Is it wrong to pray for worldly desires?

In the rich and comprehensive teachings of the Holy Quran, there is no prohibition whatsoever against praying for worldly desires and aspirations. In fact, in many instances, it is highly encouraged and promoted. Islam, contrary to some misconceptions, does not condemn worldly life in its entirety; rather, it views it as a field for cultivating virtues and preparing for the Hereafter. Allah Almighty introduces Himself as 'Al-Wahhab' (The Bestower) and 'Al-Razzaq' (The Provider), and He encourages His servants to ask Him for all their needs, both material and spiritual. This fundamental principle can be inferred from various verses of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). One of the most beautiful manifestations of this permissibility is found in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 201, where Allah teaches believers a comprehensive supplication: "Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire." (Rabbana atina fid dunya hasanah wa fil akhirati hasanah wa qina adhaban nar). This verse clearly indicates that seeking 'hasanah' (goodness) in this world is not only permissible but is part of the desirable and acceptable prayers to Allah. This goodness can encompass health, lawful sustenance, a righteous family, tranquility, success in business, beneficial knowledge, and anything that improves one's worldly life. Furthermore, in verse 200 of the same Surah, Allah criticizes a group whose prayers are solely focused on this world, neglecting the Hereafter: "And among them are those who say, 'Our Lord, give us in this world,' and for them in the Hereafter will be no share." This verse shows that the problem is not in seeking worldly things per se, but in 'confining' one's requests to this world and 'completely neglecting' the Hereafter. In other words, Islam calls for balance. This world is the cultivation ground for the Hereafter; it is a means to achieve spiritual perfections and higher goals. Lawful wealth can be a means for charity, helping the needy, and building a better society. Health and well-being can be an opportunity for more worship, serving humanity, and acquiring knowledge. Therefore, worldly desires are legitimate and praiseworthy when they are accompanied by good intentions and used as a tool for divine pleasure and eternal salvation. In Surah Al-A'raf, verse 32, the Holy Quran explicitly criticizes those who forbid the pure and lawful adornments of Allah: "Say, 'Who has forbidden the adornment of Allah which He has produced for His servants and the good things of provision?'" This verse confirms that enjoying worldly blessings, as long as it is through lawful means and accompanied by moderation and gratitude, is not only permissible but also a sign of divine grace. Prophets of Allah, who are perfect role models of servitude, also prayed for worldly matters. Prophet Sulaiman (peace be upon him) asked Allah for an unparalleled kingdom ("My Lord, forgive me and grant me a kingdom such as will not belong to anyone after me," Surah Sad, verse 35). Prophet Zakariya (peace be upon him), in his old age, asked Allah for a righteous child ("My Lord, grant me from Yourself a good offspring," Surah Al-Imran, verse 38). Prophet Ayub (peace be upon him) prayed for the healing of his illness ("Indeed, adversity has touched me, and You are the most merciful of the merciful," Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 83). These examples clearly demonstrate that seeking good and relief from needs in this world is not reprehensible; rather, it was the practice of prophets and saints. Crucially, the intention and purpose behind one's worldly prayer are paramount. If praying for more sustenance is for the purpose of helping others, promoting justice, or achieving financial independence for more sincere worship, it is not only permissible but virtuous. On the other hand, if seeking worldly possessions is merely for excessive luxury, arrogance, or negligence of Allah's remembrance, this is where the problem arises. In other words, the problem is not with the world itself, but with an excessive and improper attachment to it. Ultimately, praying for worldly desires is not only permissible but also a sign of reliance on Allah and an acknowledgment of His power and generosity. Allah loves for His servants to ask Him and extend their hands in need. However, this prayer must be accompanied by legitimate effort and rational planning, and it should never lead to forgetting the primary purpose of creation, which is servitude to Allah and eternal salvation. The balance between this world and the Hereafter is always the key to success in life from an Islamic perspective.