Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu was one of the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) who was known for his strong faith and abundant wealth. His life story, especially after his hijrah to Madinah, provides many valuable lessons on how to build a business with solid Islamic principles. This article will discuss how Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu built his wealth in Madinah with integrity and hard work.
Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu
Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu was born around 580 AD in Mecca. He was one of the ten companions who the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) promised entry into paradise. Before migrating to Medina, Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu was a successful merchant in Mecca. When Islam began to spread, he was one of the first eight people to embrace Islam, despite having to face various forms of torture and pressure from the Quraysh.
The Story of the Hijrah of Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu
The Hijrah to Madinah was an important turning point in the life of Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu. He left all his possessions in Mecca to join the Muslim community in Medina. Upon his arrival in Medina, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) befriended Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu with Sa’ad bin Rabi’, a wealthy merchant in Medina. Sa’d offered Abdurrahman half of his wealth and one of his wives, but he politely declined and asked to be shown the market so that he could start his own business (Lings, 1983).
The Story of Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu Building His Business in Madinah
Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu immediately started trading in the market of Madinah by utilising his trading experience and skills. He started by selling butter and cheese, and from there, his business flourished. One of the keys to his success was his honesty and high business ethics. Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu always ensured that his merchandise was of quality and never cheated his customers. He was also diligent in giving alms, which not only increased the blessings of his business, but also strengthened his social relations with the people of Medina (Lings, 1983).
In a short period of time, Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu managed to build an extensive business network and became one of the richest men in Medina. He invested in various fields, including trade, agriculture, and animal husbandry. In addition, Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu was also known to be very generous. He often donated most of his wealth to support the cause of Islam, including in financing wars and helping the poor (Hamidullah, 1981).
Business Lessons from the Story of Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu
From the story of Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu, there are several important lessons that can be taken:
- Honesty in Business: Honesty is the main foundation in business. Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu was always honest in every transaction, which made him trusted by his customers and business partners.
- Hard Work and Persistence: Despite starting from scratch in Medina, Abdurrahman never gave up. His hard work and perseverance paid off handsomely.
- Charity: Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu’s generosity brought blessings in his life and also strengthened his social and business networks.
- Seizing Opportunities: He was always ready to take advantage of opportunities that existed around him. From selling butter and cheese, he continued to expand his business into various sectors.
- Integrity and Ethics: Running a business with high integrity and ethics made Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu respected and loved by the people of Medina.
The story of Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu is a clear example of how a Muslim can succeed in business while adhering to the principles of Islam. Honesty, hard work, generosity, and high ethics are the main keys to Abdurrahman bin Auf Radhiyallahu anhu’s success. Hopefully, this story can be an inspiration for all of us in living life and business with integrity and faith.
Wallahu a’lam
References
- Hamidullah, M. (1981). The Prophet’s Establishing a State and His Succession. Kuala Lumpur: Islamic Book Trust.
- Lings, M. (1983). Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources. London: Islamic Texts Society.
- المراجعة, فريق. (2023, August 23). سر نجاح تجارة عبد الرحمن بن عوف. صناع المال. https://www.almaal.org/the-secret-of-the-success-of-the-trade-of-abdul-rahman-bin-auf
