Does the Quran refer to entrepreneurship and wealth creation?

While the exact term "entrepreneurship" as understood in modern economic discourse is not explicitly mentioned in the Holy Quran, the sacred text contains a wealth of principles and injunctions that strongly encourage economic activity, the creation of lawful wealth, and personal and societal development through legitimate business endeavors. Islam does not condemn wealth accumulation per se; rather, it views it as a means for developing the earth, providing for family and society, and performing good deeds, provided that this wealth is acquired through lawful means and used in an ethical and responsible manner. One of the most fundamental concepts in this regard is the encouragement of "work" and "effort." The Quran discourages idleness and laziness, considering diligent work for lawful sustenance a great act of worship. In Surah Al-Jumu'ah, verse 10, Allah Almighty states: "Fāʾidhā quḍiyatiṣ-ṣalātu fāntashirū fil-arḍi wabtaghū min faḍlillāhi waadhkurullāha kathīran laʿallakum tufliḥūn" (And when the prayer has been concluded, disperse through the land and seek from the bounty of Allah, and remember Allah often that you may succeed). This verse clearly indicates that after fulfilling their religious obligation (prayer), believers should spread out in the land to earn a living and seek Allah's bounty. This dispersion can include trade, agriculture, industry, and any other productive activity that leads to wealth creation and service to the community. This verse serves as a divine permission and encouragement for economic activities and lays the groundwork for entrepreneurship in its broad sense. This approach acknowledges the human role in developing the earth and utilizing divine blessings for good and prosperity. In addition to encouraging effort and earning a livelihood, the Quran places significant emphasis on "lawful trade" and "justice in transactions." In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 275, Allah declares usury (riba) forbidden and trade permissible: "Alladhīna ya'kulūnar-ribā lā yaqūmūna illā kamā yaqūmul-ladhī yatakhabbaṭuhush-shayṭānu minal-massi; dhālika bi'annahum qālū innamal-bayʿu mithlur-ribā wa aḥallallāhul-bayʿa wa ḥarramar-ribā..." (Those who consume interest will not stand [on the Day of Resurrection] except as one stands who is being beaten by Satan into insanity. That is because they say, "Trade is only like interest." But Allah has permitted trade and forbidden interest...). This verse explicitly permits trade and the exchange of goods and services, which are the very foundation of entrepreneurship and wealth creation, distinguishing it from usury, which leads to exploitation and inequality. Furthermore, numerous verses emphasize the importance of observing justice and fairness in weights and measures and fulfilling contracts in commercial dealings, such as Surah Hud, verse 85: "Wa yā qawmi awfūl-mikyāla wal-mīzāna bil-qisṭi walā tabkhasūn-nāsa ashyā'ahum walā taʿthaw fil-arḍi mufsidīn" (And O my people, give full measure and weight in justice and do not deprive people of their due and do not commit abuse in the earth, spreading corruption). These teachings establish an ethical and secure framework for the growth of economic activities and assure entrepreneurs and economic actors that by adhering to these principles, their businesses are legitimate and divinely approved. Another crucial aspect is social responsibility concerning wealth. The Quran considers wealth a trust from Allah and emphasizes the necessity of spending in charity (infaq), Zakat (obligatory charity), and voluntary Sadaqa. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 267, it states: "Yā ayyuhalladhīna āmanū anfiqū min ṭayyibāti mā kasabtum wamimmā akhrajnā lakum minal-arḍi..." (O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned and from that which We have produced for you from the earth...). This injunction not only contributes to the just distribution of wealth but also aids in stimulating financial circulation and reinvestment, thereby fostering economic dynamism and creating new opportunities for entrepreneurship. Becoming wealthy with the intention of helping others and performing good deeds is highly commendable in Islam, as this type of wealth accumulation not only benefits the individual but also brings goodness and blessings to society. This perspective transforms wealth from a purely personal goal into a means for collective advancement and the realization of social justice, playing a significant role in an economy based on Islamic ethics. Moreover, the Quran emphasizes moderation and balance in all matters, including wealth acquisition and consumption. The primary goal of worldly life is not to forget the Hereafter; rather, a balance must be struck between this world and the next. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, we read: "Wabtaghi fīmā ātākallāhud-dāral-ākhirah; walā tansa naṣībaka minad-dunyā; wa aḥsin kamā aḥsanallāhu ilayka walā tabghil-fasāda fil-arḍi; innallāha lā yuḥibbul-mufsidīn" (But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters). This verse provides a comprehensive framework for economic activities: striving for the Hereafter using worldly blessings, enjoying a lawful share of the world, doing good and showing kindness to others, and avoiding corruption. This implies that entrepreneurship and wealth creation must be conducted within the framework of ethical and divine values and must not lead to corruption or injustice, but rather contribute to the development and betterment of society. In summary, by encouraging work and effort, permitting trade, emphasizing justice in transactions, and promoting charity and social responsibility regarding wealth, the Holy Quran has provided a robust and inspiring foundation for "Islamic entrepreneurship" and "legitimate wealth creation." This approach views wealth not merely as an end but as a means to achieve higher goals such as meeting societal needs, creating job opportunities, and assisting the needy, thereby ensuring both economic growth and social justice. Therefore, although the modern term 'entrepreneurship' is not found in the Quran, its spirit and content are deeply rooted in divine verses, calling Muslims to productive and constructive economic activities while adhering to ethical and social principles.