Part: 7
Success Through Righteous Intentions
Dr. MAH Azhari
Success in business and management is not merely about financial gains or market dominance; it is deeply tied to the principles and intentions behind actions. The hikma "If the intentions are righteous, the seeker will not be disappointed" highlights a fundamental truth: When businesses and leaders operate with sincere, ethical, and value-driven intentions, success follows in various forms—be it financial stability, brand trust, or long-term sustainability.
In modern business, companies that operate with a genuine mission rather than solely chasing profits tend to build lasting relationships and achieve long-term success. Businesses like Amazon and Apple have thrived because they focus on customer satisfaction and innovation rather than immediate gains. Steve Jobs’ vision for Apple was not just to sell products but to revolutionize technology in a way that enhances people’s lives. This sincerity in purpose led Apple to become a global leader. Similarly, Google has built a strong corporate culture by prioritizing employee well-being, providing flexibility, personal development programs, and fostering innovation. Their success is not just a result of financial strategies but an outcome of their sincere intention to create a positive impact.
Many companies fail because they chase short-term profits without a sincere long-term vision. On the other hand, businesses with genuine commitments to sustainability and ethics have seen remarkable success. Patagonia, for example, operates with the intention of protecting nature. By donating a percentage of its profits to environmental causes and ensuring sustainable production, the company has built strong customer loyalty.
From an Islamic perspective, business is not just a means of earning wealth but a responsibility and a form of service to society. Islam emphasizes the importance of niyyah (intention) in all actions, including trade, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, "Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will be rewarded according to their intention." (Bukhari & Muslim). If a businessman sets his intention not just for personal gain but to support his family, help the needy, and make essential goods easily available to people, his trade becomes an act of virtue. The Prophet ﷺ highlighted this by saying, "The greatest of all wealth spent is what a man spends on his family." (Muslim), emphasizing that providing for one's family is an act of worship. Ethical business practices, such as fairness in pricing, honesty in trade, and ensuring accessibility of goods, are highly rewarded in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ promised an elevated status for those who uphold integrity in business, stating, "The truthful and trustworthy merchant will be with the prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs." (Tirmidhi). Moreover, Allah reminds in the Quran, "And whatever good you send forth for yourselves, you shall find it with Allah. Indeed, Allah is All-Seeing of what you do." (Quran 2:110). Therefore, when business is conducted with sincerity, honesty, and a genuine intention to benefit others, it not only brings financial success but also becomes a means of earning immense rewards in the Hereafter.
A real-world example of this principle is the Emirates airline, which was established with a strong vision of excellence and global service. Unlike many airlines focused solely on revenue, Emirates built its reputation by prioritizing quality service, innovation, and hospitality, reflecting an intention beyond mere profit.
Ultimately, when intentions are sincere and aligned with ethical values, businesses are not only financially successful but also respected and trusted. The principle holds true across both business management and Islamic teachings—righteous intentions lead to meaningful, sustainable success.
In modern business, companies that operate with a genuine mission rather than solely chasing profits tend to build lasting relationships and achieve long-term success. Businesses like Amazon and Apple have thrived because they focus on customer satisfaction and innovation rather than immediate gains. Steve Jobs’ vision for Apple was not just to sell products but to revolutionize technology in a way that enhances people’s lives. This sincerity in purpose led Apple to become a global leader. Similarly, Google has built a strong corporate culture by prioritizing employee well-being, providing flexibility, personal development programs, and fostering innovation. Their success is not just a result of financial strategies but an outcome of their sincere intention to create a positive impact.
Many companies fail because they chase short-term profits without a sincere long-term vision. On the other hand, businesses with genuine commitments to sustainability and ethics have seen remarkable success. Patagonia, for example, operates with the intention of protecting nature. By donating a percentage of its profits to environmental causes and ensuring sustainable production, the company has built strong customer loyalty.
From an Islamic perspective, business is not just a means of earning wealth but a responsibility and a form of service to society. Islam emphasizes the importance of niyyah (intention) in all actions, including trade, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, "Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will be rewarded according to their intention." (Bukhari & Muslim). If a businessman sets his intention not just for personal gain but to support his family, help the needy, and make essential goods easily available to people, his trade becomes an act of virtue. The Prophet ﷺ highlighted this by saying, "The greatest of all wealth spent is what a man spends on his family." (Muslim), emphasizing that providing for one's family is an act of worship. Ethical business practices, such as fairness in pricing, honesty in trade, and ensuring accessibility of goods, are highly rewarded in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ promised an elevated status for those who uphold integrity in business, stating, "The truthful and trustworthy merchant will be with the prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs." (Tirmidhi). Moreover, Allah reminds in the Quran, "And whatever good you send forth for yourselves, you shall find it with Allah. Indeed, Allah is All-Seeing of what you do." (Quran 2:110). Therefore, when business is conducted with sincerity, honesty, and a genuine intention to benefit others, it not only brings financial success but also becomes a means of earning immense rewards in the Hereafter.
A real-world example of this principle is the Emirates airline, which was established with a strong vision of excellence and global service. Unlike many airlines focused solely on revenue, Emirates built its reputation by prioritizing quality service, innovation, and hospitality, reflecting an intention beyond mere profit.
Ultimately, when intentions are sincere and aligned with ethical values, businesses are not only financially successful but also respected and trusted. The principle holds true across both business management and Islamic teachings—righteous intentions lead to meaningful, sustainable success.