An-Nasr Society

Productivity: Hallmark of an Islamic Lifestyle

Religion is not really the best way to describe Islam. "Deen", which means a complete way of life is the more appropriate term. It affects the minutest detail of a person's lifestyle, to the broader matrix of society such as politics, economy, and social justice. It permeates through every aspect of human life because it really is an encompassing guidance for mankind formulated by its Creator. In other words, it is the best way to do everything in any given situation. It doesn't leave any loophole or confusion, for a guidance that comes from Allah (swt) is perfect and comprehensive.

From the perspective of a non-muslim, it might seem strange that the word productivity and religion or Islam are even put under the same light. There's some sort of dichotomy when it comes to these matters, as faith and action are usually viewed as separate and distinct in one's paradigm. But in Islam, they are deeply intertwined. That is because Islamic life is based on two solid foundation - belief and action. Both must go together and remain together to realize their true values. To say that you are a Muslim who believes in Allah and his Messenger but does not act upon it makes you a walking contradiction. To claim that you are a non-practicing Muslim is an oxymoron by itself, for a Muslim by definition is one who submits his will to the will of Allah (swt). It's like saying you are a non-submitter who submits. You are not making a lot of sense. That is exactly why, the proposition that living an Islamic lifestyle is living productively makes perfect sense with that premise in mind. Allow me to argue this proposition in three standpoints - theoretical, practical and historical.

From a theoretical standpoint, we can see that the teachings and principles that surrounds Islam were promulgated with productivity as one of its cornerstones. From Surah Al-Asr for example, Allah (swt) takes an oath by time. Anything that Allah (swt) swears by in the Qur’an is a matter of great importance and should be pondered upon sincerely. Hence, mankind in the Qur'an is made to reflect upon the concept of time as something not to be taken lackadaisically. It injects a sense of urgency in the hearts and minds of the believers to make every moment count and to always be in a state of struggle to benefit oneself and others in this life and the Hereafter.  As narrated by Ibn Abbas (ra), “There are two blessings which many people lose: health and free time.” There are countless more ayahs and hadiths that supports this point but the aforementioned are already sufficient if one takes the time to contemplate deeply.

From a practical standpoint, it is only when one actually lives the life of a Muslim that one could really experience the inner change and revolution that translates into action. When your everyday life and habits are influenced by Islam, you'll start to realize that you have never been so productive in your life. For instance, you'll find in psychology and self-development books that the most important habit in having a productive day is waking up early. Islam has that covered for you by requiring you to wake up at dawn for the fajr salah. Thereby starting your day in tranquility in front of your Creator before facing the hurdles of the day. There is no better boost in energy than that. As for the technique of pomodoro for example, built around the ultradian and circadian rhythm of an individual, Islam has a better application of that concept through the five daily prayers. Taking breaks between your busy schedule to clear your mind of stress and worries and attain serenity in the presence of your Lord creates that balance that your mind, body and spirit needs to get you through the day with remarkable results. Furthermore, the idea of taking a piecemeal approach to work and productivity is best expressed in the hadith narrated by `Aisha (ra), that Allah’s Messenger (saw) said, “Do good deeds properly, sincerely and moderately and know that your deeds alone will not make you enter Paradise (except by Allah’s mercy), and that the most beloved deed to Allah (swt) is the most regular and constant even though it were little.” Pacing yourself and not overburdening your body and mind brings about your optimal performance. Applying these concepts in our daily routines, habits and to-do lists will produce the best results.

From a historical standpoint, we find that it is unprecedented in History how much the Prophet Muhammad (saw) and his Companions (ra) accomplished in such a short period of time. In a short span of 23 years, Muhammad (saw) revolutionized an entire nation from being a people of ignorance, chaos and violence to a nation of dignity, honor and scholarship. In such a short period, he transformed a nation in the decadence of polytheism, tribalism and immorality to an Ummah with pristine character at the highest echelon of moral fiber. That is why, even the west in Michael H. Hart's book "The 100 Most Influential People in History", he regarded Muhammad (saw) as the number one in the list of the top 100 people that made the most impact in history. Umar Ibn Al Khattab (ra), the second caliph of Islam was placed at number 52, which I think is a grave understatement of what Umar (ra) accomplished. To be able to put the two superpowers of that time - the Roman and Persian Empire - to its knees for a period of just 10 years is no trivial feat and definitely deserves a higher spot on that list. Again, this is a reflection of how productive an Islamic lifestyle is. The potential to accomplish is tremendous and the sense of fulfillment is overwhelming. So to my brothers and sisters who wants to realize their full potential and make the best of their time, the most sound advise is - live as a true Muslim. Hence the adage, "Oh Muslim, be Muslim."