The Economic System of Islam — Page 125
125 1. In accordance with the Islamic teaching, the rights of the poor should be safeguarded; and 2. The hopes and aspirations of people should be fostered. In Germany and Italy, people were not distributed money, but their aspirations were nurtured. As a consequence, they started viewing themselves as victorious and triumphant. Hope and aspirations are vital for national progress. A nation, where people no longer have aspirations or where its poor are denied basic rights, is inevitably destined to its ruin. Responsibilities of Rich Towards Poor The wealthy people in our country should realise their responsibili- ties before it is too late and should hasten to discharge the obliga- tions they owe to poorer people. As I look at it, the emergence of Communism is a punishment against the tyrannies perpetrated by the rich upon the poor. There is still time for improvement and to atone for excesses of the past. If wealthier people are unwilling to discharge their duties towards their less fortunate brethren, the hand of God Almighty will snatch away their wealth through this instrument [of Commu- nism]. Repentance and appropriate action now can save you from this terrible danger and the awful storm gathering over your heads will move away to leave you in safety just as a tornado suddenly changes its course. You can either voluntarily part with a portion of your wealth for the uplift of the poor, as called upon by God; or