THE SECRET OF
INNER PEACE

Abu Huraira reported that the Prophet of Islam said: “Look at those who are below you, and do not look at those who are above you. This will help you avoid undervaluing the blessings God has given you.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 2963)

This is a profound principle of life. In the world, as it stands, nature’s system itself ensures that some people will have more and others will have less. This difference is never going to disappear. In such a world, the only path to peace is to avoid making unwise comparisons between oneself and others.

If someone keeps looking at those above them in wealth or status, it results in envy and a loss of inner peace. In contrast, those who focus on people with less will develop a sense of gratitude—and with that gratitude comes deep inner calm. Their days pass in contentment, and they sleep peacefully at night.

This is a deeply meaningful statement, often attributed to the famous English playwright Shakespeare (1565–1616): “It is by comparison that you suffer.”

Differences in people’s abilities, opportunities, and possessions are part of the natural order. There is deep wisdom in this arrangement. It creates an ongoing sense of challenge among people, and this spirit of challenge is the foundation of all progress. If this challenge were to disappear, the motivation for growth and development in human society would fade away.

A person should express gratitude when they see someone who has less. And when they see someone who has more, they should strive to move forward with a spirit of healthy competition.