Success is a commonplace desire that is concurrently pursued by individuals from different cultures and belief systems. The achievement of success in the Islamic world is not easy and is directly related to the principles of perseverance and hard work. It is the right way to practice Islam in everyday life as a spiritual person. To make the discussion clearer, we can understand that these instruments of driving success are one of the elements of those involved in the training of both professional hardworking sportsmen and religious faithful. We’ll try here to show how the deeply rooted attributes of dedication and work ethic, influenced by Islamic norms, may bring about real success.
The Quranic Outlook on Success
Success in Islam, especially in Akhirah, is not simply about making money or rising in status. "Falah," which means success includes metaphysical objectives alongside the physical ones, is the ultimate success. The Quran and the Hadith Making Achievements in Life Calls for an Integrated Approach that Combination Faith and Good Works with Effort. In this regard, the Quran says, "And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways… And surely Allah is with those who do good" (Quran 29:69). This verse emphasizes the need to strive and work in the way of Allah so that one can be able to succeed in whatever course one undertakes.
Diligence and Dedication in Islamic Beliefs
- An Example from the Prophet Seerah (Biography): The life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) shows boundless dedication and hard work. He faced great challenges and opposition in fulfilling the mission of conveying the message of Islam; however, he still fought hard. There were many travels, struggles, and attempts to establish order during his time, which showed his unyielding obedience to the cause. The story of the Prophet (PBUH) teaches every Muslim that any achievement cannot be reached without a great deal of effort.
- The Concept of Niyyah (Intention): All people act for a purpose. It is the intention that is more important for an action. Thus, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated ‘If one of you employs someone, then let him make his intention as to whether the work is for Allah, the Almighty. What I really am saying is actions, MAN. This Hadith explains that every good work must be accompanied by a particular aspect of hard work. Muslims when working, are happy to please Allah and benefit people who are granted these works, and success in the true sense comes in.
3- Perseverance and Patience (Sabr): The Quran stresses the need for patience and constancy. Allah says, " Believers, be steadfast, and vie in steadfastness, stand firm in your faith, and hold Allah in fear that you may attain true success. " (Quran 3:200). This verse urges us to be resolute in our efforts and remain true to our commitments, even when uphill. Patience and perseverance are both basic attributes of commitment, allowing us to overcome hurdles on the way and achieve our goals.
4- Diligence and Effort (Jihad): The concept of "jihad" in Islam is often misunderstood. Even if it means fighting with weapons. But the broader meaning also includes effort and effort in the path of Allah. It includes personal struggles to acquire knowledge, do good, and work hard in one's career. The Quran says, “And there is nothing for a man except the good for which he strives.” (Qur'an 53:39) This verse emphasizes that a person will receive only that which emphasizes the importance of striving to achieve success.
Practical lessons from Islamic teachings
- Balancing temporal and spiritual goals: Islamic teachings encourage a balanced approach to life. Where each person strives for worldly success and spiritual fulfillment. Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge. excellence in one's profession and contribute positively to society. The same goes for their faith…maintain and fulfill their religious obligations. This holistic approach guarantees success and sustainability.
2- Yearning for Growth: Islam instills the spirit of continuous self-improvement and acquiring knowledge throughout one’s life. Such is the case in this saying of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which states, “Everyone must acquire knowledge, even if he has to go as far as China.” (Sunan ibn Majah) This teaching further reinforces the notion of self-advancement daily. Expanding self or developing skills, while knowledge per se, is the more empirical approach to self-improvement, which causes the upsurge of determination to endure difficulties and achieve success.
3- The significance of community and cooperation is stressed in the teachings of Islam. As stated by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), “The believers are like one body, with regards to one another; they exhibit love, mercy, and compassion for one another” (Sahih Muslim). The act of socializing, comforting, and assisting each other is important to achieve any goals or objectives. Muslims are always told to assist people with active and passive means, share useful information and the skills they possess, and engage in activities that are uplifting to society.
4- Tawakkul (Trust in Allah): Achieving any purpose requires a lot of effort and sacrifice but the Islamic teachings counter these notions by emphasizing the need for faith in Allah’s will. It has been encouraged to put in the best effort and leave the rest to Allah. Indeed, this is avowed in the Quran (65:3) which states: ‘and he who puts his trust in Allah, then he will surely suffice him’. In such a case, Proper Trust in Allah (SWT) helps promote one’s inner calm and self-percussion since those who hold this trust believe all their work is done for Allah and left in His hands.
One of the aspects that is very much emphasized in Islam is the greatness of attaining success through hard work and focus. Many stories and examples are told in the Quran and Hadith to help Muslims achieve the various goals that they seek. It is through practicing the principles followed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) combined with pure intentions, patience, and consistent effort that Muslims can earn and enjoy real success; success that is cut across both the physical and the spiritual domains. Ultimately, in Islam, to be successful means to seek the pleasure of Allah, to be of help to other people, and to live life in moderation and with a purpose.
Source:
(1) The Fruits of Hard Work - Dawat-e-Islami. https://www.dawateislami.net/magazine/en/bright-teachings-of-islam/how-to-work-hard.
(2) 5 Keys for Developing Islamic Habits of Success - About Islam. https://aboutislam.net/reading-islam/living-islam/5-keys-for-developing-islamic-habits-of-success/.
(3) Diligence is the Way to Success - إسلام ويب. https://islamweb.net/en/article/181393/diligence-is-the-way-to-success.
(4) Effort and Success | Islamic Teachings Book 2 | Al-Islam.org. https://www.al-islam.org/islamic-teachings-book-2/effort-and-success.
(5) What is the meaning of true success in Islam? And how we can achieve it? https://www.dawateislami.net/magazine/en/commentary-of-quran/true-success.
