Jealousy is rarely discussed openly, yet it is one of the most destructive forces shaping personal relationships and social life today. In an era dominated by social media, public success, and constant comparison, jealousy has moved from a private struggle of the heart to a widespread social problem — fuelling resentment, division, and moral decline.

In Islam, jealousy (hasad) is defined as resenting the blessings Allah has given to others and wishing for their removal. The Koran challenges this inner rebellion directly: “Do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty?” (Koran, 4:54)

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) issued a stark warning: “Beware of jealousy, for jealousy consumes good deeds just as fire consumes wood.” (Abu Dawud)

Christian scripture echoes this concern, observing: “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.” (James, 3:16)

Jealousy is not merely an emotional weakness; it is a moral and spiritual failure rooted in dissatisfaction with God’s wisdom. In actual fact; the jealous one is displaying defiance by being displeased with God's decisions — astaghfirullah (“I seek forgiveness from Allah.”)

Jealousy in modern society has taken on a new and even more defiant tone. Today, jealousy is amplified by visibility. Social media platforms expose lifestyles, achievements, wealth, beauty, and influence in ways previous generations never encountered.

Constant comparison breeds insecurity, while envy quietly erodes contentment. This dynamic contributes to workplace hostility, family breakdowns, online bullying, and even political polarisation. Unfortunately, hasad (jealousy) begins to fester and grow like nasty mould, dispersing its spores and affecting everything around it.

Jealousy thrives where gratitude is weak and identity is tied to status. Instead of celebrating collective success, society increasingly rewards competition and resentment.

Islam encourages deep self-accountability (muhasabah). Our noble Prophet Muhammad taught: “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

Meaning we should be happy and supportive of one another’s achievements and successes and let it be known by acknowledging so.

True joy grows when we rejoice in one another’s achievements. Let us say “Ma sha’ Allah” and “Barakallahu fik” with sincerity, turning envy into gratitude and light. Every blessing is a gift from Allah, and celebrating it together strengthens our hearts and our community.

Since humans are considered weak and, for lack of a better word, jealousy is a “natural” emotion. The Koran reminds us: “Humankind was created weak” (4:28), and warns of the harm of envy: “…and from the evil of the envier when he envies”. (113:5).

Jealousy leads to wickedness, hatred and massively hinders progress; resulting in the destruction of families and communities.

However, we must remain ever diligent, pausing to recognise and inwardly examine when jealousy begins to creep into our hearts and stir personal struggle. With steadfast resolve, we must resist its pull, refusing to let jealousy cast shadows that dim our inner light.

Christian teaching reinforces this inward examination: “Each one should test his own actions.” (Galatians, 6:4)

Where this moral discipline is absent, jealousy becomes normalised — and destructive.

The earliest recorded act of human violence is rooted in jealousy. In the story of Cain and Abel – known in Islam as Qabil and Habil – both brothers offered sacrifices to God. Abel’s offering was accepted, while Cain’s was not. Instead of self-reflection, Cain allowed jealousy to fester into rage.

Cain’s jealousy led to the first murder, demonstrating how unchecked envy can escalate from inner resentment to irreversible harm.

This story stands as a timeless lesson: jealousy, when indulged, can destroy not only relationships but entire moral foundations.

Both Islam and Christianity offer practical remedies in healing the jealous heart. Indeed gratitude is central: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you.” (Koran 14:7)

Muslim scholars advise praying for those one envies – an act that transforms resentment into humility. Remembering that provision and success are divinely apportioned restores perspective: “Allah enlarges provision for whom He wills and restricts it.” (Koran, 13:26)

In a world shaped by comparison, jealousy has become a quiet but dangerous epidemic. Faith traditions remind us that peace is not found in rivalry, but in trust – trust that God’s wisdom is just, His timing precise, and His blessings are sufficient for all.

We must remember:

• Gratitude extinguishes jealousy

• Being happy towards others’ blessings strengthens community bonds

• A pure heart shines brighter when freed from envy.

May we never be the servant or prisoner of our own envy and jealousy.

We pray: “O Allah, purify our hearts from jealousy, fill it with gratitude and contentment, and let us see Your blessings upon ourselves and others through the eyes of love and mercy. Ameen.”

Bermuda, have a blessed week and continue to stand up for justice, give in charity and always have a grateful heart by acknowledging and wholeheartedly expressing our support for the blessings Allah has bestowed upon others.

In doing so, we turn envy into gratitude and strengthen the bonds of love and mercy among us. Every achievement, every gift, is a sign of His wisdom, and by celebrating them together we honour both the giver and the gift’s recipient.

True community shines when we rejoice in one another’s light, allowing no shadow of jealousy to dim the radiance of shared joy.

As-salaamu alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam