Theme: Business Ethics in Islam

Narrated by Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him), that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said “A time will come to humankind when a person will not care whether what they get comes from a lawful or an unlawful means.”

(Source: Sahih Bukhari, hadith No. 2059)

In the hadith above, our beloved Prophet (ﷺ) revealed to us that there would come a time when people would have little regard for how they earn their livings. These people are described as those whose religion and consciences are depraved, disregarding the means from which their income is derived.

When it comes to earning a living and accumulating wealth, Allah SWT has made it clear to us the lawful means (i.e., providing goods and services) and the unlawful means (i.e., interest earnings), along with specific guidelines to which we should adhere. The Prophet (ﷺ) also has addressed the importance of lawful income as it will account for our deeds in the hereafter. He (ﷺ) stresses the accountability of a Muslim on the Day of Judgement, where Allah SWT will be questioning how we earned and spent our wealth throughout our lives.

As Muslims, we firmly believe that Islam is a way of life. Its commands and prohibitions help us navigate this life to attain Allah’s pleasures and blessings. Income should only be derived from halal means. It is upon every Muslim to do their due diligence before acquiring any form of wealth.