The Quranic concept of sustenance, known as Rizq (رزق), is central to Islamic belief and encompasses a profound understanding of divine provision, effort, and trust.
The Quran makes several key points about sustenance:
- Allah is the Sole Provider (Ar-Raziq / Ar-Razzaq)
The most fundamental principle is that Allah (God) is the ultimate source and guarantor of all sustenance. This provision is comprehensive, covering every living creature, not just humans.
- Universal Guarantee:
“And there is no creature on earth but that upon Allah is its provision.” (Quran 11:6)
- The Best of Providers:
“Indeed, it is Allah who is the [continual] Provider, the possessor of strength, the firm.” (Quran 51:58)
- Sustenance is Comprehensive (Material and Spiritual)
Rizq is not limited to mere material wealth (food, money, property) but is an all-encompassing concept that includes:
- Physical: Food, drink, health, shelter, and wealth.
- Spiritual/Non-Material: Knowledge, wisdom, faith (Iman), peace of mind, righteous spouses and children, and the opportunity to do good deeds. The highest form of Rizq is sometimes considered to be Paradise (Jannah) itself.
- The Balance of Effort and Reliance (Tawakkul)
The Quran teaches that a Muslim must strike a perfect balance between making an effort and having full reliance on God.
- The Necessity of Effort (Sa’y): Humans are commanded to strive and work. Your provision is guaranteed, but you must move to receive it.
“And that there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives.” (Quran 53:39)
- The Command for Reliance (Tawakkul): After making an effort, one must place complete trust in God to bring about the result.
“And whoever fears Allah—He will make for him a way out (2) And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah—then He is sufficient for him.” (Quran 65:2-3)
- Sustenance is Measured and Pre-Determined
God distributes sustenance in a predetermined measure, and its abundance or scarcity is based on His wisdom.
- Distribution is by Measure:
“And if Allah were to expand the provision for His servants, they would certainly transgress on the earth. But He sends down [provision] in due measure as He wills. Indeed, He is, concerning His servants, Acquainted and Seeing.” (Quran 42:27)
- Obedience and Piety Increase Rizq
The Quran links piety (Taqwa, or consciousness of God) and worship to an increase and blessing in one’s sustenance.
- Prayer is Linked to Provision:
“And enjoin prayer upon your people and be steadfast therein. We ask you not for provision; We provide for you. And the [best] outcome is for [those of] righteousness.” (Quran 20:132)In essence, the Quran teaches that concern over provision should not lead to anxiety or unlawful means, as one’s Rizq is guaranteed and pre-written. The believer’s duty is to strive lawfully, be grateful, maintain piety, and rely on God for the outcome.
Would you like to know more about specific ways to increase sustenance, as mentioned in Islamic tradition?