Feeling greedy is considered a negative trait, and Islam encourages believers to cultivate contentment and gratitude. Here are some Islamic teachings and practices to help overcome feelings of greed:
Read below duas to overcome with greed.
#1
Allāhumma innī aʿūdhu bika min-l-hammi wa-l-ḥazan, wa aʿūdhu bika min-l-ʿajzi wa-l-kasal, wa aʿūdhu bika min-l-jubni wa-l-bukhl, wa aʿūdhu bika min ghalabati-d-dayni wa qahri-r-rijāl.
O Allah, I seek Your protection from anxiety and grief. I seek Your protection from inability and laziness. I seek Your protection from cowardice and miserliness, and I seek Your protection from being overcome by debt and being overpowered by men.
Abu Sa’id al-Khudri (raḍiy Allāhu ʿanhu) narrated that one day, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ entered the mosque and noticed a man from the Ansar named Abu Umamah (raḍiy Allāhu ʿanhu). He ﷺ inquired, “What is the matter? Why are you sitting in the mosque when it is not prayer time?” Abu Umamah replied, “O Messenger of Allah, I am burdened with never-ending worries and debts.” The Messenger of Allah ﷺ then asked, “Shall I not teach you words that, when you say them, Allah will alleviate your worries and settle your debts?” Abu Umamah responded, “Certainly, O Messenger of Allah.” He ﷺ said, “Recite the following in the morning and evening [the above].” Abu Umamah (raḍiy Allāhu ʿanhu) remarked, “I followed this advice, and Allah indeed relieved my worries and settled my debts.” (Abu Dawood 1555)
#2
Allāhumma qanniʿnī bimā razaqtanī, wa bārik lī fīhī, wa-khluf ʿalā kulli ghā’ibati-l-lī bi-khayr.
O Allah, make me content with what You have granted me, bless me in it and be a protector for me in that which is absent from me (i.e. family and wealth).
Ibn ʿAbbās (radiy Allāhū ‘anhumā) narrates that the Prophet ﷺ would dua with [the above]. (Hākim 1/455)
- Express Gratitude (Shukr): Islam emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude for the blessings one has. Take time to reflect on the numerous favors and blessings that Allah has bestowed upon you. Engaging in regular expressions of gratitude can help diminish feelings of greed.
- Charity (Sadaqah): Actively engage in charitable activities by giving to those in need. Islam encourages believers to share their wealth with others and to be generous. By practicing charity, you can combat feelings of greed and develop a more giving and compassionate mindset.
- Remembering the Hereafter: Reflect on the transient nature of worldly possessions. Islam teaches that the true wealth lies in the deeds and character that one carries into the afterlife. Remind yourself of the impermanence of material wealth to reduce attachment and greed.
- Recitation of Quranic Verses: Read and reflect upon Quranic verses that discuss the consequences of greed and the virtues of contentment. Understanding the teachings of the Quran can provide spiritual guidance and help in overcoming negative traits.
- Seeking Forgiveness (Istighfar): If you feel that your greed has led to unjust or unethical behavior, seek forgiveness from Allah through sincere repentance. Ask for Allah’s guidance in purifying your heart and intentions.
- Supplication (Du’a): Turn to Allah in prayer and supplication. Ask Allah for strength and guidance in overcoming feelings of greed. Seek His help in developing contentment and being satisfied with what He has decreed for you.
- Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your priorities and values. Evaluate whether your desires are in line with Islamic principles and whether they contribute positively to your spiritual and moral well-being.
- Avoiding Excessive Consumption: Islam encourages moderation in all aspects of life, including consumption. Avoid excessive spending and accumulation of material possessions. Instead, focus on fulfilling your needs and the needs of your family while being mindful of those less fortunate.