Fear Regarding Provision (Al-Khawf 'Ala Ar-Rizq)

Fear regarding provision is an anxiety about sustenance — the persistent worry that you won't have enough, that your income will dry up, or that financial ruin is around the corner. It is the opposite of tawakkul (trust in Allah as the Provider).

Definition

Al-Khawf 'Ala Ar-Rizq is the obsessive fear about money, food, or material security. It leads to hoarding, overworking, compromising ethics for income, and a constant state of financial anxiety — even when there is enough. The root cause is a weak belief that Allah is Ar-Razzaq (the Provider).

Signs of Fear Regarding Provision

• Constant anxiety about money even when needs are met
• Inability to give in charity because of fear of running out
• Overworking at the expense of worship, family, and health
• Making haram income because halal options "aren't enough"
• Hoarding beyond any reasonable need
• Measuring your worth by your net worth

Islamic Perspective

Allah says: "And there is no creature on earth but that upon Allah is its provision." (Hud 11:6)

And: "And whoever fears Allah — He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect." (At-Talaq 65:2-3)

The Prophet ﷺ said: "If you were to rely upon Allah with the reliance He is due, He would provide for you as He provides for the birds — they go out hungry in the morning and return full in the evening." (Tirmidhi)

Treatment

1. Learn the Name Ar-Razzaq: Internalize that provision is in Allah's hands, not your employer's
2. Give sadaqah when you're afraid: The Prophet ﷺ taught that charity does not decrease wealth
3. Pray Salat Al-Duha: The prayer of provision and gratitude
4. Trust the process: Take reasonable means, then let go of the anxiety
5. Read Surah Al-Waqi'ah: The Prophet ﷺ called it the surah of wealth
6. Study the stories of the Prophets: Ibrahim left his family in a barren desert trusting Allah — and Allah provided