Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Do not wish to be like anybody except in two cases: The case of a man whom Allah has given wealth and he spends it in the right way, and that of a man whom Allah has given religious wisdom (i.e., Qur'an and Sunna) and he gives his verdicts according to it and teaches it." (to others i.e., religious knowledge of Qur'an and Sunna (Prophet's Traditions)). "
The Excellence of Wealth Rightly Spent
The first category worthy of emulation is one whom Allah has blessed with material wealth, which he disburses in obedience to Allah—in obligatory charities (zakat), voluntary acts of charity (sadaqah), supporting his family, and other lawful expenditures that draw him closer to his Lord.
This indicates that wealth is not blameworthy in itself; rather, blame lies in its hoarding or spending in disobedience. When utilized correctly, wealth becomes a means of great reward and a source of benefit for the community.
The Superiority of Religious Knowledge
The second and more distinguished category is one granted divine understanding of the Qur'an and Sunnah. This encompasses not merely memorization, but comprehension that enables him to derive rulings, teach others, and implement this knowledge in his life.
This religious wisdom is superior to worldly wealth because it benefits both its possessor and others, guides to righteousness, and remains as ongoing charity (sadaqah jariyah) after death.
Prohibition of Worldly Competition
The hadith prohibits desiring others' worldly status, beauty, or power, as such envy leads to spiritual corruption and discontent with divine decree (qadr).
It redirects Muslim aspiration toward spiritual and beneficial competition (al-munafasah) in matters that yield eternal reward, aligning one's desires with what pleases Allah.
Practical Implementation
Scholars explain that this teaching encourages Muslims to seek beneficial knowledge and lawful wealth with the intention of serving Allah's religion and creation.
One should study the lives of the righteous predecessors (salaf) and contemporary scholars who embody these qualities, making them worthy role models for emulation in devotion and service.