The Real Halal Hustle

“The last of it is musk. So for this let the competitors compete.” – Qu’ran 83:26

In the streets, they “Hustle + Muscle = Success”. Often times, it’s lines like this entrepreneurs can relate to when starting out any venture. Taking an idea and growing it to become a reality isn’t easy. It’s a constant struggle when you have limited resources and you have to be prepared to face any challenges. On top of that, most folks around you will write you off rather quickly. If you don’t become rich in a couple of months, all the negative sentiment and feedback will come rolling down at you like an avalanche.

For any of you who have done it or are currently considering starting your own, you probably understand what I’m saying. Anything you start from scratch which you hope to insha’Allah grow requires time, energy, and dedication. Whichever market you’re in, you’re going to have competitors. Understanding this, most companies try to secure some sort of competitive advantage.

However, when we speak about competition it’s usually in the context of sports or business. But I wanted to shift away and focus on an area in where we may not be cognitive of for healthy competition. And that’s competing against one another for good deeds and piety.

I’m not encouraging bragging of good deeds or a display of arrogance based on individual accomplishments. Some people argue that there is a thin line between confidence and arrogance, but a sound intention followed by the good deed works wonders. There’s no doubt shaytan likes to gas people up should they start doing some good. Knowing this, it’s important as believers we don’t get puffed up. With Allah swt all things are possible, at the same token, without Allah swt, nothing is possible.

The Sahaba’s (may Allah swt be pleased with them) often competed with each other in different ways.

Once the Prophet, asked them to give in charity, ‘Umar (RA) remarked, “At that time I had some money. I said, ‘Today I shall surpass Abu Bakr, if I am to ever surpass him on any day.’ I therefore brought half of my wealth. The Messenger of Allah asked: ‘What have you left for your family?’ I replied, ‘The same amount.’ Abu Bakr brought all that he had with him. The Messenger of Allah asked him: ‘What have you left for your family? ’He replied, ‘I have left Allah and His Messenger for them.

It’s important to know that there was no rivalry created out of this, Umar and Abu Bakr (RA) were essentially giving their money for the same purpose. When opportunities for good deeds arise, we should rush towards them. It only helps when you are surrounded with like minded individuals, this create an culture of healthy competition and actually nurtures brotherhood.

Allah (swt) is constantly opening doors, especially when we are exposed to seeing people who are less fortunate or going through tribulations, as much as it is a test for them, it’s certainly a test for us as well. Our level of responsiveness or negligence can really mean a lot in the hereafter.

I hope this made sense. I wanted to end a quote from Malik ibn Dinar (R) who said:

“Start a business worshiping Allah, and all types of profits will come to you without needing any capital.”

In conclusion, let’s strive to get on the real halal hustle so we can chill in Jannah with those who competed before in goodness.

May Allah (swt) purify our hearts and give us the ability to compete for good deeds without compromising our intentions, Ameen! Please keep me in your dua’s right now.

Until next time, Wa’salaam.