The Seven Pillars of Islamic Business Ethics

Pillar 1: Sidq (Truthfulness) “Truthfulness leads to righteousness and righteousness leads to Paradise.” — Prophet ﷺ

• Always be honest about your product
• Never exaggerate quality or benefits
• Disclose any defects before selling

Pillar 2: Amanah (Trustworthiness) “Give the trust back to those who entrusted you.” — Quran 4:58

• Deliver what you promise
• Meet your deadlines
• Handle customers’ money honestly

Pillar 3: Adalah (Justice)

• Price fairly — do not exploit
• Pay your workers fairly and on time
• Give full measure and weight

Pillar 4: Ihsan (Excellence) “Allah loves that when any of you does a deed, he does it with excellence.” — Prophet ﷺ

• Give your best quality always
• Go beyond customer expectations
• Continuous improvement

Pillar 5: Tawadu (Humility)

• Do not be arrogant in success
• Thank Allah for your rizq (sustenance)
• Stay grounded and community-focused

Pillar 6: Rahma (Mercy/Compassion) “May Allah have mercy on a person who is easy when he sells, easy when he buys, and easy when he demands his right.” — Prophet ﷺ

• Be flexible with customers in difficulty
• Give grace periods for payment
• Handle complaints with compassion

Pillar 7: Shura (Consultation)

• Seek advice from knowledgeable people
• Consult family members affected by your business
• Build a support network of fellow entrepreneurs