The True Meaning of Success as a Muslim Ummah

In today's world, success is often measured by economic growth, political influence, technological advancements, and adherence to modern democratic principles. Many nations define progress through concepts such as liberal freedoms, gender equality, and international recognition. However, as the Muslim Ummah, our perspective on success should not be dictated by these external benchmarks. Instead, we must align our understanding of success with how Allah (swt) defines it in the Quran and Sunnah.

True success in Islam is not measured by material wealth, power, or adherence to Western ideologies. Rather, it is found in submission to Allah's commands, the establishment of His Laws, and adherence to the moral and ethical principles of Islam. The Muslim Ummah should strive for a society that is governed by justice, piety, and adherence to divine legislation, rather than seeking validation from secular institutions or international agreements that contradict Islamic teachings.

A truly successful Ummah is one that upholds Tawheed (the oneness of Allah) and implements the Shariah in all aspects of life—whether in governance, economy, or social conduct. The Prophet Muhammad (saw) and his companions established a model society based on these principles, prioritizing faith, justice, and obedience to Allah above worldly achievements. It is this model that should guide our aspirations rather than the fleeting standards of worldly success.

Moreover, the Quran repeatedly emphasizes that success is not determined by wealth or power but by righteousness and devotion to Allah. As Allah (swt) states in the Quran:

[وَمَن يُطِعِ ٱللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُۥ وَيَخْشَ ٱللَّهَ وَيَتَّقْهِ فَأُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلْفَآئِزُونَ]

“And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger and fears Allah and is conscious of Him - it is those who will be the successful.” [Surah An-Nur 24:52].

Thus, as an Ummah, our primary goal should be to revive the Islamic way of life, ensuring that our political, economic, and social systems are based on the guidance provided by Allah (swt). By doing so, we achieve true success—both in this world and in the Hereafter. Instead of measuring ourselves against secular benchmarks, we must strive to fulfill the divine trust given to us by upholding Islam in its entirety and working towards the re-establishment of an Islamic state that embodies these principles.

In conclusion, success for the Muslim Ummah should not be defined by Western ideals of progress and civilization. Rather, it must be understood through the lens of Islam—by adhering to the divine laws and striving to implement them in every aspect of life. This is the only path to true success, as defined by Allah (swt), leading to both worldly prosperity and eternal reward in the Hereafter.

Written for the Central Media Office of Hizb ut Tahrir by
Sumaya Bint Khayyat