The Economic System of Islam — Page 52
52 spend millions on the upkeep of race horses and gambling. How- ever, according to Islamic teachings, a Muslim may keep a horse for riding, but not for racing. Because Islam rejects all such motives, it also eliminates the need to accumulate excessive wealth. The urge to make more and more money comes about when one tries to emulate others who have enriched themselves or who spend huge amounts on extrava- gances such as horse racing, or when one seeks to accumulate wealth for their own sake. Since Islam demands of us that we curb all such temptations, the urge to earn beyond a reasonable amount dies away. Further Steps to Control Those of Weaker Nature The teachings that I have expounded above are by way of exhorta- tions. However, mere sermon or admonition may not stop people with weaker dispositions from accumulating wealth beyond pre- scribed limits. Thus, the Islamic shariah—whose implementation is the government’s responsibility—contains specific provisions against wealth accumulation beyond its proper limits. These provi- sions are listed below.