Fundamental Islamic perspective of work ethics

Abstract

Purpose – This paper debates the Islamic perspective on the work ethics employed in an organization. It aims to discuss the issues of assumptions involving the Islamic Work Ethic (IWE). Therefore, this paper addresses the gap in the management literature and suggests a group of dimensions from fundamentals of Islam. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reviews the foundations of IWE and investigates various empirical studies conducted in several countries. Then, briefly presents a short historical and conceptual review of the work ethic construct, suggests a general conceptual definition of work ethic, and offers multidimensional model including a series of constructs which can enable researchers to evaluate and measure work ethic in Islamic societies. Findings – The study reveals that there is an evidence of ethics formulation depending on Islamic literature which constructs Islamic values for work. This paper proposes new perspective about the right ethics of work in Islam. Further, multidimensional model including 18 dimensions has been developed to evaluate work ethic in Islamic societies. Research limitations/implications – This field needs to reconsider the constructs of IWEs where it is far from reflecting Islamic theory. This paper presents new dimensions which can be utilized to enrich this area. Originality/value – This is one of the few attempts to suggest the appropriate constructs of IWE in the management literature. It provides 18 elements responsible and have the promise to strengthen individual transparency and morally which eventually enhance economic progress in Islamic world.

The Impact of Challenge and Hindrance Stressors on Job Satisfaction: Moderating Role of Islamic Work Ethics

“…Islam highly emphasizes hard work and discourages laziness at the workplace (Abeng, 1997) because work is considered as an asset of any individual and is the requirement for upholding stability in his/her personal as well as social life (Ahmad, 1976). In Islam, practicing IWE can directly affect the job satisfaction and performance of employees because it develops confidence and satisfaction which place the organizational needs higher than individuals' needs and lead towards feelings of peace and satisfaction in work settings (Aldulaimi, 2016). IWE is a vital element of Islamic system; hence, individuals having high IWE will experience a high level of job satisfaction in organizations (Ahmad, 2011;Ali, 1987;Khan et al, 2015).…”

“…Principles of IWE have an emphasis on relationships between human beings and their Creator (Allah). They also provide guidelines to the organizations which ultimately improve administrative functions leading to success and quality (Aldulaimi, 2016).…”

“…Qur'ān discusses the value of ethics several times; for example, Qur'ān says "You are the best nation produced (as an example) for mankind; you order what is right, forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah" (Qur'ān 3:110); "And whatever good you do, (be sure) Allah knows it" (Qur'ān 2:197). Moreover, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) preached that hard work pardons the sins and better food for a person is what he eats out of his work (Aldulaimi, 2016).…”

The Effect of Religiosity and Perception on Academic Cheating among Muslim Students in Indonesia

“…Cheating is mostly associated with younger generation in academic life at any level of education. The unacceptable conducts is condemned by Islamic teaching (Mustapha, Hussin, Siraj, & Darusalam, 2016) and is highly contrary to fundamental Islamic teachings, which guide its followers to be honest in their lives (Aldulaimi, 2016). It is expected that each Muslim avoid cheating (especially for those who are studying at any level of education).…”

Islamic Work Ethic and Satisfaction With Intrinsic Motivation as Mediator Variable

“…Conversely, if employees pay less attention to the value of work ethic of Islam then job satisfaction will be difficult to obtain (Hayati, 2012). Aldulaimi (2016) states that by practicing Islamic working ethic, it will lead to better work performance, such as improving the confidence and satisfaction level, placing organizational needs greater than individual needs, and experiencing the feeling of peace and tranquility at the workplace. Therefore, it is important to instill Islamic working ethic in organizational practices in any country.…”