Is Sustenance (Rizq) Earned Only Through Hard Work or Given by Allah?
Many people wonder:
Is sustenance (rizq) the result of hard work alone, or does it come from Allah?
The Qur’an answers this question clearly and in a balanced way.
📖 Qur’anic Reference (Surah Hud, Verse 6)
“And there is no creature on earth but that upon Allah is its provision.”
(Surah Hud 11:6)
This verse clearly states that Allah Himself has taken responsibility for the sustenance of every living being on earth.
🌟 What Does the Qur’an Teach About Rizq?
From this verse, we learn that:
- Allah is the true Provider
- The sustenance of every human, animal, and creature is already known and decreed by Allah
- No one can take another’s rizq, nor can anyone stop what Allah has decided
💼 Then What Is the Role of Hard Work?
Islam does not teach laziness. The Qur’an also commands effort and action:
“So walk among its slopes and eat of His provision.”
(Surah Al-Mulk 67:15)
This shows that:
- Effort is required from humans
- Provision comes from Allah
Hard work is a means, not the source.
⚖️ The Balanced Islamic View
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Provider | Allah |
| Means | Hard work and effort |
| Blessing in rizq | From Allah |
| Increase or decrease | By Allah’s wisdom |
🌾 A Simple Example
A farmer:
- Plants seeds
- Waters the field
- Protects the crops
But:
- Growth
- Fruit
- Blessings in harvest
All come only by Allah’s will
📌 Important Lessons
- Do not seek sustenance through haram (unlawful) means
- Never lose hope if rizq seems delayed
- Work hard, but trust Allah completely
🤲 Conclusion
Sustenance does not come from hard work alone,
and relying without effort is also incorrect.
✔️ Humans must strive
✔️ Allah grants provision
This is the clear and balanced teaching of the Qur’an.