What is Rizq? Understanding Sustenance in Islam

Sakina Publishing
Jun 10
3 min read

In Islam, rizq, translated as sustenance or provision, is more than just material wealth. It refers to every form of blessing that Allah provides, including food, drink, health, companionship, faith, knowledge, righteous deeds, and spiritual contentment. The Islamic concept of sustenance is rooted in the Qur’an and the Hadith, referring to the blessings that Allah bestows, both the visible and the hidden, the earned and the unearned.

Why is Rizq Important?

Sustenance from Allah is essential for human survival and well-being. Allah, in His wisdom, created mankind and then arranged the means of their provision by making the earth subservient so that we may benefit from its resources. He sends rain, grows crops, and facilitates the means of earning a living for everyone. As Allah says in the Qur’an:

“It is He who has made the earth subservient to you, so walk in its paths and eat of His provision. And to Him will be the Resurrection.” (Qur’an 67:15)

This verse reminds us that while provision is decreed, effort is still required. Striving to earn a halal income is encouraged and rewarded.

More Than Money

Rizq is not limited to money or possessions. It includes:

Good health
Righteous children
Loving companionship
Time to worship
Beneficial knowledge
Faith
Mental and spiritual peace
Ease in daily affairs

Even a sincere friend or a righteous spouse is considered abundant provision in Islam. The Qur’an and Sunnah encourage us to recognise these blessings and respond with gratitude and humility.

Types of Rizq

Islam recognises two categories of rizq:

Provision that seeks the servant- This includes forms of rizq that reach a person without effort, like inheritance. A person receives this sustenance without toil or intention; it is simply allotted to them by Allah’s decree.
Provision the servant seeks - This refers to sustenance acquired through work, trade, or lawful earnings. Although effort is required, its outcome is still under Allah’s control.

Both forms of rizq are distributed by Allah, showing us that our role is to act, but our sustenance is never earned by effort alone.

The Role of Taqwā (God-Consciousness)

One of the key spiritual strategies for increasing rizq is developing taqwā, or a conscious awareness of Allah. The Qur’an promises:

“And whoever fears Allah, He will create a way out for them and provide for them in unexpected ways.” (Qur’an 65:2-3)

God-consciousness, sincerity, avoiding forbidden income, and trusting in God's plan all contribute to attracting provision that is blessed and long-lasting.

Barakah: The Secret to Lasting Provision

It is possible to have a large income yet feel no benefit from it. This is why the concept of barakah in provision is so important. Barakah refers to having God's blessing in all aspects of life, including time, wealth, relationships, and everything.

True Islamic sustenance is not about how much you have, but how much good it brings. A little with barakah is better than a lot without it.

Tired of Chasing Provision?

Many people spend their entire lives chasing money and material success, only to feel overworked, stressed and spiritually empty. But what if there’s a better way, without the toil of endless chasing?

Book titled "The Keys to Abundant Provisions" on a wooden table.

Introducing: The Keys to Abundant Provision

This new book explores the spiritual keys to attracting rizq and making it last, without the stress. It draws from the Qur’an, Prophetic wisdom, and the insights of the pious to teach you how to: