Today, the rampant pursuit of ill-gotten income is alarming, yet few seem to acknowledge it. We have lost sight of the reality that when greed overtakes a person's inner spirit, they surrender to love, kindness, and compassion, becoming slaves to their own selfish ambitions.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) left us with several wise sayings, which continue to resonate with people across the world. Among these, there are five that stand out for their profound insight into the relationship between faith and commerce:

• Firstly, he said that worship is divided into ten parts, with nine belonging to the desire to earn deeds from permissible sources. This highlights the importance of engaging in legitimate means of earning a livelihood and the positive impact it has on one's spiritual well-being.
• Secondly, the Prophet urged us to strive to make money from permissible (halal) sources, as it ensures that our prayers will be answered. This is a reminder that our financial pursuits should align with our religious values and principles.
• Thirdly, he warned against the dangers of ill-gotten money, stating that it causes more damage than two hungry wolves who ate a herd of sheep. This vivid metaphor serves as a cautionary tale for those who seek to acquire wealth through deceitful and unethical means.
• Fourthly, the Prophet equated an honest and diligent trader with the rank of Prophets, pious individuals, and martyrs. This highlights the immense value that Islam places on business ethics and underscores the idea that commerce can be a means of achieving spiritual growth.
• Finally, he emphasized that income earned with the intention of piety does not bring the wrath of punishment and destruction. However, it is considered execrable and harmful where no efforts are made to distinguish between permissible (halal) and ill-gotten (haram) income. This reminds us that our intentions matter as much as our actions and that we must strive to be mindful of the ethical implications of our financial dealings.

The Holy Quran states in Chapter 23, Verse 51 "O (you) Messengers! Eat of the Taiyibat [all kinds of Halal (legal) foods which Allah has made legal (meat of slaughtered eatable animals, milk products, fats, vegetables, fruits, etc.], and do righteous deeds. Verily! I am Well-Acquainted with what you do."

The importance of the following verse is so high that it shall be written in front of all important government and private offices.  

The Holy Quran states in Chapter 5, Verse 100 "Say (O Muhammad ): "Not equal are Al-Khabith (all that is evil and bad as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons, foods, etc.) and At-Taiyib (all that is good as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons, foods, etc.), even though the abundance of Al-Khabith (evil) may please you." So fear Allah much [(abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which He has forbidden) and love Allah much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained)], O men of understanding in order that you may be successful."

Earning haram income can have devastating consequences, including causing the breakdown and suffering of families, with children being particularly susceptible to straying from the right path.

It's crucial to remember that the cornerstone of virtuous deeds and worship is earning halal income or engaging in halal means of earning. 

Without this foundation, all other efforts towards goodness and devotion are rendered futile.