The Thinking Muslim Can Money Buy Happiness? Advice from an Islamic Finance Insider | Umer Suleman
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Sep 2, 2025 Umer Suleman, Chief Risk Officer at Wahed, dives deep into the bond between money and happiness from an Islamic perspective. He reveals how true fulfillment comes from contentment rather than wealth alone. The conversation sheds light on the ethics of Islamic finance versus traditional banking, emphasizing the harm of interest and the importance of community well-being. Umer discusses strategic philanthropy, urging the Muslim community to focus on meaningful giving and the ethical implications of wealth, all while navigating the complexities of modern capitalism.
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Money Versus True Contentment
- Money can make life comfortable and create the perception of happiness but it does not deliver true contentment.
- Umer Suleman observed simple, poor people often display deeper contentment than many very wealthy people.
Contentment In A Pakistani Village
- Umer recounts visiting a poor Pakistani village where an elderly woman warmly offered what little she had.
- Despite her poverty she repeatedly said 'alhamdulillah' and showed notable hospitality and contentment.
Wealth Is A Neutral Facilitator
- Islam treats wealth as neutral and a facilitator rather than intrinsically good or bad.
- The faith stresses responsibility and how wealth is used, not arbitrary caps on accumulation.