1. Honesty in Trade
The honest and trustworthy merchant will be with the Prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs.(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Book 12, Hadith 1209)
Explanation: Honesty in business elevates a person’s rank and earns immense rewards in the Hereafter.
2. Prohibition of Fraud
Whoever cheats is not one of us.(Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 102)
Explanation: Deceptive practices such as fraud and cheating are strictly prohibited, as they destroy trust and fairness.
3. Trustworthiness in Transactions
When a man gives a guarantee in business, he should not betray it.(Sunan Abu Dawood, Book 23, Hadith 3448)
Explanation: Maintaining trust in financial dealings reflects a believer’s sincerity and commitment to integrity.
4. Fair Weighing and Measuring
Give full measure when you measure, and weigh with an even balance.(Quran 17:35; Sunan Ibn Majah, Book 12, Hadith 2222)
Explanation: Islam commands fairness in weighing and measuring to prevent exploitation and dishonesty in trade.
5. Prohibition of Interest (Riba)
Allah has permitted trade and forbidden riba (interest).(Quran 2:275; Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 3, Hadith 28)
Explanation: Interest-based transactions exploit people and are prohibited, as they contradict the principles of justice and mutual benefit.
6. The Virtue of Generosity in Business
May Allah have mercy on a person who is generous when he buys, sells, and demands repayment.(Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 34, Hadith 290)
Explanation: Generosity and kindness in trade create goodwill and attract Allah’s blessings.
7. Delay in Repayment is an Injustice
Delaying payment by a person who can afford to pay is an act of injustice.(Sunan Abu Dawood, Book 23, Hadith 3536)
Explanation: It is unjust to delay repayment when one is able to fulfill their obligations.
8. Writing Down Contracts and Loans
When you contract a debt for a fixed period, write it down.(Quran 2:282; Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 41, Hadith 573)
Explanation: Written contracts help avoid misunderstandings and disputes in financial transactions.
9. Barakah (Blessing) in Early Trade
O Allah, bless my nation in their early morning transactions.(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Book 25, Hadith 2215)
Explanation: Engaging in trade early in the day brings blessings and increases productivity.
10. Prohibition of Hoarding Goods
Whoever hoards food with the intention of increasing its price has certainly erred.(Sunan Abu Dawood, Book 22, Hadith 3442)
Explanation: Hoarding essential goods to manipulate prices is forbidden, as it harms society and promotes greed.
11. Fairness in Selling Defective Items
It is not permissible to sell an item with defects unless the buyer is informed.(Sunan Ibn Majah, Book 12, Hadith 2221)
Explanation: Transparency in transactions ensures fairness and protects buyers from exploitation.
12. Prohibition of False Oaths in Trade
A person who swears a false oath to sell his product will face Allah’s wrath on the Day of Judgment.(Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 109)
Explanation: Taking false oaths to promote products is a serious sin that destroys trust.
13. Leniency in Debt Collection
Whoever is lenient with a debtor who is facing hardship will have his sins forgiven.(Sunan Ibn Majah, Book 17, Hadith 2417)
Explanation: Showing leniency toward those struggling to repay reflects compassion and earns Allah’s forgiveness.
14. Partnerships and Mutual Trust
Allah’s hand is with the partners as long as they do not betray each other.(Sunan Abu Dawood, Book 23, Hadith 3567)
Explanation: Successful partnerships are built on trust and honesty between parties.
15. Prohibition of Price Manipulation
Do not interfere with the market prices set by Allah.(Sahih Muslim, Book 21, Hadith 3910)
Explanation: Market manipulation, such as creating artificial shortages or inflating prices, is prohibited in Islam.
16. Paying Wages on Time
Give the worker his wages before his sweat dries.(Sunan Ibn Majah, Book 16, Hadith 2443)
Explanation: Timely payment of wages reflects justice and respect toward workers.
17. Avoiding Ambiguous Contracts
The Prophet (PBUH) forbade transactions that involve ambiguity and deception.(Sahih Muslim, Book 10, Hadith 3881)
Explanation: Contracts and agreements must be clear and free from ambiguity to avoid disputes.
18. Seeking Halal Earnings
Seeking halal earnings is an obligation after the obligatory acts of worship.(Sunan al-Bayhaqi, Book 9, Hadith 118)
Explanation: Earning through lawful means is a responsibility of every Muslim, as it purifies one’s wealth.
19. Reward for Earning Lawfully
The best of what a man eats is that which he has earned with his own hands.(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Book 11, Hadith 1213)
Explanation: Working honestly and earning a lawful livelihood brings great reward and blessings.
20. Honoring Contracts
Fulfill your agreements, for agreements will be questioned.(Quran 17:34; Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 41, Hadith 573)
Explanation: Honoring contracts and fulfilling obligations reflect integrity and prevent conflicts.
Conclusion
These Hadiths on Business and Transactions (Mu'amalat) emphasize the importance of honesty, fairness, trust, and transparency in trade and financial dealings. Islam promotes ethical business practices that ensure justice, prevent exploitation, and foster trust within society. By adhering to these teachings, believers can earn Allah’s blessings and contribute to a just economic system. May Allah guide us to engage in fair and honest transactions. Ameen.