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Muhammad Hammad
May 18, 2025
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Quranic View on Jealousy and Social Psychology

Quranic View on Jealousy and Social Psychology

Jealousy is a universal emotion that can deeply affect relationships, mental health, and spiritual well-being. The Quran addresses jealousy as a destructive force that harms both the individual and society. When viewed through the lens of social psychology, jealousy aligns with numerous human behavioral patterns that influence group dynamics, self-esteem, and interpersonal conflict. This article explores the Quranic perspective on jealousy and how it connects with key ideas from social psychology.

Jealousy in the Quran

The Origin of Jealousy: The Story of Iblis

One of the earliest mentions of jealousy in the Quran is in the story of Iblis (Satan), who refused to bow to Adam out of arrogance and envy. This act of jealousy led to his eternal downfall.

The Tale of Cain and Abel

Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:27-31) narrates the story of the two sons of Adam, where jealousy drives one brother to murder the other. This shows how envy can escalate into serious sin.

Warnings Against Envy

Surah Al-Falaq (113:5) teaches believers to seek refuge in Allah from the harm of the envious. Jealousy is considered a spiritual disease that requires immediate attention and treatment.

Psychological Roots of Jealousy

Social Comparison Theory

Social psychology explains jealousy through Festinger’s Social Comparison Theory, where individuals evaluate themselves by comparing themselves to others. These comparisons often lead to feelings of inadequacy and envy.

Self-Esteem and Insecurity

People with low self-esteem are more prone to jealousy. The Quran emphasizes self-awareness and contentment to combat these negative feelings.

Fear of Loss and Rejection

Jealousy often stems from the fear of losing something valuable—such as love, status, or material possessions—which mirrors Quranic warnings about attachment to worldly gains.

Jealousy in Relationships and Society

Marital Jealousy

In the context of marriage, jealousy can arise from suspicion or possessiveness. The Quran encourages trust, modesty, and clear communication between spouses to prevent this.

Sibling Rivalry and Family Conflict

Jealousy among siblings is exemplified in the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph), whose brothers’ envy led them to plot against him. The Quran condemns such behavior and highlights the value of forgiveness.

Workplace and Community Jealousy

Professional jealousy often stems from competition and pride. Islam advises believers to be humble and celebrate others’ success rather than envy it.

Spiritual Consequences of Jealousy

It Corrupts the Heart

Jealousy is seen as a disease of the heart (maradh al-qalb) in Islamic teachings. It clouds judgment and weakens faith, distancing a person from spiritual growth.

Obstacle to Gratitude

An envious person is seldom thankful. The Quran links gratitude with increased blessings, while envy blocks this pathway.

Leads to Sinful Behavior

Jealousy can lead to slander, deceit, or even violence. The Quran repeatedly warns against backbiting and suspicion—common outcomes of jealousy.

Quranic Strategies to Overcome Jealousy

  • Practice Gratitude: Regularly thanking Allah for what you have helps shift focus from what others possess.

  • Make Du’a for Others: Praying for the success of those you envy helps purify the heart and build empathy.

  • Seek Refuge in Allah: Reciting Surah Al-Falaq and other protective supplications can shield the heart from jealousy.

  • Focus on Self-Improvement: Islam encourages personal growth rather than competing with others.

Social Psychology Solutions to Envy

  • Cognitive Reframing: Changing the way one interprets others’ success can reduce feelings of jealousy.

  • Emotional Regulation Techniques: Practices like mindfulness and journaling help manage envy.

  • Developing Self-Compassion: Being kind to oneself lowers the tendency to compare and compete.

  • Building a Support Network: Positive social environments reduce insecurities that fuel jealousy.

Recognizing Symptoms of Jealousy

  • Constant Comparison: Frequently measuring your success against others.

  • Resentment: Feeling bitter when others achieve something good.

  • Sabotaging Others: Deliberate or passive actions to bring others down.

  • Low Self-Worth: Believing you’re never good enough compared to peers.

Building a Jealousy-Free Community

  • Promote Empathy: Teach children and adults to understand and appreciate others’ feelings.

  • Encourage Collaboration Over Competition: Communities thrive when members uplift rather than outdo one another.

  • Celebrate Others’ Success: Make it a habit to commend achievements without envy.

  • Educate About Emotional Intelligence: Awareness of one’s emotions fosters a healthier society.

Conclusion

The Quran not only warns against the dangers of jealousy but also provides us clear guidance on how to overcome it. From the tragic stories of early prophets to spiritual remedies for a troubled heart, Islamic teachings align remarkably well with modern social psychology. For those eager to explore these concepts deeply, Muhammadan Quran School offers online Quran classes for both children and adults, promoting spiritual growth and moral development in a flexible, inclusive environment.

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