The Contribution of Islam to the Solution of World Problems — Page 20
20 Economic Values In the economic sphere Islam recognises and safeguards the institution of private property, but makes all legal ownership subject to stringent moral obligations. It teaches that all ultimate sources of wealth, namely, the earth and all its treasures and ca pacities, the sun, the moon, the stars, the clouds that bring rain etc, are the bounty of God, which he has provided for the benefit of his creatures. Allah it is Who has subjected the sea to you that ships may sail thereon by His command, and that you may seek of His bounty and that you may be grateful. And He has subjected to you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth; all this is from Him. In that, surely, are signs for a people who reflect. ( Ch 45: Vs. 13 - 14 ) Again, Allah is He Who created the heavens and the earth and caused water to come down from the clouds and brought forth therewith fruits for your sustenance; and He has subjected to you the ships that they may sail through the sea by His command, and the rivers too has He subjected to You. And He has also subjected to you the sun and the moon, both performing their work constantly. And He has subjected to you the night as well as the day.