Muslims urged to ditch negative beliefs about wealth

A UK-based Islamic wealth coach, Tanim Zaman, has challenged what he described as deep-rooted negative beliefs about money within the Muslim community, arguing that such mindsets continue to keep many Muslims financially weak despite the religion’s rich legacy of commerce and charity. Speaking at a forum in Abuja themed, “Rebuilding the Ummah: The Prophetic Roadmap […]

A UK-based Islamic wealth coach, Tanim Zaman, has challenged what he described as deep-rooted negative beliefs about money within the Muslim community, arguing that such mindsets continue to keep many Muslims financially weak despite the religion’s rich legacy of commerce and charity.

Speaking at a forum in Abuja themed, “Rebuilding the Ummah: The Prophetic Roadmap to True Success” organised by the Movement for Islamic Culture and Awareness (MICA), Zaman said Muslims would not transform their condition through politics or “trial and error,” but through what he called a “bulletproof system” built on correct beliefs, financial discipline and collective prosperity.

He noted that one of the biggest obstacles to wealth creation among Muslims is the widespread belief that money itself is the root cause of evil.

“Part of the false narrative is that money is the root of all evil. However, that is too simplistic. If you believe money is the cause of all evils, are you going to happily bring money into your life? You will subconsciously push the money away,” he said.

Zaman argued that money is morally neutral and only reflects the intentions of its holder.

“Money is not evil but neutral, depending on what the holder uses it for. Money is not the root of all evils, but an amplifier of who you truly are,” he added.

Drawing examples from early Islamic history, he noted that several wealthy companions of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used their riches to support Islam and strengthen society.

“The wealthy among the companions of the Prophet spent their money to promote Islam. We must remove, uninstall and delete this belief that money is the root of evil,” he said.

The coach also faulted another common assumption that wealthy people must have acquired their riches through illegitimate means, warning that such thinking creates resentment and discourages healthy financial ambition.

He further dismissed the notion that financial success automatically weakens spirituality.

“Among the Prophet’s companions who were promised Jannah, there were very wealthy individuals among them. So, holding a belief that more money will make me less spiritual does not make any sense,” he said.

According to him, many aspects of religious and community life depend heavily on financial resources.

“Da’awa costs money. Supporting your family, keeping the masjid clean and organising Islamic programmes to promote the religion cost money. If good people have more money, they will spend it on good causes,” he added.

The Abuja gathering brought together young people, professionals and Islamic thought leaders to discuss personal development, leadership and community advancement.

Also speaking at the event, Idris Tiamiyu, said Muslims must begin to see wealth creation as a collective responsibility capable of driving wider social impact.

Tiamiyu stressed the need for unity and economic collaboration within the Muslim community.

“When we work together to build wealth, the result will be impactful,” he added.