In life, we often find ourselves drawn to things that seem important- wealth, recognition, influence- but the reality is that everything we own or strive for in this world is fleeting. The Qur’an reminds us of this profound truth:
“What you have will end, but what Allah has is everlasting.” (An-Nahl: 96)
In Arabic, the word يَنفَدُ” (yanfadh) is used to describe the temporary nature of what we possess. This verb comes from a root that conveys the idea of something running out, being depleted, or fading away. Importantly, يَنفَدُ is a fi’l (verb), and in Arabic grammar, verbs are inherently linked to time- they belong to the past, present, or future. This grammatical feature subtly reflects the reality of our worldly possessions: they exist within the constraints of time, and by nature, they will come to an end.
However, when describing what belongs to Allah, the Qur’an uses باق (baqin) which is a noun (ism). In Arabic, nouns are not tied to a specific time frame in the same way verbs are. They indicate a fixed state, a permanence, a concept unrestricted by temporal limitations. This choice of wording carries profound significance: just as a noun remains independent of time, so too do the provisions of Allah- His rewards, His sustenance, and His blessings in the afterlife- remain unchanging, unlimited, and eternal.
This distinction between verb and noun is not arbitrary; it is an intricate and deliberate aspect of Qur’anic eloquence. If Allah had used a verb to describe what is with Him, it could have implied a finite duration. But by using a noun, Allah conveys that His provisions exist beyond time itself. They do not fade, diminish, or expire- they are absolute.
The verse does not just say that what we have will “end”- it contrasts it directly with what Allah has. This juxtaposition serves as both a reminder and a lesson: when we cling too tightly to what is destined to perish, we risk neglecting what is truly permanent. Allah does not simply state that our wealth and possessions are temporary- He shifts our attention to the alternative, guiding us toward that which will last forever.
This precise and subtle use of language is what makes the Qur’an incomparable. It is not just the meaning of the verse that teaches us- it is also the structure, the grammar, and the choice of words, all of which work together to instill a deep, timeless truth in the heart of the reader.
Cognitive Dissonance and the Pursuit of the Temporary
People often struggle with cognitive dissonance- the tension that arises when one’s actions contradict their beliefs. We know that material wealth is fleeting, yet we act as if it will last forever. This dissonance leads to anxiety, stress, and an unending cycle of dissatisfaction. Research in psychology shows that humans tend to overvalue immediate rewards (a concept known as temporal discounting) while undervaluing long term benefits. This might explain why people chase wealth, fame, and power, even at the cost of their peace of mind and well being.
However, the Qur’an reminds us to realign our focus. If we attach ourselves too strongly to temporary things, we set ourselves up for disappointment. The moment we lose them- whether it’s money, status, or relationships- we experience existential distress, questioning our purpose and identity.
To overcome this attachment to the temporary, we can adopt future (hereafter) oriented mindset. Here are a few strategies:
1. Reframe Loss as a Transition
Instead of seeing the loss of wealth or status as an end, view it as a shift towards something greater. The Qur’an teaches us that everything we give up for Allah is replaced by something better, either in this life or the next.
2. Gratitude as a Grounding Tool
Practicing daily gratitude can help counteract our natural tendency to focus on what we lack. Studies in positive psychology show that people who regularly express gratitude experience lower levels of stress and higher life satisfaction.
3. Invest in the Eternal
Redirecting our energy towards acts that have eternal value- such as charity, kindness, and sincere worship- creates lasting fulfillment. Unlike material wealth, which perishes, these actions build an everlasting reward with Allah.
4. Visualising the Bigger Picture
When faced with setbacks, ask yourself: “Will this matter in the next life?” Training the mind to see beyond immediate hardships reduces stress and enhances resilience. This aligns with the Islamic principle of tawakkul (trust in Allah), which fosters inner peace.
Allah’s words remind us that everything we own is temporary, yet our attachment to them often causes us unnecessary suffering. By incorporating the above principles- such as cognitive reframing, gratitude, and future (hereafter) oriented thinking- we can train ourselves to detach from what is fleeting and focus on what truly lasts. The real wealth is not in our possessions, but in the eternal rewards Allah has prepared for us. The sooner we embrace this mindset, the freer and more content we will become.
