In Islam, the importance of family is paramount, encompassing not only emotional and spiritual dimensions but also extending to economic well-being. The Islamic perspective on family ties emphasizes how fostering strong relationships among relatives can lead to numerous economic benefits. This article delves into the economic advantages of family ties from an Islamic standpoint, incorporating a Hadith and an Islamic story that underscore the significance of these ties.
Economic Stability Through Mutual Support:
Islamic teachings encourage mutual support within families as a means to achieve economic stability. This practice of providing financial assistance to relatives during times of need helps alleviate financial burdens and promotes a more resilient and self-sufficient community. By extending help to family members, the larger community is better equipped to overcome economic challenges collectively.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The one who severs the bond of kinship will not enter Paradise." (Sahih al-Bukhari) This Hadith highlights the gravity of maintaining family ties and the eternal reward for doing so, which can motivate individuals to contribute economically to their family members' welfare.
This is most crucial time we find ourselves in Nigeria today. I see an opportunity to "Market" Islam to the non Muslims around us if we uphold this very important value of Islam. When was the last time you heard from your parents or your siblings, do you hear from ALL your siblings or just those that are nice to you, those who call alone and those you can benefit from???
EVERY MEMBER OF THE FAMILY MATTERS! Considering the hadith above, we are duty bound as Muslims to always look out for one another. If you are well to do, you should make it a point of duty to check on those that are not that fortune in the family. DO NOT wait for them to ask before you give. You should actually be the one making the offer! Some are going through tough times but will NEVER ask you for help. However, if you give them a hand, they would gladly take it. Present yourself as a tool of good to them from Allah and stop making excuses for not helping them! Why? Because, this is a very effective way to keep the family ties!
The Story of Abdullah ibn Umar
Abdullah ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) was known for his strong commitment to upholding family ties. Once, he was advised by a wealthy man to consider severing his relationship with a financially struggling relative. Abdullah ibn Umar firmly refused, stating that he had heard the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) saying, "O Allah, join together those who are joined through you, and break apart those who are severed through you." (Musnad Ahmad) This story exemplifies the economic benefits that arise from maintaining family ties, regardless of financial disparities.
Collective Investment and Entrepreneurship:
Islam encourages families to collaborate in economic ventures, as joint efforts can lead to increased economic growth and stability. Whether engaging in business partnerships or agricultural projects, working together allows families to pool resources, mitigate risks, and maximize profits while also fostering closer relationships.
This is particularly very important in these days of living without fuel subsidy. Every family has a land and this land is most often than not very large. Some unfortunately split and sell these inheritance while others see it as a unifying force that keeps them together. If everyone meets in a whatsapp group for instance to discuss investing in the Cultivation of the land, they would be going a long way in shielding themselves from economic hardship that comes with fuel subsidy. The Proceeds from the farm can either be sold or shared amongst the family members. If the farm is a cash crop farm...a palm tree plantation or cocoa farm for instance. A small cottage factory can be erected on the farm to add value to the raw farm produce thereby increasing the profits from the venture. When this is done and proceeds are shared annually, this issue of fuel subsidy removal won't affect such a family that much. The Bottom line, we are better off together than otherwise!
The Quranic Says "And those who hoard up gold and silver and do not spend it in the way of Allah, then give them the tidings of a painful punishment." (Quran, 9:34) This verse emphasizes the importance of using wealth for benevolent purposes, which includes supporting family members and contributing to their economic well-being.
The Story of Hanzalah and His Brother
Hanzalah (may Allah be pleased with him) once sought advice from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regarding his wealth, as he was torn between providing for his family and dedicating more time to worship. The Prophet (peace be upon him) advised him to strike a balance, stating that providing for his family is an act of worship. This story highlights how economic responsibilities toward one's family are intertwined with religious devotion and overall well-being.
From the Above story, it's clear that investments made to develop and foster stronger family ties is an act of worship! It also hints on always investing generously when called to do so in the family. Do NOT compare yourself with other less privilged members of the family. Do not look at your investments in terms of its quantity but, rather, in terms of the percentage you are contributing. For instance, when a member of the family who's a salary earner donates N250 000 and his take home is not more than N50 000/month, you should know that he's contributed far much more than you who is a multimillionaire that's donating a miserly N300 000 for the same cause!
A friend of mine once told me of one of his friends back in school who upon graduation was asked to decide whether he intends to live in Nigeria or abroad and exactly which sector of the economy he wishes to work at. Please, note that he was asked to choose while my friend was left to fend for himself! If you look critically at the secretion, you'll find that despite the economic hardship that's prevalent in Nigeria, one person gets to CHOOSE while the other is left at the mercy of sheer luck! The main difference between these two friends is that one is from a well organised family with STRONG FAMILY TIES while the other is from...well, a disorganized family where members are greed and do not value family ties. Unfortunately, this is how most families are in Nigeria today! That must change if we must live life to the fullest!
The Islamic perspective on family ties extends beyond emotional bonds, emphasizing the economic benefits that arise from maintaining strong relationships with relatives. From offering mutual support during financial hardships to engaging in collective economic ventures, Islam advocates for unity within families as a means to achieve stability, resilience, and prosperity. By adhering to these principles, Muslims can contribute to both their family's economic well-being and the broader economic strength of their community.
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