‘If the world were as worthy to Allah as the wing of a mosquito, an unbeliever would not even be given a sip of water.” (Tirmidhi).

What does this mean?

The scholars mention that the world in and of itself has no value to Allah, and so he allows anyone to benefit from it.

We see atheists, oppressors and others making millions of pounds and living in nice houses, though they may be limited in good. The hadith highlights an important point – when something has value (like an expensive car), you will be conscious of who you share it with.

However, if something is insignificant to you e.g., a penny coin, you will give it to anyone. The Prophet (saws) is saying that this world to Allah has minimal value. It’s value (in comparison to the hereafter) is like the wing of a mosquito! Therefore, as believers, we need to remember not to give this world too much of ourselves. Yes, we will work, live and play here, but it’s not the end goal. We should aim to invest in deeds for the hereafter.

The Prophet (saws) embodied this in a du’a when he said:

‘O Allah, do not make the dunya our greatest concern’.