Tawakkul is one of the most important characteristics of a Muslim. It means to have full faith in Allah. The lack of Tawakkul indicates a complete lack of Iman. Therefore, Tawakkul stays in the heart, not in the body. Imam Baihaqi says in his book Shua’b Al Eeman as follows:
لَيْسَ التَّوَكُّلُ الْكَسْبَ ، وَلا تَرَكَ الْكَسْبِ ، التَّوَكُّلُ شَيْءٌ فِي الْقُلُوبِ
Tawakkul is neither to work not to leave the work, but Tawakkul is a thing in the heart.
Leaving the means of livelihood on the pretext of Tawakkul doesn’t make any sense. Tawakkul has different aspects and it changes according to the people involved. In any circumstance, Tawakkul should not contradict any established law of Shariah. One of the basic duties of the father is to feed his child, his Tawakkul is to earn money by lawful means and to raise the child, keeping in mind that it is Allah who gives strength to earn money and it is Allah who brings up the child, he should not refrain from earning money and leave the child in hunger. At the same time, a bachelor (ie a person nobody depends on him for sustenance) has other options; he may either work hard and give in charity or serve society with no reward, both of which come under Tawakkul. One is even allowed to refrain from marriage if he feels that the marriage decreases his devoutness.
Some assume that Tawakkul has a completely negative connotation; One who is in the state of Tawakkul is being forced to beg. According to them, Tawakkul means to stop using all means of sustenance. The Sheikh therefore rectifies the incorrect concept of Tawakkul.
Some people have a different attitude. They stay at home and don’t go to work or earn anything. Then they want philanthropists to give them money, food or any kind of help. Author says: Don’t be lazy and greedy towards the wealthy. Don’t wish to have high worldly status. Instead, work hard so that you will not depend on others.