ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR FROM ISLAMIC AND INDIGENOUS

PRESPECTIVE
Religion has a great and direct impact on human behavior, social interactions, and social
relations. By nature, humans have many questions in their minds that require logical and clear
answers, and the Qur'an provides such answers (AlSheha.2000). In fact religion exerts significant
influence on the political and educational system of any society (Abuznaid, 2006). Sunnah
“Hadith” contains details of the teachings of the Messenger of Islam. Prophet Mohammad
“PBUH” who is the last of all messengers, No messenger will come after him. According to the
Qur’an: “Muhammad is not the father of any man among you, but he is the Messenger of Allah
and the last of the Prophets” (AlAhzab33:40). Islam is an Arabic word connoting peace,
submission, surrender, and obedience to Allah (Abuznaid, 2006). Islam is a religion of peace,
tolerance, kindness, moderateness, ease, and seeks the well-being of all people. It is a religion
which enjoins moderateness, both in religious and worldly matters (Al-Sheha, 2000, pp.48-53).
Allah says: “Thus we have made you, Muslims, a just and balanced nation, that you be witnesses
over mankind, and the Messenger Muhammad be a witness over you (Al-Baqarah2:143). Islam
is a religion of ease.

The Prophet said: “Allah did not send me to make things difficult, obstinate and inflexible;
rather, he sent me as a teacher and to make things easy.” Islamic teachings urge Muslims to try to
make things easy whenever possible (Al-Sheha, 2000, p.49). Islam, like other divine religions,
advocates several precepts and beliefs which Allah has required its followers to believe in and
propagate, but coercion is not a valid means to achieve this end. Allah says: “There is no
compulsion in religion. Verily, the Right (Path of) Guidance has become distinct from the wrong
path” (Al_Baqarah2:256). Islam was not revealed for a specific race or class. There is no
segregation based upon color, language, location, and lineage; rather, it is based upon specific
beliefs which all people share, keeping them united. Whoever believes in Allah as the One and
only true Lord, and that Muhammad is the last messenger, he/she is regarded as a Muslim,
irrespective of race, color or ethnicity. Allah says: “(O Prophet), We have not sent you forth but
as a herald of good news and a warner for all mankind. But most people do not know”
(Saba’34:28]. Regardless of location Islam is built on five pillars: the testimony of faith, prayer,
Alms- giving, fasting the month of Ramadan and conducting hajj to Mecca once in a life time for
those who are able to do so. The Quran never gives us suggestions but commanded us to perform
the commands of Allah. It is a well-known fact that not all Muslims are Arabs, and not all Arabs
are Muslims. Islam is a way of life. Islamic Society and State are built on such ideological,
moral, cultural economic and legal principles (Wilson, 2006).

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A true Muslim implements the commandments of the Qur’an and Sunnah in his daily life. A true
Muslim is not he who chooses from Islam what suits him and then leaves all else aside (Al-
Sheha, 2000, p.9). As a religion Islam provides the framework that shapes the moral and ethical
behavior of Muslims around the globe. The Qur’an is very clear about the importance of high
morals by saying to the Prophet “Wa-innaka laala khuluqin Atheem” which means “And indeed,
you are of a great moral character”. And said “You are and you are certainly on the most exalted
standard of moral excellence” (Al-Qalam68:4). Fortunately, in Islam the question of whether an
act is considered a virtue or a vice is determined in the Qur’an and Sunnah, literary meaning the
following” the sayings of the Prophet which is mostly derived from his sayings and actions.
Prophet Mohammed summarized the conduct of a Muslim by saying: “My Sustainer has given
me nine commands: to remain conscious of God, whether in private or in public; to speak justly,
whether angry or pleased; to show moderation both when poor and when rich, to renew
friendship with those who have broken off with me; to give to him who refuses me; that my
silence should be occupied with thought; that my looking should be an admonition; and that I
should command what is right”. It is always unfortunate to view Islam as a backward religion
and as an impediment to social and economic progress. It is so unfortunate to say that the
underdevelopment of many Muslim economies is often ascribed to Islam. Islam is far from being
antagonistic to prosperity and growth.

COMMUNICATION
We communicate every moment we say or do something. Effective communication benefits
senders and receivers. Poor communication causes harm to individuals, organizations and
community at large, depending on the nature of message. Islam forbids a Muslim from insulting
others’ beliefs or religion. Allah says: “And insult not those whom they (the disbelievers)
worship besides Allah, lest they insult Allah wrongfully without knowledge”(Al-Ana’m6:108).
Rather, Islam commands one to discuss and argue with the disbelievers in a good, wise, and kind
manner. Allah says: “Invite to the path of your Lord with wisdom and fair preaching, and argue
with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His
Path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided”(AlNahl16:125).

With regard to communication whether verbal or nonverbal, Islam instructs Muslims to always
respect parents and the elders regardless of their faith, as for parents the Quran says: “Your Lord
has enjoined the following: You should not worship anyone but Him. Treat your parents with
great consideration; if either or both of them live with you in their old age, do not say even "fie"
to them: nor rebuke them, but speak kind words to them; treat them with humility and tenderness
and pray: "Lord, be merciful to them just as they brought me up with kindness and affection"
(AlIsra’17:23-24). To show the degree of importance of respect for parents, a Muslim can
interrupt his prayer, although a Pillar of Islam, to provide emergency aid or support for parents
when they ask for it.

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Muslims should always avoid lies, back biting, treat everyone with great respect and manners,
should not mock, show arrogance and show disgust with parents and should follow parents
orders, should not extend his feet in the face of others, respect the elders and offer help when
possible even though going out of the way on a job, and when hearing the name prophet
Mohammad one should say “Sallah Allaho Alihi Wa Sallam”.

ETIQUETTES OF DEALING WITH OTHERS

We are created as males and females and as peoples and tribes. The Qur’an is explicit on that.
Allah says: “Human beings, we created you all from a male and a female, and made you into
nations and tribes so that you may know one another. Verily the noblest of you in the sight of
Allah is the most God-fearing of you. Surely Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware (Al-
Hujurat49:13).

Allah stresses that the only basis of superiority and excellence that there is, or can be, between
man and man is that of moral excellence. The real thing that makes one person superior to others
is that one should be more God conscious, The Qur’an stressed: “O men! Fear your Lord Who
created you from a single being and out of it created its mate; and out of the two spread many
men and women. Fear Allah in whose name you plead for rights, and heed the ties of kinship.
Surely, Allah is ever watchful over you” (Al- Nisa’4:1).Islam orders Muslims not to be sarcastic
and not to mock others. Allah admonishes Muslims by saying: “Believers, let not a group (of
men) scoff at another group, it may well be that the latter (at whom they scoff) are better than
they; nor let a group of women scoff at another group, it may well be that the latter are better
than they. And do not taunt one another, nor revile one another by nicknames. It is an evil thing
to gain notoriety for ungodliness after belief. Those who do not repent are indeed the wrong-
doers” (Al- Hujurat 49: 11).

This command requires that a person should not be called by a name other than his name or a
title which may cause him humiliation, e.g. calling somebody a sinner or a hypocrite, or calling
someone a lame or blind one, or one-eyed, or giving him a nickname containing a reference to
some defect or blemish in him, or in his parents, or in his family, or calling a person a Jew or a
Christian even after his conversion to Islam, or giving such a nickname to a person, or a family,
or a community, or a group, which may bring condemnation or disgrace on it. Muslims should
avoid bad assumptions about others. Bad assumptions could be sin. The Qur’an says: “O you,
who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do
not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead?
You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is accepting of repentance and Merciful” (Al-
Hujurat 49:12). Treatment of orphans has been defined in the Qur’an. Allah has ordered Muslims
by saying “So as for the orphan, do not oppress him. And as for the petitioner, do not repel him”
(AL-Duha 93:9-11).

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The plight of the poor should not be ignored (Wilson, 2006), and the Qur’an stresses the virtue of
altruism by saying: “And those in whose wealth there is a known right for those that ask and
those that are dispossessed, those who firmly believe in the Day of Recompense” (Al-Ma’arij
70:24-26). Provision for the poor and needy comes through Almsgiving; self assessed tax on
wealth whose proceeds are earmarked for social expenditures (Wilson, 2006). How about
joking? Problems and pressure sometimes lead to depression and alienation. Therefore joking
sometimes is necessary. There are two types of jokes in Islam: Acceptable jokes, unacceptable
and forbidden jokes.

 Acceptable jokes .They are jokes that don’t aggravate Allah or lead to animosity. Those who
make acceptable jokes intend to please others and make them happier. To do that, one should be
very careful in choosing his words.

Prophet Mohammad used to joke and make fun sometimes. In one instance, an old woman came
to him and said: O Messenger of Allah, pray to Allah for me to be admitted into Paradise .He
said: No old woman will be admitted into paradise. On hearing this she went away crying. He
said: tell her that she won’t be an old woman when she goes into Paradise. Allah says:“Lo! We
have created them a (new) creation and made them virgins, lovers, friends (Al-Qamar 54:35-
37).This implies the women of the world; whether they died virgins or married, and their spouses
we shall have brought them into being afresh, and shall have made them virgins, (Al-Waqi’ah
56: 35, 36).This signifies the virtuous women of the world, who will enter Paradise on the basis
of their faith and good works. Allah will make them young no matter how aged they might have
died in the world; will make them beautiful whether or not they were beautiful in the world; and
will make them virgins whether they died virgins in the world or after bearing children. If their
husbands also entered Paradise with them, they would be joined with them; otherwise. Allah will
wed them to another dweller in Paradise.

 Unacceptable and forbidden jokes .They are in the form of lies and can be degrading. They
can cause harm to others for the purpose of making others laugh. The purpose of unacceptable
jokes is to belittle people and demean them. Jokes are the ropes of evil. In old days they used to
say jokes are the fruits of evil. Jokes may lead to bloodshed and disaster in Arab cultures.
Therefore, Muslims are accountable for their deeds and sayings. Regardless of the kind of a joke,
the Prophet warns against joking extensively by saying in Hadith: “Joking too much makes you
lose dignity, status and respect”.

How about spying ‘tajassus’? Scholars have differentiated between ‘tahassus’, which means
snooping’ and listening to other people’s conversations, and ‘tajassus’, which means spying,
seeking out other people’s faults. The Quran says: “Believers, avoid being excessively
suspicious, for some suspicion is a sin. Do not spy, nor backbite one another. Would any of you
like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? (Al- Hujurat: 49:12)

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Islam prohibits spying. Islam instructs Muslims not to spy by saying "Do not spy': Do not seek
out information about their secrets, do not search for their defects and weaknesses: do not pry
into their conditions and affairs. Whether this is done because of suspicion, or for causing harm
to somebody with an evil intention, or for satisfying one's own curiosity, it is forbidden by the
Shariah in every case. This also includes reading other people's private letters, listening secretly
to private conversation, peeping into the neighbor’s house, and trying to get information in
different ways about the domestic life or private affairs of others.

In another Hadith, the Prophet said: "Any one to see a secret affair of somebody and then
conceal it he acts as though he saved a girl who had been buried alive." How about back-biting
“Ghibat”? In Islam backbiting has been defined as saying behind the back of a person something
which would hurt him if he came to know of it. "The Holy Prophet defined “Ghibat” as talking
of your brother in a way irksome to him." It was asked: "What, if the defect being talked of is
present in my brother? The Prophet replied: "If it is present in him, it would be “Ghiba”t; if it is
not, it would be slandering him.” These traditions make it plain that uttering a false accusation
against a person in his absence is calumny and describing a real defect in him “Ghibat”; whether
this is done in expressing some words or by reference and allusion, in every case it is forbidden.

Likewise, whether this is done in the lifetime of a person, or after his death, it is forbidden in
both cases. Allah has likened backbiting to eating the dead brother's flesh has labeled it as an
abomination. The Quran says: “O you who believe! Avoid much suspicion; indeed some
suspicion is sin. And spy not, neither backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh
of his dead brother? You would hate it. And have Taqwa of Allah. Verily, Allah is the One Who
forgives and accepts repentance, Most Merciful” (Al-Hujurat 49:12). Ghibat also leads to
backbiting which is unlawful “Haram”. Allah has closed every door that leads to the evil of
backbiting and has made spying Haram

However, Muslim scholars have declared that “Ghibat” is permissible in the following cases:

1- Complaining by an oppressed person against the oppressor before every such person who
he thinks can do something to save him from the injustice.
2- To make mention of the evils of a person (or persons) with the intention of reform before
those who can be expected to help remove the evils.
3- To state the facts of a case before a legal expert for the purpose of seeking a religious or
legal ruling regarding an unlawful act committed by a person.
4- To warn the people of the mischief’s of a person (or persons) so that they may ward off
the evil.
5- To raise ' voice against and criticize the evils of the people who may be spreading sin and
immorality and error, or corrupting the people's faith and persecuting them.
6- To use nicknames for the people who may have become well known by those names, but
this should be done for the purpose of their recognition and not with a view to condemn
them.

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In Islam, relationships should always have a positive outcome. One should not make fun of and
ridicule another, for under such ridiculing there always lie feelings of one's own superiority and
the other's abasement and contempt, which are morally unworthy of a gentleman. When in the
company of others Muslims should say what’s good or refrain from saying anything. Muslims
should also have the moral sense and courage to stop others from backbiting for even if we don’t
contribute to it, we become guilty of the sin by being silent listeners and participants. The best
means to avoid it is by changing the topic or saying sensibly that we don’t really know the whole
truth of the matter so that we shouldn’t be unfair to anyone.

A person should not be called by a name or a title which may cause him humiliation. Only the
following nicknames have been made an exception from this Command, which though
apparently offensive, are not intended to condemn the persons concerned, but they rather serve as
a mark of recognition for them.

Permissible names like Suleiman al-A`mash (the weak-eyed Suleiman) and Wasil' al-Ahdab (the
hunch-backed Wasil) among the reporters of the Hadith. If there are several men of the same
name and a particular man among them may be recognized only by a particular title or nickname
of his, the title or nickname can be used, even though the title by itself may be offensive. For
instance, if there are several men called `Abdullah, and one of them is blind, he may be called
Abdullah the blind, for his recognition.

Likewise, those titles also are excluded from this command, which though apparently offensive,
are in fact, given out of love and the people who are called by those titles themselves approve
them, like Abu Hurairah (father of the kitten) and Abu Turab (father of the dust).

SITTING IN MEETINGS

When sitting in meetings and gatherings, Muslims are advised to adhere to the following
etiquettes:

1- One should be generous in giving space to others.

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ETIQUETTES OF SITTING

The issue of seating can be embarrassing and insulting sometimes. In Islam it is recommended:
Not to ask someone to leave his seat for someone else. If someone leaves his seat then returns he
will have more right to it. Never sit between two persons. Never make side talk in a meeting.
Never sit in the middle of a circle or a group of people. Always make a room for others to sit and
should not put your feet in the face of others. When sneezing in a meeting always says as the
Prophet said: “If one of you sneeze, let him say: Praise be to Allah! And his Muslim brother
should say to him: May Allah have mercy on you! Upon which he answers: May Allah guide
you and make you well.” Be always cheerful, easy mannered and lenient. And always remember
the presence of Allah and make useful of discussions of various issues. Finally, avoid doing
anything that members of the meeting may dislike, like not paying attention and not listening

Socializing Prophet Mohammad ordered us in Hadith with seven things: Visit the sick, take part
in funerals,, support the week, help those treated unjustly, convey Salaam, free those who gave
the oath .The Qur’an urges us not to show pride and arrogance. Allah says: “And do not turn
your cheek in contempt toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed,
Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful” (Luqman31:18).

BEING KIND, GENTLE AND CARING

Islam forbids Muslims from insulting others’ beliefs or religion. Allah says: “And insult not
those whom they ’the disbelievers’ worship besides Allah, lest they insult Allah wrongfully
without knowledge (AL-An’am6:108) Great merit has been attached to the act of visiting the
sick. For example, the Prophet showed concern for a Jewish woman who’d throw waste on him
whenever he passed her house. The day she failed to throw waste at him, he enquired about her
and came to know that she was sick. He tended to her through her sickness and when she
recovered she instantly accepted Islam. The Prophet has given excellent examples on
forgiveness, kindness and tenderness.

An old woman who intended to leave Makah since she did not like the idea of a new religion
being preached by a young man named “Muhammad” didn’t realize that he was the one helping
her by carrying her belongings and accompanying her till the outskirts of the city. Complaining
all the way about a new faith being preached, which required giving up old customs and
practices, she finally asked the Prophet his name just before parting. On coming to know that this
was the man on account of whom she was about to leave Makah, she not only retraced her steps
and changed her decision of leaving, but also accepted Islam as a result of his exemplary and a
living ideal.

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RESOLVING DIFFERENCES

Islam urges followers to resolve conflicts and differences between people by obeying Allah and
his Messenger .The Qur’an says: “The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between
your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy” (Al-Hujurat 49: 10) There is no
greater evil than that one should hold a Muslim in contempt. In another verse the Quran says:
“So have Taqwa of Allah and settle all matters of difference among you, and obey Allah and His
Messenger, if you are believers” (Al-Anfal 8:1).

BEREAVEMENT AND CONDOLENCES

Condolence has been prescribed to console the deceased family and lighten their pain and
distress. The Prophet said: “A believer who condoles with his brother on bereavement will be
dressed by Allah in the robes of honor and glory on the Day of Resurrection” The Prophet said.
The specific formula for condolence is “May Allah magnify your reward, give you solace and
forgive your deceased one”. When loss of loved one occurs, it is acceptable to cry or weep softly
before death, at the time of death and after the death of a person. However, it is not acceptable to
cry after the burial. Wailing in grief is forbidden “Haram”. Prophet Mohammad in Hadith said:

“He is not one of us who strikes himself, herself on the cheeks, tears his garments and behaves
like the people of “jahiliyyah” time before Islam”.

In Muslim cultures it is desirable to prepare food for the event either by the family of the
deceased or by relatives or neighbors mainly because the family of the deceased will be busy and
don’t have time and feeling for cooking.

GREETINGS AND ENTERING HOMES

Greeting people with a smile is important. Islam considers smiling in the face of others a charity
(Hadith). A smile can convey absence of ill feeling, acceptance, warmth, and the willingness to
share our time or space.

There are five types of smiles in Islam:

 Angry smile. Expressed when telling someone “boss or parent for example” something
contrary to his instruction. He/she may show angry smile.

 Ridicule smile. Ridicule smile can be made in the face of those who don’t believe in God.

 Exclamation smile. Made in the face of someone performing something extraordinary.

 Gentle smile. Made when meeting people and being courteous.

 Optimistic smile. Made in wishing someone well and showing optimism.

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ENTERING OTHERS HOMES

In Islam one should not enter people’s houses without their permission and getting in has to be
through the doors and nothing else like walls or windows. Before entering one’s house seeking
permission from the owner is a must. In Hadith it is said “one should knock the door three times,
if no response, he/she should go back”. When entering one should convey ‘Salaam’ peace and to
withdraw back without hesitation when there is no response. Getting the permission, “Istiizan”
before entering is a must. The Quran says: “O Believers do not enter other houses than your own
until you have the approval of the inmates and have wished them peace; this is the best way for
you: it is expected that you will observe it” (Al-Nur24:27).Unannounced entry sometimes
violates the privacy of the people. Allah enjoined the principle that everybody has a right to
privacy in his own house and no one is entitled to force his entry unannounced and without
permission of the inmates. The rules and regulations enforced by the Prophet in society on
receipt of the above Commandment are given below:

1- The 'right to privacy' was not merely confined to the question of entry in the houses, but
it was declared as a common right according to which it is forbidden to peep into a house,
glance from outside, or even read the other person's letter without his permission. The
practice of the Prophet was that whenever he went to see somebody, he would stand
aside, to the right or the left of the door, and seek permission as it was not then usual to
hang curtains on the doors. The Prophet said:"Whoever glances through the letter of his
brother without his permission, glances into fire."
2- Hearing' is similar to glancing'. For instance, if a blind man enters a house without
permission, he will not be able to see anybody, but he will certainly be able to hear
whatever is going on in the house. This also amounts to violation of the other person's
right of privacy. A man asked the Prophet: "Sir, should I seek permission to enter my
mother's house also?" The Prophet replied by saying he should. The man stated that there
was nobody beside him to look after her, and asked whether it was necessary to get
permission every time he wanted to go in. The Prophet replied: "Yes; would you like that
you should see your mother in a naked state". One should seek permission even when
going to see one's own mother or sister. In daily life, these instructions are not fully
applied especially with the advancement in technology and communication tools like
telephones and social media where people make prior arrangements before going to visit
others in their homes. It has been suggested that even when a person goes to visit one's
wife in one's own house, he should announce his arrival by saying salaam or coughing,
etc.
3- No permission is needed in case of an emergency or a calamity like theft, fire, etc.
4- The permission for entry should come from the master of the house himself or from some
other reliable inmate like a servant or a responsible person, who gives permission on
behalf of the master. One should not enter the house on the word of a mere child.

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5- Undue insistence for permission to enter or to keep standing at the door obstinately even
after refusal, is not permissible. These instructions are in line with the instructions
outlined in the Quran. Allah says: “O Believers, do not enter other houses than your own
until you have the approval of the inmates and have wished them peace; this is the best
way for you: it is expected that you will observe it (Al-Nur 24:28)
Then, if you do not find anyone therein, do not enter until you have been given
permission, and if you are told to go back, you should go back (Al-Nur 24:27-29). The
mere fact that there is nobody in the house or the call is not answered does not entitle
anybody to enter without permission. Nobody has any right to compel the other person
for a meeting or to embarrass him by standing obstinately at his door. Houses which are
not dwelling place" are the hotels, inns, guest houses, shops, staging bungalows, etc.
which are generally open to all people. There is no blame upon you for entering houses
not inhabited in which there is convenience for you. Allah knows what you reveal and
what you conceal. When being greeted, your response has to be with much greater
greeting. The Qur’an says: “And when you are greeted with a greeting, greet in return
with one better than it or at least return it in a like manner. Indeed, Allah watches over
everything” (Al-Nisaa4:86).
Greeting should be in the words “A Salaam Alikum” peace is upon you. The response
should be “Wa Alikum Aslaam Warahmat Allah Wa Barakatuh” which means to you too.
There are four Islamic rules and etiquettes regarding the convey of greetings “Salaam”
 Those riding, for example a car, a donkey, a horse etc. should greet pedestrians.
 Pedestrians should greet who is seated.
 Smaller number of people should greet larger numbers.
 A little or young person should greet an older one. That does not mean that an older
person should not greet the younger especially when the older passes by the younger.
It is preferable, however, to say “Salaam” to those whom you encounter very often like at
home or in the office by saying “Salaam” every time you enter. When entering your
house while nobody home, ,you should greet yourself by saying Salam because “Salaam”
brings the blessings to you and your family (AL-Nur 24 :61). It is recommended also that
when one enters or leaves the Majlis (gathering) he/she should shake hands with others.
However in all cases greetings should precede talking or starting a meeting. Prophet
Mohammad has urged Muslims to be generous with guests and the poor. Feeding guests
for three days is a must and after that it is a charity. The Qur’an says: “and those in whose
wealth there is a known right (Al-Ma’arijj 70:24) and “and in their wealth there was a
rightful share for him who would ask and for the destitute” (Al-Dhariyat 51:19).
Cleanness and Dress
Cleanliness doesn’t mean just wearing a neat and clean dress. It means clean body and
cleanliness in thoughts also. The Prophet said: “Cleanliness is half the faith”. The concept
is to be clean and not to be annoying for people around you. Prophet Mohammad has
worn fine clothing to the cheapest one, sometimes clothing had patches to mend the torn.

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Cleanness means purity. Purity (tahara) can be classified into: Inner thara- Inner tahara
can be achieved by upholding the five pillars of Islam Outer tahara- Outer tahara can be
attained by proper bodily purification e.g. making Wudu (ablution),taking bath, cleaning
teeth, using fragrance or perfumes, keeping house and clothes clean etc. Making Wudu
(ablution) can’t be achieved by having a swim in a pool, a river or in a sea. It can’t also
be done by soaking oneself in a bath top.Cleanness of the body, dress, robes, house,
surrounding areas and that of work place is very much desirable. Allah the almighty likes
those persons who maintain cleanness at all times. The Qur’an says: “Children of Adam!
Take your adornment at every time of Prayer; and eat and drink without going to
excesses. For Allah does not like those who go to excess” (Al-Araf 7:31), and “and purify
your robes” (Al - Muddathir74:4).
These words mean keep your garments free from every filth and impurity, for the purity
of the body and garments and the purity of the spirit are inter-linked and inter-dependent.
Muslims should maintain cleanliness of the mouth and teeth, the Prophet said: “Had it not
been for the fact that I would overburden my nation, I would have ordered them to use
the siwak (tooth-stick) before every Prayer.” and cleaning the places that may become a
breeding ground for germs and filth. The prophet said:“There are five acts which are
from the innate nature with which Allah created man: circumcision, shaving of the pubic
hair, plucking the hair of the armpits, shortening the moustache, and clipping the nails.”
Muslims should avoid impurity “najaasah” and try to avoid it as much as they can.
Impurity comes from making love to wife without making the Ghusl afterward. Impurity
occurs also from urine on clothing, and touching of dogs because they are considered
dirty animals. When going to a mosque, Muslims are ordered by Allah to wear the best
attire and put on perfume or any other natural substances. Muslims should not stand for
prayer without being clean. When going to a mosque for prayer people should avoid
eating any food that makes bad breath like garlic or onion. A mosque founded on
righteousness from the first day is more worthy for you to stand in. Within it is men who
love to purify themselves; and Allah loves those who purify themselves. The Qur’an
says: “For there are such people in it as would like to keep themselves pure; and Allah
likes those people who like to keep themselves pure”(Al-Tawbah 9:108)
The Qur’an, however, does not forbid fine and fancy dress. What is prohibited is pomp
and show, feeling proud on wearing costly/fancy dress (Islahi, 2015). The Prophet is
reported to have said : ‘eat and drink, give charity and put on dress, provided there is no
extravagance and show of proud behavior .For men it is unacceptable to wear silk
clothing’s like silk ties etc or to wear gold jewelry.“0 Children of Adam! Indeed We have
sent down to you a garment which covers your shame and provides protection and
adornment. But the finest of all is the garment of piety. That is one of the signs of Allah
so that they may take heed” (Al-Araf 7:26).

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Women are recommended to use Collyrium “Kohl” as eye shadow. This makes eye
lashes stronger and may seduce husbands to engage in sexual intercourse. How about
tattoos” Washm”? Islam warns believers against tattoos. The majority of Muslims
consider permanent tattoos to be haram, based on “hadith” of the Prophet which says
“Cursed the tattooists and the one who wears tattoos”. Although the reasons for the
prohibition are not mentioned, scholars have outlined various possibilities and arguments:
Tattooing is considered "mutilating" the body, changing Allah's creation, inflicts
unnecessary pain, and introduces the possibility of infection, a form of .deception.
However, all actions prior to Islam are forgiven once a person has embraced Islam.
Therefore, if one had a tattoo before becoming a Muslim, it is not necessary to have it
removed. How about piercing one’s ears? Dying one's hair? Getting orthodontic braces
on one's teeth? Wearing colored contact lenses? Getting a tan and or using whitening
cream"?
Most scholars would say that it is permissible for women to wear jewelry (thus it's
acceptable for women to pierce the ears). One may beautify the body (tanning, colored
contacts, etc.) But damaging the body permanently and changing God's creation by for a
vain reason is considered sin “haram”.
Eating and Hospitality Muslims should eat only Halal and clean food. Eating and
drinking only things which are pure, lawful and wholesome. The Quran says: “Oyou who
believe! Eat of the good and lawful things that We have provided you with, and be
grateful to Allah, if it is indeed He Whom you worship”(Al-Baqarah 2:172) When eating
one should be thankful to Allah and should not show pride and arrogance by eating while
resting on anything like pillow. Islam has forbidden the meat of animals which have
canine teeth; such as lions, leopards, wolves and the like. It has also forbidden birds that
have talons such as eagles, falcons, hawks and other birds of prey. It has forbidden all
types of food or drink which are harmful to one’s body. Allah says: “And do not kill
yourselves (nor kill one another).
Surely, Allah is Most Merciful to you (Al-Nisaa4:29).Eating etiquettes in Islam include
reciting Bismillah, in the name of Allah, in the start, never complain or disapprove of
food whatsoever eat and drink using the right hand. One reason for that is because left
hand is often used in washing ones bottom. Left-handed people, however, are exempted.
Other eating etiquettes include eating from the side of one’s plate, not to eat while
standing, like animals do, never breathe or blow into a plate, not to eat while leaning on
ones side, should not waste food, and avoid eating or drinking to excess. Islam has laid
out guidelines by which one can enjoy good and pure things in a way such that it
maintains moderateness without going into excess, since it would be detrimental to
health. Allah says: “…and eat and drink but waste not by extravagance, certainly He
(Allah) likes not those who waste by extravagance (Al-Araaf 7:31). Too much eating is
harmful, so only fill two-thirds. The Prophet explained how one should eat by saying

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“The son of Adam cannot fill a vessel worse than his stomach, as it is enough for him to
take a few bites to straighten his back.
If he cannot do it, then he may fill it with a third of his food, a third of his drink, and a
third of his breath” Islam has prohibited consuming anything filthy or impure, whether it
is food or drink, such as carrion, blood, swine, intoxicants and drugs. A Muslim should
not go for a meal without being invited. No blame, however, whether he eats together or
separately.
FASTING is one of the five pillars of Islam. Fasting means to abstain "completely" from
foods, drinks, intimate intercourse and smoking, before the break of the dawn till sunset,
during the entire month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It becomes
compulsory for Muslims to start fasting when they reach puberty, as long as they are
healthy and sane, and have no disabilities or illnesses. Exemptions to fasting include
travel, menstruation, severe illness, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. However, many
Muslims with medical conditions insist on fasting to satisfy their spiritual needs, although
it is not recommended by the Hadith. Professionals should closely monitor individuals
who decide to persist with fasting. Those that were unable to fast still must make up the
days missed later. The sick and those who are on medications especially for chronic
diseases and those who are travelling long distance are exempted from fasting, and is
observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting to commemorate the first
revelation of the Quran to Mohammad according to Islamic belief. The Qur’an says:
“Indeed, We sent the Qur'an down during the Night of Decree, And what can make you
know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.
The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter.
Peace it is until the emergence of dawn (AL-Qadr 97:1). Fasting starts from dawn until
sunset. When fasting, Muslims should refrain from consuming food, drinking liquids,
smoking, and engaging in sexual relations. Muslims are also instructed to refrain from
sinful behavior that may negate the reward of fasting, such as insulting, gossip,
backbiting, cursing, lying, etc. (Abuznaid ,2006,128-129 )
Walking Muslims should walk moderately and meeting people happily, talking gently,
speaking in low voice and humbleness in behavior is demanded from the believers by the
Qur’an and Sunnah. Moderation in walking exhibits modesty. Lowering gaze and
keeping away from gazing or mingling with women when walking are some clear
directives of the Qur’an. The Qur’an believers by saying; “Do not strut about in the land
for you can neither cleave the earth nor attain the height of the mountains (Al-lsra’ 17:37)
and says: “O Prophet, enjoin the believing men to restrain their gaze and guard their
private parts. This is a more righteous way for them: Allah has knowledge of what they
do” (Al-Nur 24:29, 30) Walking should be free from every tinge of tyranny, arrogance,
haughtiness, pride and vanity.

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In short, Muslims’ way of conduct should be of those of humble persons. The word
“Ghud Albasar” means to turn a blind eye, reduce, shorten or lower the gaze. It does not
imply that the gaze should always be kept lowered. It only means to imply that one
should restrain one's gaze and avoid steering at people.
Sleeping
When the Prophet would go to his bed, he would say: “Bismika Amootu Waahyaa”
which means “With your Name I die and I live”. Prophet Mohammad, when going to
sleep he used to sleep on his right side with his elbow under his head. That does not mean
that the Prophet does not sleep on his back or left side. However, the prophet did not
sleep on his belly or abdomen as it is the sleep of devil (evil).Before going to sleep the
Prophet used to do the ablution (Wudu) and recite Suras from Quran like Al-Ikhlas and
Al-Falaq. In Al-Ikhlas Allah says: “He is Allah, the One and Unique;Allah, Who is in
need of none and of Whom all are in need; He neither begot any nor was He begotten,
and none is comparable to Him'(Al-Ikhlas112:1, 2, 3, 4).
The Prophet recommended Muslims not to sleep before Maghreb (evening) prayer.
Before going to sleep Muslims need to take care and ward off sources of danger like fire.
The Prophet said “Fire is an enemy to you, so when you want to sleep put it off”. In our
case, nowadays, one need to make sure that all sources of fire are under control, i.e. oven,
gas heater, fire stove, etc must be turned off, before going to sleep. Upon rising, one
should recite the supplications made by the Prophet: “Alhamdu lillaah-illi ahyaana bada
maaamaatanaa wa ilayh-in-nushoor”which means “All praise and thanks be to the One
who brought us to life after having caused us to die, and to Him will we be resurrected
(Al-Sheha,244).
Sexual Relations with Legal Spouse
Marital life and sexual intercourse with a legal spouse are governed and regularized in
Islam. No pleasure than sexual relations with women, and certainly this is the
commentary of the words of Allah.
The Qur’an states: Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women
and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled
land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return. Say,
"Shall I inform you of something better than that? For those who fear Allah will be
gardens in the presence of their Lord beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide
eternally, and purified spouses and approval from Allah. And Allah is seeing of His
servants (Al –Imran 3:14-15) (Al-Baqarah2:223). God's purpose in the creation of
women is not merely to provide men with recreation. Husband and wife relationship is
like that between a farmer and his tilth. A farmer approaches his field not just for the sake
of pleasure, but to acquire produce. Similarly, man ought to approach the tilth of the
human race with the purpose of acquiring produce, that is, offspring.

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Satisfying one’s wife in Islam is an important issue. The lack of satisfaction over a long
period can lead to frigidity and dislike towards the husband. If the husband can’t make
love to his wife, then she can ask for divorce. It is narrated from the Prophet that the
husband and wife must not engage in intercourse while standing like donkeys do. Making
intercourse in a standing position is very much like two donkeys clinging together. It is
also unacceptable to make love to the wife in the open under the sky like on the beach or
on a boat and in the presence of the children or others. Under no circumstance, Muslims
make sexual intercourse with any women other than the wife. Sexual intercourse must be
done in privacy.
However it is recommended to engage in sexual intercourse after the end of menses
“Haydh” as it is harmful. Menstruation is not merely an impurity, but also a state in
which the woman is closer to sickness than to health. If a person who is engaged in
sexual intercourse with his wife discovers that her period has begun, he should
immediately withdraw from her until she become clean “purity” The Qur’an says: “ They
ask about the monthly course. Say, "It is a state of impurity;so keep apart from women
during their monthly course and do not go near them until they are clean. When they have
cleansed themselves, then you may go to them in the manner Allah has enjoined you."
Most surely Allah loves those people who refrain from evil and keep themselves pure and
clean” (Al-Baqarah 2:222).
When she becomes clean, make love to her as Allah commended you. For example, not
making love through the rectum. Sexual intercourse is permissible if it does not because
serious harm (Merali, A. Merali, S .2006).Allah also ordered that one take a complete
bath after sexual discharge or intercourse, as in His words: “And if you have had sexual
discharge, then purify yourself by bathing your whole body” (Al-Ma’idah5:6) If the
wife’s health deteriorates and does not allow her to make love to her husband because of
health issues then it is up to the husband to decide whether to go for a second wife.
Private relations between husband and wife must be kept secret.
In the Market, Charging Interest, Borrowing and Lending
The religion of Islam has permitted all types of financial transactions, such as buying and
selling, forming of companies, rent, trade and bartering in order to make matters
pertaining to daily life easy for them. Nothing is forbidden in Islam except if it ensues a
harm or danger or one of the parties in the transaction stands to be harmed, such as
interest, gambling, or a transaction in which the product or its. In general, trade is lawful
in Islam because it is based on exchange of benefits for both buyers and sellers. But when
harm may be incurred to either of the two parties, the trade is deemed unlawful and
prohibited. Allah says: “O you who believe! Eat not up your property among yourselves
unjustly” (Al-Nisa’ 4:29). Truthfulness and clear descriptions of defects, if any, must be
made. Telling the truth and making everything clear brings blessings to the transactions.
Benevolence, fair dealing, being tolerant and courteous and not making hard sell are
recommended in business.

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Another aspect that Muslims need to be careful about in making business is the avoidance
of swearing oaths when selling. Swearing promotes business and increases sale, yet it
brings all loss. The Qur’an is explicit on the penalties for market abuse: Woe to those
who give less than due, who, when they take a measure from people, take in full, but if
they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss. Do they not think that they
will be resurrected (Al Mutaffifin, 83:1-4).
While in the market Muslims are instructed to refrain from sitting in the streets. A
passerby the market should refrain from carrying harmful weapons or devices, as
enjoined by the gracious Prophet who said: “when any one of you happens to move in our
mosque or bazaar with arrow (in his hand) he must grasp its pointed head in his palm, so
that none among the Muslims should receive any injury from it.”What about taking
interest ‘riba”? The term riba in Arabic means 'to grow, to exceed, to increase'.
Technically, it denotes the amount that a lender receives from a borrower at a fixed rate
of interest. Taking interest is one of the practices that deserve the curse and punishment
from Allah .Interest “riba” is the most dangerous practice after the disbelief in Faith, first
pillar of Islam, which means “There is no God but Allah, Mohammad is His messenger.

Allah stressed this very clearly in the Quran by warning those who don’t give up interest
“riba” by declaring war on them by saying “O Believers fear Allah and give up that
interest which is still due to you, if you are true Believers, but if you do not do so, and
then you are warned of the declaration of war against you by Allah and His Messenger.
If, however, you repent even now (and forego interest), you are entitled to your principal;
do no wrong, and no wrong will be done to you (Al-Baqarah2:278, 279).
The previous verses indicate that those who charge interest become like the one whom
Satan has bewitched and maddened by his touch. They have been condemned to this
condition because they say, "Trade is just like interest',whereas Allah has made trade
lawful and interest unlawful.
How about borrowing and lending?
When lending something like money, jewelry etc. Islam ordered believers to make the
exchange in writing and to have it witnessed .The Qur’an says: “O you, who have
believed, when you contract a debt for a specified term, write it down. And let a scribe
write it between you in justice. Let no scribe refuse to write as Allah has taught him. So
let him write and let the one who has the obligation dictate. And let him fear Allah, his
Lord, and not leave anything out of it. But if the one who has the obligation is of limited
understanding or weak or unable to dictate him, then let his guardian dictate in justice.
And bring to witness two witnesses from among your men. And if there are not two men
available, then a man and two women from those whom you accept as witnesses- so that
if one of the women errs, then the other can remind her. And let not the witnesses refuse
when they are called upon. And do not be too weary to write it, whether it is small or
large, for its specified term.

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That is more just in the sight of Allah and stronger as evidence and more likely to prevent
doubt between you, except when it is an immediate transaction which you conduct among
yourselves. For then there is no blame upon you if you do not write it. And take witnesses
when you conclude a contract. Let no scribe be harmed or any witness. For if you do so,
indeed, it is grave disobedience in you. And fear Allah. And Allah teaches you. And
Allah is knowing of all things” (Al-Baqarah2:282).

TRAVELLING
Travel means leaving one’s home or city going for other destinations. Islam specified
three types of travel: Mandatory travel like travelling for hajj or education etc.
Acceptable travel includes traveling for work, attending a wedding or going on a journey
etc. Unacceptable and forbidden travel includes travelling for the purpose of stealing or
hurting others etc. In Islam, the rules for travel include settling any debt before departure,
leaving family with sufficient provisions. If a traveler doesn’t have the money to settle
his debts, then
 Excusing the debtor and getting his permission to travel is recommended.
 A traveler should also return anything he has taken unjustly to its rightful owner. The
Prophet said: “Whoever, Before one sets out on a journey, he should make sure that he
returns all trusts to their has something which he took unjustly from his brother, let him
free himself from it, for indeed there is no Dinar nor Dirham that someone takes without
right except that it will be taken from his good deeds and given to his brother, and if he
had no good deeds, bad deeds will be taken from his brother and thrown upon him”
 A traveler should choose good company. It is disliked that one travels alone, except in
cases of necessity in which he cannot find anyone to accompany him. The Prophet said to
a person who arrived from a journey: “Who accompanied you? He replied, “No one
accompanied me.”Upon that, the Messenger said:"A lone traveler is a devil, two are two
devils, and three is a traveling group. A traveler should select one of the group as their
leader as has been said by the Prophet “When three people set out on a journey they
should appoint one of them as a leader” (Al-Sheha, 2000.P.247).
 Before departure a traveler must say good bye to his family, friend and companions.
The Prophet said “if one of you intends to set out on a journey, let him say goodbye to his
brothers, for Allah almighty will make in their prayer a blessing for him”. Finally, a
traveler should be polite and show good ethics. He/she is an ambassador for his faith,
nationality and religion. It is recommended that one returns home as soon as his mission
comes to end and it is preferable to return home during the day. Travelling at night is not
recommended. This goes in line with the Arabic saying “Day has eyes”. Though, this is
not feasible now days, with the advance in technology, aviation and international travel.
The Prophet advised families not to travel together in one vehicle or other modes of

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transport. Families should split in separate cars and means of travel. This advice reduces
the amount of risk and danger in case of accidents.

CONCLUSIONS
Islam is a way of life. The Qur’an never gives us suggestions but commanded us to
perform the commands of Allah. It is evident that the Quran and Sunnah stressed very
explicitly the right behavior in Islam. A true Muslim implements the commandments of
the Qur’an and Sunnah in his daily life. A true Muslim is not he who chooses from Islam
what suits him and then leaves all else aside. This article discusses some important
aspects of Muslims’ behavior, etiquettes and manners as prescribed in the Qur’an and
Sunnah. It is evident from the paper that Islamic teachings have laid the foundations for
good, sound and ethical behavior. Muslims should act and behave in accordance to the
Qur’an and teachings of the Prophet. Good interaction and right behavior not only ensure
that Muslims are not violating other people’s rights but can also make them well accepted
and appreciated by others.

Practical Implications Cultural differences are increasingly evident in the world .This
paper will help readers better understand Muslims’ society and behavior which will
eventually promote love, unity, integration and enhance business dealings and
interactions with the Muslim world. It will help promote cross-cultural understanding,
will help non-Muslim businessmen and ordinary people better communicate and
conducting business transactions and dealings with Muslims.
This paper will bridge the cultural gap between the two worlds; therefore, will help avoid
any negative bigotry against Islam and Muslims. Finally the paper will fill a gap in
international literature on the various aspects of Muslims culture and behavior. Finally,
an understanding of Muslims’ behavior will help avoid any negative bigotry of Islam and
Muslims.

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