What Does the Quran Define as True Success in This Life?

Understanding the Question

Many people ask what true success really means according to the Quran. Is success limited to material comfort and wealth, or does the Quran describe a broader understanding that connects daily work, faith, and accountability?

Quranic Guidance on Success, Work, and Balance

The Quran does not teach people to abandon worldly life or withdraw from responsibility. Instead, it presents a balanced path. After mentioning prayer, Allah instructs believers to actively seek lawful provision: “When the prayer has ended, disperse in the land and seek from the bounty of Allah” (Surah Al-Jumu‘ah 62:10). This verse shows that spiritual devotion and productive effort are meant to exist together.

The Quran further clarifies this balance by reminding believers not to ignore their worldly responsibilities while striving for the Hereafter: “Seek, through what Allah has given you, the Home of the Hereafter, but do not forget your share of the world” (Surah Al-Qasas 28:77). Worldly effort, when guided by faith and lawful intention, becomes part of a meaningful life rather than a distraction from it.

True success, therefore, is not defined by wealth alone, nor by rejecting material life. The Quran repeatedly warns that possessions should not divert the heart from remembrance of Allah (Surah Al-Munafiqun 63:9). Success lies in fulfilling worldly duties responsibly while using one’s resources to obey Allah, serve others, and remain mindful of the Hereafter.

Three Practical Reflections to Apply

• 1. Renew the intention behind work:
  The Quran connects prayer with seeking livelihood, as seen in Surah Al-Jumu‘ah (62:10). When a person leaves for work with the intention of supporting family, remaining independent, and helping others, that effort aligns with obedience to Allah. A small change in intention can give long hours of work the value of responsibility and purpose.
• 2. Treat wealth as a means, not the final goal:
  The Quran cautions that wealth should not distract from remembrance of Allah (Surah Al-Munafiqun 63:9). Viewing money as a tool—rather than life’s ultimate goal—helps a person remain balanced. In this way, wealth serves faith, instead of faith being sacrificed for wealth.
• 3. Practice gratitude to seek blessing and peace:
  Allah promises, “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you” (Surah Ibrahim 14:7). This increase may come as material ease or inner peace. Making a habit of thanking Allah for whatever provision comes each day helps reduce dissatisfaction and emotional pressure.

A Short Supplication

Arabic:
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ

Transliteration:
Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah, wa fil-akhirati hasanah, wa qina adhaban-nar.

Meaning:
Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:201)

And Allah knows best.

Related reflection: How Can I Find Tranquility When Life Feels Overwhelming?