FROM THE EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

In engaging in industrial production and the manufacture of goods, the benefit of mankind and the environment in general must be given high priority. Whatever is harmful, or is intended for a harmful purpose, should not be manufactured or produced. Whatever is harmful to the beliefs, good morals and life style of a society should likewise not be produced. TRADE The Quran and the Hadith of the Prophet, urge Muslims to engage in trade and commerce, and to undertake journeys for what the Quran refers to as “seeking the bounty of God”. All trade in Islam is allowed unless it involves injustice, cheating, making exorbitant profits, or the promotion or selling of something which is haram. It is haram to do business in alcoholic drinks, intoxicants, harmful drugs, or anything the consumption and use of which, Islam has prohibited. One should not promote such products which are haram. Professions involving the use or propagation of harmful knowledge are also not allowed. The Prophet, said: 'When God prohibits a thing, He prohibits (giving and receiving) the price as well.' Any healthy community or society needs a variety of professions to meet its needs. Professions relating to man’s basic needs—food, clothing, shelter, health care, education, and defence. It is the basic teaching of Islam that in choosing one’s profession one should be driven by what is essential for the humankind and not by what gives the individual huge profits. All the commandments of God, the teachings of the Prophet point towards the fact that one should involve oneself only in those economic activities which are totally beneficial to humankind and shun even the smallest economic activity which is harmful to humankind. There is huge accountability regarding this aspect. o Dr. Farida Khanam hub@thespiritofislam.org