The Trial of Wealth - Surah Az-Zukhruf 43:33-35

“And if it were not for the fact that all mankind would have become one (disbelieving) community, We would have provided for those who disbelieved in the Most Merciful silver roofs for their houses and (silver) staircases with which to ascend, and doors (of silver) for their houses and thrones (of silver) on which to recline, and adornments of gold. Yet all of that is nothing but the enjoyment of this world, while the Hereafter with your Lord is only for those who are God-conscious.”




Explanation:

In these verses, Allah shows us the true nature of this world. It, with all its riches, is nothing in the sight of Allah. The prophet (peace be upon him) said that this world is worth less that the rotten carcass of a dead donkey, he even said that it is worth less than the wing of a mosquito. So why do we keep chasing after it?

This verse also refutes the misconception that wealth is an indicator of Allah’s pleasure with someone. Wealth does not indicate Allah’s pleasure or displeasure; it is a test just like poverty. Many of the richest people in the world (who can afford the things mentioned in this verse) are not Muslim. This is a test for them, as it is for us.

Will we follow the footsteps of the disbelievers, blinded by this world, thinking it leads to success, or will we realize true success lies in the obedience of Allah and attainment of Paradise?

Another interesting point in this verse is Allah’s usage of His beautiful name “Ar-Rahman” (The Most Merciful). Scholars of Aqeedah and Tafseer say that this name indicates His Mercy to everything including disbelievers, and this is evident in this verse. Despite their disbelief and evil deeds, Allah might still bless them with the best of this world; this is mercy on a level that no human can imagine doing.

Source: Verse of the Day Collection by Abu Muawiyah Ismail Kamdar