5 Signs of Envy: Which side are you on? The Spiritual & Scientific Healing for Jealousy: What Hadith & Modern Psychology Say

Dear Readers,

Heart collecting the uneasiness of someone's success

Jealousy is a natural human emotion. It arises from feelings of social comparison. We often find ourselves shifting between being the envier and the envied. (Parrott & Smith, 1993; Festinger, 1954).

In essence, jealousy occurs when the jealous person feels threatened and insecure. It is frequently linked to anxiety and relational conflicts. (Guerrero et al, 2005).

When envy strikes, it can lead to experiences of decreased social value. This often manifests as social undermining behaviors, such as rejection or sabotage from those who harbor malicious envy. (Exline & Lobel, 1999).

Understanding our role in these dynamics is crucial. We have the power to respond productively, managing our envy and setting boundaries against hostility.

The last Prophet ﷺ said:

"There has crept unto you the diseases of the nations before you: envy and hatred. They are the destroyer (Al-Haliqah). I do not say that it shaves off the hair, but it shaves off the religion."

Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī (2518)

That’s why I’m sharing these five key signs today. They will help you identify envy through the lens of the Quran, Hadith, and modern science.

Let’s Quickly Check Where We Stand!

5 Signs You Feel Envy or Jealousy

When You Harbour Jealousy in Your Heart:

1. Resentment at Others’ Success: You feel uneasy or bitter when someone succeeds.

2. Wishing Harm Upon Them: You secretly desire their downfall or misfortune.

3. Joy in Their Failures: You feel happy hearing about their struggles or losses.

4. Avoidance & Distance: You instinctively avoid them or reduce communication.

5. Focusing on Their Flaws: You constantly notice and criticize their mistakes.

5 Signs Someone Is Envious of You (Mahsood)

When You’re the Target of Jealousy:

1. Sudden Anxiety & Stress: You feel uneasy around certain people who undermine you with fake smiles and hidden competition.

2. Unexpected Fatigue or Illness: You feel drained or sick without a medical cause.

3. Sleep Disturbances: Frequent nightmares or disrupted sleep patterns.

4. Loss of Blessings (Barakah): Things feel "cursed." Even good plans lose momentum.

5. Increased Problems: Unexplained tensions at home or work. Obstacles arise without clear reasons.

Is There Scientific Evidence for These Signs?

Modern research shows that envy and jealousy trigger cortisol, the stress hormone. This leads to:

1. Chronic fatigue

2. Poor sleep quality

3. Increased anxiety and stress

4. Reduced decision-making ability

Envy harms both the envier and the envied—emotionally, spiritually, and even physically. Recognizing these signs can help you address negativity and protect your well-being.

The Cure: Healing Through Prophetic Medicine

Repentance + Daily Supplications.

اللَّهُمَّ طَهِّرْ قَلْبِي مِنَ الْحِقْدِ وَ الْحَسَد

“Allahumma tahhir qalbi min al-hiqdi wal-hasad.”

(O Allah, purify my heart from malice and envy.)

The Protection: Quranic & Prophetic Shields

1. Morning/Evening Adhkar:

أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ

“A’udhu bi kalimatillahi at-tammati min sharri ma khalaq.”

(I seek refuge in Allah’s perfect words from the evil of His creation.) (Muslim)

2. Ayatul Kursi (Quran 2:255):

Recite after every Salah to block evil.

3. Ruqyah Protection:

Blow on your hands after reciting the following Surahs (3x times):

• Surah Al-Ikhlas

• Surah Al-Falaq

• Surah An-Nas

  
  

Then wipe over your body. (Sunan Abu Dawud)

Understanding Envy as a Deep Sickness

In the upcoming blog, we will delve deeper into why envy is referred to as a deep sickness—a disease of the heart or soul. It’s essential to learn to understand ourselves and help others avoid this destructive emotion.

Has such an incident ever happened to you? Comment below or share your thoughts with us via email or chat.

جزاک اللہ خیرا