How to balance work, worldly life, and religion?

Striking a balance between work, worldly life, and religious obligations is one of the greatest challenges and, at the same time, one of the most crucial teachings of the Holy Quran. Islam is a comprehensive religion that neither encourages monasticism and withdrawal from the world nor accepts absolute immersion in materialism. The Quran guides humanity towards a balanced and moderate life in which the rights of God, one's own rights, the rights of family and community, and the rights of the soul are all observed. This balance does not mean an equal division of time, but rather a correct prioritization and maintaining the ultimate purpose of life. The Holy Quran explicitly states that this world is a passage to the Hereafter, not the final destination. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, we read: “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 beautifully articulates the principle of balance: we should strive for the abode of the Hereafter and utilize what Allah has granted us for that purpose, yet simultaneously, we must not forget our portion of this world. This 'portion of the world' includes work, lawful earning, enjoying blessings, marriage, raising children, and other legitimate aspects of life. The Quran emphasizes earning a lawful livelihood and considers work a form of worship, provided it is done with pure intention and for the pleasure of Allah. So, on one hand, Islam permits and even encourages us to use the beauties and facilities of this world, but on the other hand, it warns us not to let this world distract us from the remembrance of God and the ultimate purpose of creation. To achieve this balance, the first step is to correctly understand the place of each dimension in life. Religion should be the main axis and compass of life. All worldly activities, from work and business to social and family relations, must be carried out in the light of religious teachings and with the aim of drawing closer to God. The five daily prayers, as the pillars of faith, play a significant role in organizing time and constantly reminding us of the primary purpose of life. In Surah Al-Jumu'ah, verse 10, it is stated: “And when the prayer has been concluded, disperse within the land and seek from the bounty of Allah, and remember Allah often that you may succeed.” This verse shows that after prayer, one can go about seeking sustenance, but it emphasizes that even then, Allah should be remembered often so that we may succeed. This abundant remembrance is not merely about reciting glorifications, but includes being mindful of Allah's presence at all times, observing lawful and unlawful practices in business, and adhering to Islamic ethics in interactions. Balance means avoiding extremism and negligence. We should neither become so engrossed in work and accumulating wealth that we miss our prayers or neglect the rights of family and society, nor should we become so reclusive and indifferent to the world that we neglect our social and individual responsibilities and become a burden on others. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the infallible Imams (peace be upon them) were perfect examples of this balance; they attended to religious matters, worked and earned lawful sustenance, and also cared for family and community affairs. This practical model demonstrates that one can be active in this world and also prepare for the Hereafter. Time and energy management are also crucial in this path. A reasonable share must be allocated for each aspect of life. For example, dedicating specific time to worship, reciting the Quran, and contemplating divine verses, alongside sufficient time for work, caring for spouse and children, maintaining family ties, and even healthy recreation. This planning not only helps us ensure that no aspect of life is sacrificed for another but also enables us to approach each with higher quality and benefit from divine blessings in our time and life. The goal of this balance is to achieve inner peace and contentment, which leads to happiness in both this world and the Hereafter. Ultimately, it must be remembered that this path requires continuous effort, seeking assistance from Allah, and periodic reviews of personal priorities and performance. The Holy Quran also emphasizes that this world should not be more beloved than Allah, His Messenger, and striving in His cause. In Surah At-Tawbah, verse 24, Allah says: “Say, 'If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your relatives, the wealth which you have obtained, and the commerce in which you fear decline, and the dwellings in which you delight are more beloved to you than Allah and His Messenger and jihad in His cause, then wait until Allah executes His command. And Allah does not guide the defiantly disobedient people.'” This verse strongly warns that if attachment to worldly matters (including wealth and trade) surpasses love for Allah and His religion, it will not lead to good outcomes. This does not negate love for family or striving for wealth, but rather refers to the prioritization of the heart. Meaning, when faced with a conflict, love for Allah and obeying His commands must take precedence over everything else. This balance is not just a strategy for a successful life, but the essence of true happiness and the path to eternal salvation. With this approach, even daily work can transform into a great act of worship, if performed with the intention of serving creation and earning lawful sustenance for divine pleasure.