can be approached through effort and spiritual struggle. Fourthly, “Focus on Self-Improvement and Striving in the Way of Allah” is vital. Instead of wasting energy on regret and comparison, an individual should dedicate it to improving their own condition in this world and the Hereafter. The Holy Quran constantly emphasizes righteous deeds and striving in the way of Allah. When a person contemplates the higher purpose of life, which is to gain Allah's pleasure and eternal bliss, the worldly successes of others do not seem so significant that they would cause envy. Jealousy often stems from idleness and a lack of purpose; when a person has a clear goal in life and strives to achieve it, they have less time and inclination to look at others’ lives and feel regret. This approach transforms the negative energy of jealousy into positive energy for growth and progress. Fifth, “Cultivating Love for Others and Praying for Their Well-being” is fundamental. Jealousy stands in direct opposition to love and goodwill. The Quran considers believers as brothers and sisters and commands them to be kind to one another. When you sincerely pray for the person you envy, asking Allah to increase their blessings and bestow His favor upon them, this act contradicts jealousy and gradually dries up its roots. This practice compels the soul towards goodwill and frees it from the disease of narrow-mindedness. Understanding the truth that Allah's sustenance and grace are boundless and that He bestows them upon whomever He wills and deems appropriate, causes one to rejoice in what others possess and see it as a sign of Allah’s vast mercy. This insight guides the heart from the darkness of jealousy towards the light of love and divine contentment. Ultimately, combating jealousy is a greater jihad (struggle) that requires self-awareness, constant vigilance, and frequent return to the authentic teachings of the Quran. By strengthening faith in Allah, practicing gratitude, purifying the heart from moral vices, and focusing on one’s own path of growth and perfection, the roots of this destructive affliction can be uprooted from the heart, leading to true peace. This path is a journey towards a life full of contentment, peace, and love, which is the ultimate goal of Quranic teachings.