“Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us; He is our protector.” And upon Allah let the believers rely on.” (Surah At-Tawbah;9:5)
The evil eye is one of the reasons why people, especially Muslims have become skeptical towards sharing the happy wishes of others. Believers follow the perception of having faith in the Almighty and know that whatever He has planned best for you will happen. However, according to the Prophet Muhammad SAWW, privacy has been advised to the preachers when it comes to sharing your goals, achievements, and plans with others.
The Prophet Muhammad SAWW said:
استعينوا على قضاء حوائجكم بالكتمان
“Seek help to accomplish your goals (needs, requirements) through confidentiality.” – narrated by Mu’adh ibn Jabal, “Seek help in having your needs met by being discreet, for everyone who is blessed with something is envied.”
Shaitan is bad – he is the outright enemy of the Muslim man. Even if the person you are confiding in is good, Shaitan can throw his spear to make things worse for you.
Another Reason Why Islam Tells Us to Maintain Privacy of Plans Is Due to Jealousy
Surah Yousuf explains how the good news should not be narrated to the brothers, who may plan and plot something negatively in jealousy.
“O my son, do not relate your vision to your brothers or they will contrive against you a plan. Indeed Satan, to man, is a manifest enemy.” (12:5)
If a plan is working our way, we don’t even have to share it with our family members or the close people; until it becomes successful.
You don’t have to share it with the whole world that you are getting a promotion soon or that your newborn baby has a healthy diet – no matter how good some people are, the evil eye is very strong and it affects the livelihood.
“O, my sons! Enter not all by one gate, enter you through different gates. Not that I can profit you aught against Allah (with my advice). None can command except Allah. On Him do I put my trust and let all who trust put their trust in Him.” (Surah Yusuf, 67).
It is always advisable to do things in private and the world will see for themselves when you reach the right path to success.
May Allah guide us all on the right track, Ameen.
