“While Mmodern materialism erodes human bonds, Prophet Muhammad (SAW’s teachings offer a vital framework for prioritizing people over possessions.”
Dr. Firdous A Reshi
In an age increasingly defined by material pursuits and outward displays of success, the essence of human relationships is quietly being overshadowed by possessions, status, and wealth. The Holy Qur’an repeatedly reminds us that wealth and children are but adornments of this worldly life, while the enduring good deeds are far better in the sight of Almighty Allah (Surah Al-Kahf 18:46). This verse clearly distinguishes between temporary material attractions and lasting spiritual values, urging believers to prioritize character, compassion, and righteousness over material gain. In another place,Almighty Allah declares that the most honoured among you in His sight is the most righteous (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:13), thus negating all forms of superiority based on wealth or possessions and placing Taqwa (piety) as the true criterion of worth. Similarly, the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) provide a practical framework for valuing people over possessions. He said, “Almighty Allah does not look at your appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds” (Sahih Muslim), a powerful reminder that the internal state of a person holds far greater significance than any external display of affluence. The Prophet (SAW) also lived a life of simplicity despite having access to wealth, choosing humility and generosity over luxury, and encouraging his companions to build relationships based on sincerity, trust, and mutual respect rather than material benefit.
“Prioritizing people over material goods is both a social and spiritual duty that fosters authentic relationships and lasting inner peace. By treating individuals as inherently valuable rather than tools for gain, we restore balance to a world often distracted by consumerism.”
Unfortunately, modern societies often measures relationships through the lens of economic advantage friendships are influenced by status, marriages are negotiated with financial expectations, and even familial ties sometimes weaken under the pressure of material comparisons. This shift not only erodes the purity of human connections but also leads to dissatisfaction, jealousy, and spiritual emptiness. When people are valued for what they own rather than who they are, relationships become transactional, losing their depth and meaning. Islam, however, calls for a return to authenticity, where love, empathy, and moral integrity form the foundation of all interactions. It teaches that true richness lies not in abundance of wealth but in contentment of the heart, as the Prophet (SAW) said, “Richness is not having many possessions, but true richness is the richness of the soul” (Sahih al-Bukhari). Therefore, valuing people over possessions is not only a social necessity but also a spiritual obligation that aligns with divine guidance. It fosters stronger communities, nurtures genuine bonds, and brings inner peace that no material asset can provide. In a world dazzled by temporary glitter, returning to this timeless principle can restore balance, reminding us that people are not means to an end, but ends in themselves, deserving of respect, kindness, and unconditional regard.
