“O Allah, bless the wealth of Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf.”
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Bismillah,
Have you heard of the saying “Money is the route of all evil?
I’m pretty sure you have.
What if I told you that money can be the route of good?
Today, we will be shedding light on the life of Abdur Rahman Ibn Awf (RA), a wealthy companion of the Prophet (PBUH), and his charitable endeavors that expanded his wealth.
Background
Abdur Rahman Ibn Awf (RA) was one of the early converts to Islam and among the ten promised Paradise.
He (RA) was one of the select few who made two hijra’s- Abyssinia & Medinah.
He (RA) was known for his immense wealth, which he acquired through trade and business acumen.
Despite his riches, he remained humble and dedicated to Islam, using his resources to support the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Muslim community.
Role in Islam
When he migrated to Medina, the Prophet (PBUH) paired him with Sa’d Ibn Rabi’ (RA) in brotherhood, who offered him half of his wealth.
Abdur Rahman (RA) graciously declined and asked only to be directed to the marketplace, where he quickly re-established his business.
His success in trade didn’t just serve his personal needs; he continuously supported the Prophet’s campaigns, providing significant financial aid during key battles like Tabuk and supporting the poor and needy in Medina.
Legacy
Abdur Rahman Ibn Awf’s (RA) legacy is one of generosity, humility, and unwavering support for the Muslim community.
His financial contributions were instrumental in the early expansion of Islam.
Despite his wealth, he lived simply and focused on using his resources to please Allah (SWT).
He was a model of how one can balance worldly success with spiritual devotion.
Application Today
Abdur Rahman Ibn Awf’s (RA) life teaches us the importance of generosity and using our resources for the greater good.
He (RA) was a master of his money, not a slave to it.
But we must firstly attain these resources.
As the saying goes, “Money is Power”.
Just like Abdur Rahman (RA) was determined to earn his wealth in the marketplace independently, whilst respectfully declining Sa’d Ibn Rabi’ (RA) offer, we should strive to make wealth independent of others.
In today’s context, his life inspires us to pursue excellence in our careers or businesses, not just for personal gain but to benefit our communities and support noble causes.
His example urges us to remain humble, regardless of our successes, and to always prioritize our faith and the welfare of others over material wealth.
Conclusion
Abdur Rahman Ibn Awf (RA) was the prime example of using power for good.
As Muslims, we should aim for wealth, power, and influence, with the intention of using it for Allah’s (SWT) cause.
Allah (SWT) will never disappoint us when he aim to please him with the right actions.
May Allah (SWT) make us as wealthy as Abdur Rahman Ibn Awf (RA) and emulate his charitable character,in the pursuit of helping the Ummah.
Ameen
Can you guess what was Abdur Rahman Ibn Awf’s (RA) networth in modern times?
Comment below!