Is jealousy of others' success a sin?

In the sublime and enlightening teachings of the Holy Quran, the concept of jealousy (hasad) is unequivocally condemned as one of the most detrimental negative attributes for the human soul and mind, as well as for social relationships. The Quran, with its profound insight into the human existence and the impact of intentions and actions on worldly and spiritual well-being, regards jealousy not merely as a moral vice but as a reprehensible act that can divert a person from divine pleasure. Jealousy inherently stems from a dissatisfaction with divine decree and the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon others. When an individual feels jealous of another's success or possessions, they are, in essence, protesting against the wisdom and justice of Allah, who distributes sustenance, blessings, and status among people according to His divine plan. This perspective prevents individuals from being grateful for their own blessings, instead fixating their minds on what they lack or what others possess, leading to nothing but anxiety, malice, and bitterness. The Holy Quran warns believers to steer clear of such negative traits and instead focus on their own growth and perfection, and that of society. In Surah An-Nisa, verse 54, Allah states: “Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty?” This rhetorical question strongly conveys the disapproval of jealousy, indicating that envy stems from a lack of complete faith in divine will and an underlying sense of self-superiority. Jealousy is often accompanied by the wish for another's blessings to vanish, even if the envious person does not gain those blessings themselves. This malicious wish not only harms the other person but, more importantly, contaminates the soul and heart of the envious individual, depriving them of inner peace and tranquility. One of the most important ways to combat jealousy is to focus on one's own countless blessings and to be grateful for them. The Quran constantly emphasizes gratitude, considering it a means to increase divine blessings. In Surah Ibrahim, verse 7, it is stated: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor].” Gratitude shifts one's perspective from what is lacking to what is present, cleansing the heart of malice and jealousy. Furthermore, praying for the success of others and wishing them well is an effective way to eradicate the seeds of jealousy from the heart. When a person genuinely wishes well for another, they free themselves from negative thoughts and, in essence, attract goodness towards themselves. In Surah Al-Falaq, verse 5, Allah commands the Prophet (PBUH) to seek refuge in Him from the evil of an envier when he envies: “And from the evil of an envier when he envies.” This verse clearly indicates that jealousy is not only a spiritual illness but also carries an inherent evil and harm from which one must seek refuge in Allah. This evil can encompass both the practical harm an envious person might inflict upon another and the inner evil that corrupts the envious soul. Therefore, jealousy of others' success is not only considered a sin but also a spiritual ailment that, if left untreated, can lead to resentment, enmity, and even hostile actions. The envious person lives in perpetual torment, as the success of anyone else feels like a sting that afflicts their soul. Instead of jealousy, the Quran emphasizes healthy competition and striving for virtues and good deeds. Competing in good deeds and excelling in righteousness (Istibaq al-Khayrat) is commendable and encouraged in several verses. This type of competition is not only constructive but also leads to individual and societal progress. The fundamental difference between jealousy (hasad) and ghayra (often called positive envy or emulation) lies precisely here: hasad is the wish for another's blessings to disappear, while ghayra is the desire to possess a similar blessing without wishing for its removal from the original owner. Ghayra is not condemned in Islam and can be a strong motivator for greater effort. Thus, Quranic teachings not only consider jealousy a sin and reprehensible but also clearly outline ways to combat it and transform it into positive attributes such as gratitude, contentment, benevolence, and constructive competition, so that humanity may achieve true felicity and remain safe from the internal and external harms of jealousy. These teachings provide a roadmap for cultivating a pure heart, a serene soul, and a beneficial and effective presence in society. Ultimately, jealousy not only hinders personal and spiritual growth but also destroys human relationships. An envious person cannot be a good friend or companion, as they are constantly preoccupied with others' successes and comparing themselves to them. This unhealthy comparison alienates them from the joys of life and a sense of contentment. The Holy Quran encourages individuals to reflect on themselves, focus on self-improvement, and refrain from gazing at the achievements and possessions of others. Every person has their unique sustenance and destiny, and comparing oneself to others only leads to feelings of deprivation and dissatisfaction. Islam teaches us to focus on what we have instead of longing for what we lack, and to strive towards growth and perfection with effort and reliance on Allah. This outlook not only eradicates jealousy but also opens doors of peace and blessings into one's life.