The Economic System of Islam — Page 44
44 1. To meet his own legitimate needs; 2. Beyond meeting the personal needs, he might desire money with a view to helping mankind and earning God’s pleasure; or 3. He might seek money to fulfil vain desires described above i. e. , personal pleasure, self-indulgence, pride or plain greed. It goes without saying that only persons driven by the third impulse would stoop to unfair and foul means, and would exploit others. This situation would be avoided if the first two reasons for earning money were dominant. Anyone who earns just enough to satisfy his own needs or who spends the excess wealth for helping others and other good deeds would not hurt other Individuals or his nation in general. Improper Use of Wealth Forbidden I proceed now to elaborate on how Islam forbids the improper use of wealth. In regard to the true Muslims, the Holy Quran says: 19 That is: Muslims are those who stay away from frivolous acts. They stay away from pursuits or activities that are of little benefit, such as, playing chess, cards or other games wasteful of time. Islam 19 S u rah al-Mu’min u n , 23:4, (publishers)