知足（qanāʿa）在我们这个时代是一种失落的美德。为什么？

Contentment (qana`a) is a lost virtue in our times. Why?

我们不断受到现代资本主义世界的熏陶，被灌输这样一种观念：我们是自己命运的主宰。人们被告知，是否能够取得成功、获得财富，全凭自己的努力、热情和干劲。至于真主的前定与分配，在这样的图景中却毫无位置。于是人们永远无法知足，因为他们只依靠自己，然而事实是，我们每个人都是软弱无力的，真正做决定的是真主。

We are constantly being conditioned by the modern capitalistic world to see ourselves as masters of our own destiny. All that separates us from success and riches is our own effort and passion and drive, so we are told. The concepts of Allah’s decree and apportionment are nowhere in the picture. So people can never be content because they rely on themselves despite the reality that we are all impotent and it is Allah who decides.

这些都是关乎心灵的事务。如果你发现自己在生活中不满足、心神不宁，就应当反思知足，并坚定地相信你的造物主拥有权能与掌控。

These are matters of the heart. If you find yourself unsatisfied in life and restless, reflect on contentment and your conviction in the power and the control of your Creator.