How does the Quran recommend lawful sustenance (Halal Rizq)?

In the sublime and comprehensive teachings of the Holy Quran, the issue of earning lawful and pure sustenance (Halal Rizq) holds a foundational importance and a special place. The Quran not only emphasizes the necessity of earning sustenance but also elaborates on the manner and quality of this earning. This emphasis is not merely about the permissibility of certain foods but encompasses all aspects of human economic and livelihood, founded on principles of ethics, justice, and piety. The concept of 'halal' in the Quran extends beyond simply being 'permissible'; it signifies 'pure,' 'good,' 'lawful,' and 'acquired through legitimate means' that align with sound human nature and divine teachings. This concept covers the entire process of earning and consuming; from the method of production and acquisition to the manner of consumption and gratitude for it. The Holy Quran repeatedly calls upon humanity to eat from the lawful and good provisions that Allah has placed on earth. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 168, it states: “O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful and good and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.” This verse indicates that seeking lawful sustenance is a universal command for all humanity and prohibits following the footsteps of Satan, meaning any illicit or impure means of earning. Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 88, we read: “And eat of what Allah has provided for you as lawful and good, and fear Allah, in whom you are believers.” This directive is given to believers and emphasizes the importance of divine consciousness (Taqwa) alongside consuming lawful sustenance, indicating an inseparable link between lawful earning and servitude to Allah. The Quran strictly forbids acquiring wealth through falsehood and illicit means. In Surah An-Nisa, verse 29, Allah says: “O you who have believed, do not consume one another's wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent. And do not kill yourselves [or one another]. Indeed, Allah is to you ever Merciful.” This verse prohibits all unlawful methods of earning income such as usury (riba), bribery, theft, gambling, fraud, embezzlement, and any transaction involving deceit, trickery, or injustice. The emphasis on 'business by mutual consent' highlights the importance of justice, transparency, and honesty in economic transactions. According to the Quran, earning sustenance must be through legitimate and just work and effort; trade, agriculture, industry, and any profession that benefits society and is acquired through lawful means are affirmed. The significance of lawful sustenance in the Quran goes beyond a mere economic ruling; it is intertwined with the spiritual and ethical dimensions of human life. Lawful sustenance is presented as a primary factor for the purity of the soul and heart, and as a prerequisite for the acceptance of worship, especially supplication (Du'a). Unlawful earnings contaminate the soul, cast a veil over the heart, and prevent prayers from being answered. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever eats a forbidden morsel, his prayer is not accepted for forty days.” This illustrates the direct and close connection between the lawfulness of sustenance and human spiritual growth. On the other hand, reliance on Allah (Tawakkul) combined with striving for lawful sustenance is very important. The Quran in numerous verses identifies Allah as the ultimate Provider, but this does not mean that a person should abandon effort; rather, one must strive wholeheartedly in the path of lawful earning, while entrusting the outcome to Allah. This combination of effort and reliance grants a person peace and contentment, even if their provision is meager. Barakah (blessing), which is heavily emphasized in the Quran and Hadith, is directly linked to the lawfulness of sustenance. Lawful sustenance, even if small, is blessed and brings inner peace and satisfaction, whereas unlawful wealth, no matter how abundant, lacks blessing and leads to anxiety and ruin. In summary, the Quranic recommendations regarding lawful sustenance emphasize four fundamental principles: firstly, the sustenance's source must be lawful and pure (halal and tayyib); secondly, the method of acquisition must be legitimate and just, avoiding any falsehood; thirdly, the connection of lawful sustenance with spiritual purity, acceptance of worship, and inner peace; and fourthly, reliance on Allah alongside effort and striving. These teachings provide a comprehensive framework for an ethical and religiously guided economic life that ensures not only worldly prosperity but also human salvation in the hereafter. Adherence to these principles in today's complex world, where illicit means of earning are on the rise, is more necessary than ever and will pave the way for individual and societal well-being.