Islam and the Working Environment: As Muslims, it is vital for us to continue carrying out the practice of Islam both in and out of our homes.
Dressing in full Islamic attire is one thing but putting our beliefs into practice is often entirely another.
Often, even when an individual works in an environment that has the facilities to carry out our religious duties, it still becomes difficult to individuals to keep on top of said duties due to the influences of the people they befriend and the distraction that can come with intermingling and goofing off at work.
In most cases, when an individual begins work, they tend to gradually adapt to work environment even if it’s not what is appropriate in deen (Islam) and for one’s imaan (faith).
It can be difficult to realise this when one is caught up in pleasure and routine which causes them to become oblivious to what is right and wrong.
Will the working environment have an effect on one’s character.
Our working environments can change us… or we can change them. We tend to shy away from imposing ourselves on the world which is well and good, but a lot of the time we go further and begin to neglect our deen and our duties in an effort to fit in.
A person who is on the path of haq (truth) can be misled onto the path of bi’dah( innovation) due to fear or intimidation when in an environment that they’re not brave enough to speak up in.
To avoid being disliked or labelled as an extremist, that person will gradually adapt the habits, mindset and appearance of those who speak the loudest – perhaps those who have allowed the trappings of the dunya to tempt them away from the path of haq ( truth ), the path which leads to eternal bliss and not temporary pleasure.
This is a very easy trap to fall into and a ridiculously difficult one to pull free from.
They say that prevention is better than cure so prevent yourself from allowing your imaan to weaken by being mindful and not shying away from practicing your Islam respectfully.
When a cup of water is removed from a lake, there seems to be no difference. But, a need is still fulfilled. Likewise, our small sacrifices may seem meaningless but they have a great effect when done for the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala.
Hold fast to your morals and principles for they are a way to earn you good deeds. You may even find yourself in a position where you’ve made someone curious and can give da’wah or even be a means for someone to find Islam. Subhanallah!
Finally, remember that Allah Ta’ala will make all things easy for us if we earnestly turn to Him first and consciously act in ways so as to please Him.
رَبَّنَا لَا تُزِغۡ قُلُوبَنَا بَعۡدَ إِذۡ هَدَيۡتَنَا وَهَبۡ لَنَا مِن لَّدُنكَ رَحۡمَةًۚ إِنَّكَ أَنتَ ٱلۡوَهَّابُ
[Who say], “Our Lord, let not our hearts deviate after You have guided us and grant us from Yourself mercy. Indeed, You are the Bestower.
Do remember these sinful slaves in your duas inshaAllah.
Raeesa Padia & Neymat Raboobee
