The Ethics of a Moslem Professional: Honoring Work Hours

Devin Halim Wijaya20 January 2025

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In Islam working is a way to worship Allah ta’ala in addition to providing for material needs. Thus it is crucial for Muslims to respect working hours and uphold ethics and responsibilities in the workplace. This article addresses the morality of a Muslim professional in respecting working hours drawing from Hadiths, Quranic verses, and Islamic teachings.

Islams concept of trust or amanah

Every task we perform in Islam is regarded as a trust (amanah) from Allah and other people. This trust is based on integrity self-control and dedication to ones duties. This is what Allah TA’ALA states in the Quran:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْمُرُكُمْ أَنْ تُؤَدُّوا الْأَمَانَاتِ إِلَى أَهْلِهَا
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due.” (QS. An-Nisa: 58).

This verse highlights the significance of carrying out commitments with honesty which includes keeping to scheduled working hours. Ignoring this duty can result in a betrayal of trust which is strongly discouraged in Islam. Furthermore through the following Hadith the Prophet Muhammad shallallahu alaihi wa sallam emphasized responsibility:

كُلُّكُمْ رَاعٍ وَكُلُّكُمْ مَسْئُولٌ عَنْ رَعِيَّتِهِ
“Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you will be asked about his flock.” (Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim).

Respecting working hours is one of the duties for which every Muslim will be held responsible in the Hereafter.

Working Hours as a Part of Agreement

Islamic teachings state that a contractual agreement between employers and employees is the foundation of their relationship and must be upheld. Working hours job duties and compensation are all covered in this agreement. Breaking this agreement like quitting your job without a good reason is regarded as being against Islam. It is a breach of trust to leave the office during business hours without a valid reason. Employees are also required to carry out their responsibilities as specified in the contract because their pay is recompense for their labor and time.

Also read:Upgrade Skills as a Sign of a Good Muslim Professional

Prophetic Teachings on Discipline and Diligence

Through his teachings the Prophet Muhammad SHALLALLAHU ALAIHI WA SALLAM established a model of professionalism and discipline. He said in his hadits:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ إِذَا عَمِلَ أَحَدُكُمْ عَمَلًا أَنْ يُتْقِنَهُ

In fact Allah is pleased when any of you do a task, to do it proficiently. (Narrated by Al-Baihaqi)

This Hadith emphasizes how important it is to work hard and well which includes honoring working hours. In addition to having a right to their pay employees also have an obligation to complete their work honestly and on schedule.

Islamic Guidelines for Respecting Working Hours

The following guidelines must be adhered to by Muslim professionals in order to represent Islamic values at work

1.Honoring the agreed-upon work hours: One way to honor contracts is to respect working hours which is a quality of a believer. What Allah ta’ala says.

وَأَوْفُوا بِالْعَهْدِ إِنَّ الْعَهْدَ كَانَ مَسْئُولًا
“And fulfill every covenant. Indeed, the covenant will be questioned.” (QS. Al-Isra: 34)

2. Steer clear of negligence and laziness: Islam strongly discourages indolence and failure to fulfill work obligations. Rather those who work hard and sincerely are praised by Allah ta’ala. Hardworking hands are favored by Allah compared to lazy ones.

3. Effective time management: Time is a resource that must be used wisely. This was emphasized by the Prophet shallallahu alaihi wa sallam:

نِعْمَتَانِ مَغْبُونٌ فِيهِمَا كَثِيرٌ مِنَ النَّاسِ: الصِّحَّةُ وَالْفَرَاغُ
“Two blessings that many people squander: health and free time.” (HR. Bukhari)

A person can fulfill their duties to Allah and their employers by practicing time management.

Also read:Amanah as a Professional Ethic in Islam

benefits of adhering to working hours

The following are some material and spiritual advantages of keeping working hours:

1.blessings at work: Peace of mind and lawful incomes are two benefits of being conscientious and on time for work. Those who keep their word and carry out their obligations are rewarded by Allah ta’ala.

2. Improved reputation in the workplace: A Muslim professional who maintains discipline is respected by coworkers employers and the community at large. By demonstrating this side of the beauty of Islamic teachings, this can act as a kind of dawah.

3.establishing a feeling of accountability: A Muslim who observes their working hours develops accountability a critical trait in both their personal and professional lives.

In conclusion

In addition to being a professional duty honoring working hours is a reflection of a Muslims beliefs and principles. When Muslim professionals recognize that their work is a trust (amanah) they can approach their work with honesty commitment and integrity. This dedication guarantees blessings and rewards in the Hereafter in addition to success in this life.

Also read:Muslim Business Ethics : Punctuality