Productivity: Great Concept in Islam

Devin Halim Wijaya9 September 2024

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In Islam, productivity is not merely about material achievements but involves balancing spiritual, physical, and mental aspects. Every action a Muslim undertakes, whether work, worship, or social interaction, should be aimed at attaining Allah’s pleasure. Islam views productivity as the optimal utilization of one’s potential in both worldly and spiritual matters. This article explores productivity from an Islamic perspective, citing examples from the Qur’an, Hadith, and the lives of the Prophet’s companions.

The Concept of Productivity in Islam

Islam teaches that productivity is closely tied to time management and doing good deeds. Allah ta’ala says in the Qur’an:

وَالْعَصْرِ ۝ إِنَّ الْإِنسَانَ لَفِي خُسْرٍ ۝ إِلَّا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ وَتَوَاصَوْا بِالْحَقِّ وَتَوَاصَوْا بِالصَّبْرِ
“By time, indeed mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds, and advised each other to truth and patience” (QS. Al-‘Asr: 1-3).

This verse highlights that individuals who do not use their time for good deeds and righteous actions are at a loss. Therefore, productivity in Islam is not just about worldly achievements but also involves actions that benefit the Hereafter.

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

Lessons from the Companions of the Prophet

The companions of the Prophet Muhammad shallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam offer a great example of how productivity should be balanced between worldly matters and worship. They were able to achieve excellence in both spheres while maintaining their religious obligations. For instance, Umar ibn Khattab radhiyallahu ‘anhu, a prominent leader, showed remarkable productivity in managing time between leadership responsibilities, worship, and serving the community. His practice of shura (consultation) also demonstrates how collaboration and collective decision-making can enhance productivity (Quran Academy, 2019).

Habits to Boost Productivity

According to Productive Muslim, several habits can help enhance a Muslim’s productivity. First, sincerity of intention: every action must be done with the intention of pleasing Allah ta’ala. Second, maintaining balance between worldly life and the Hereafter. Allah ta’ala says:

وَابْتَغِ فِيمَا آتَاكَ اللَّهُ الدَّارَ الْآخِرَةَ وَلَا تَنسَ نَصِيبَكَ مِنَ الدُّنْيَا
“And seek, with what Allah has provided you, the home of the Hereafter; but do not forget your share of the world” (QS. Al-Qasas: 77).

Third, disciplined time management and prioritizing tasks. A productive Muslim is one who manages their time effectively between work, worship, family, and rest (Productive Muslim, 2015).

Also read:Amanah as a Professional Ethic in Islam

Productivity in the Workplace

Productivity at work is highly valued in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad shallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ إِذَا عَمِلَ أَحَدُكُمْ عَمَلًا أَنْ يُتْقِنَهُ
“Indeed, Allah loves when one of you does a job, he perfects it” (HR. Thabrani).

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of professionalism and quality in work. A Muslim should work with integrity, dedication, and sincerity, as working productively honors the time and potential Allah has bestowed upon them (Litigasi, 2023).

Time Management in Islam

Time management is crucial for productivity in Islam. The Qur’an and Hadith emphasize not wasting time. Allah ta’ala says:

وَلَا تُطِعْ مَنْ أَغْفَلْنَا قَلْبَهُ عَنْ ذِكْرِنَا وَاتَّبَعَ هَوَاهُ وَكَانَ أَمْرُهُ فُرُطًا
“And do not follow those whose hearts We have made heedless of Our remembrance, and who follow their desires, and whose affair is wasteful” (QS. Al-Kahfi: 28).

This verse warns against becoming heedless and wasting time in unproductive pursuits. Good time management enables a Muslim to balance worldly duties and spiritual obligations, ensuring that no time is wasted in pursuing activities that benefit both worlds (Bersama Islam, 2020).

Also read:Why and When We Should Pursue Passive Income?

Conclusion

Productivity in Islam encompasses physical, spiritual, and mental aspects. A productive Muslim manages time efficiently, works with sincere intentions, and balances worldly responsibilities with spiritual duties. By following the example of the Prophet shallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam and his companions, every Muslim can achieve meaningful productivity that benefits them in both this life and the Hereafter.

Also read:Balance Between Worldly Life and Hereafter According to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ