Working can be an act of worship when done with good intentions and in accordance with religious principles. Let's delve into Prophet Muhammad's teachings on the value of labor in the path of Allah.
Work is undeniably a crucial activity in human life. Through work, we meet various needs, both for ourselves and our families. Interestingly, work can also be a form of worship to Allah SWT if we carry it out with pure intentions and in compliance with Islamic principles.
However, our toil should never make us forget our true life purpose – serving Allah SWT. Islam doesn't forbid us from seeking lawful sustenance, but it does warn against loving the material world more than Allah SWT. This love for the world, known as "hubbud dunya," is a spiritual ailment that can jeopardize our hereafter.
Prophet Muhammad's Explanation of the Value of Labor in the Presence of His Companions
In Imam Ghazali's book, "Ihya Ulumuddin," a story illustrates how Prophet Muhammad SAW explained the significance of labor to his companions. One morning, while sitting with his companions, a robust and healthy young man passed by, dressed for work.
One of the companions commented, "It would be better if this young and vigorous man used his time to engage in jihad in the path of Allah (fi sabilillah)." Upon hearing this remark, Prophet Muhammad SAW promptly addressed it with great wisdom.
Prophet Muhammad SAW said, "Do not say that, my dear companion. If someone works to meet their own needs, ensuring they don't burden others, then they are indeed on the path of Allah. If someone works to provide for their parents, family, or descendants, preventing them from falling into poverty, then they are also on the path of Allah. However, if someone works to show off or amass wealth solely for worldly pleasures, then they are on the path of Satan (fi sabilis syaithan)."
From Prophet Muhammad's explanation, we can understand that work can indeed be an act of worship in the path of Allah when undertaken with righteous intentions – for one's well-being, their family's welfare, and the betterment of society. It can also serve as a means to achieve economic independence, both personally and collectively, reducing reliance on external assistance.
Conversely, work can become sinful when driven by ill intentions – to gratify one's desires or chase after worldly pleasures. Engaging in work with such intentions can divert us from our obligations as servants of Allah SWT and distance us from His mercy. Wallahu a'lam.
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