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Islamic Studies

1. Competition in Good Deeds (Musabaqah fi al-Khayrat)

What it means:

  • Competing in Islam is not about money, status, or showing off.

  • It means trying to do good deeds faster and better, so we don’t waste time on useless things.

  • The goal is not to beat others, but to motivate each other so more people do good.

Qur’an References:

  • Al-Baqarah 2:148 → “So race to [all that is] good.”

  • Al-Ma’idah 5:48 → “So vie with one another in good deeds.”

Examples of good deeds to compete in:

  • Praying on time

  • Helping your parents / being kind

  • Studying hard (seeking knowledge)

  • Giving charity (sadaqah)

  • Saying good words, avoiding gossip

  • Caring for the environment

Why it matters:

  • Makes society better (everyone helps, cares, and works hard).

  • Protects us from laziness and wasting time.

  • Brings reward from Allah in this world and the Hereafter.

2. Work Ethic in Islam

What it means:

  • In Islam, work is worship if done sincerely and honestly.

  • Working hard and being trustworthy is part of faith (iman).

  • Prophet Muhammad ﷺ gave great importance to working with your own hands.

Hadith:

  • Prophet said: “The best food is the one you earn with your own hands.” (Bukhari)

Main values of Islamic Work Ethic:

  1. Ikhlas (Sincerity) → Work to please Allah, not just people.

  2. Amanah (Trustworthiness) → Be honest, don’t cheat, don’t lie.

  3. Ihsan (Excellence) → Do your best in every task.

  4. Avoid Laziness → Prophet disliked laziness and wasting time.

  5. Fairness → Treat people justly in work and business.

Examples:

  • A student studying seriously (not cheating).

  • A worker doing their job honestly.

  • A shopkeeper being fair with customers.

  • Helping at home without complaining.

Why it matters:

  • Builds strong character.

  • Earns Allah’s blessings.

  • Makes the community successful, fair, and trustworthy.

3. Connection Between Both

  • Competition in good deeds = doing acts of kindness and worship.

  • Work ethic = doing your daily responsibilities honestly and properly.

  • Together, they mean:

    • A Muslim should always try their best in both religious and worldly matters.

    • Don’t be lazy, dishonest, or wasteful.

    • Instead, be active, honest, and hardworking in every part of life.