Stinginess (Bukhl)

Bukhl is withholding wealth and refusing to be generous, even when one has the means to give.

Definition

Stinginess is the excessive attachment to wealth and the reluctance to spend it in righteous causes or help others in need.

Signs of Stinginess

• Reluctance to give charity despite having wealth
• Feeling pain when spending money, even for necessities
• Hoarding wealth without good reason
• Refusing to help family or friends in need
• Prioritizing accumulation over generosity

Islamic Perspective

Allah says: "And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful." ( Al-Hashr 59:9)

The Prophet ﷺ warned: "Beware of stinginess, for it destroyed those before you." (Abu Dawud)

Treatment

1. Practice charity: Start with small amounts and gradually increase
2. Remember death: Wealth cannot be taken to the grave
3. Trust in Allah: Believe that spending in His cause increases, not decreases wealth
4. Study generosity: Learn about the generous nature of the Prophet ﷺ
5. Calculate zakah: Fulfill the obligatory charity as a minimum
6. Reflect on blessings: Remember that all wealth is a trust from Allah