ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Principles of Upbringing Children Chapter 46: Work and Performance of Duties Work and efforts to achieve are the basis of human life. Through work man acquires the basic amenities of food, clothing and shelter these needs are fulfilled by making tireless efforts throughout ones life. The growth of industries and mind-boggling inventions are all the results of continuous research and development activity of human beings.

It is sheer hard work and knowledge that gave birth to the civilizations in the world. It is the collective greatness of the people of a country that they have a prominent place in the comity of nations. The prosperity of any country is a direct reflection of the hard efforts put in by the people of that nation. If the people of a country are lazy and compulsive malingerers, that country will lag behind others in all fields of activity. Such countries will not be prosperous.

Such nations will not be productive and will always remain in the morass of backwardness. Similarly the progress of every individual too will depend on his knowledge, skills and sincerity of efforts. The world is a place for hard work and toil. It has no place for people who shirk and avoid their duties.

Allah says in the Holy Book: “Whatever man has got is the result of his striving." (Qur’an, 53:39) The Prophet of Islam says: "Accursed is one who puts his burden on others."[^1] The Prophet also said: “Prayer has seventy aspects and the most excellent is the toil to obtain honest livelihood."[^2] Imam Ja’far as-Sadiq says: “Convey my greetings to my friends and exhort them to remain pious and prepare themselves for the Day of Reckoning.

By Allah I ask you do such things, which I myself with hard toil After morning prayers, stir out early for work and acquire honest livelihood. Allah will then provide you food and succour"[^3] Imam Muhammad Baqir says: “I don’t like the person who is lazy in performing his worldly duties.

A person who is slow in this life will also be slow Hereafter"[^4] Imam Ja’far as-Sadiq says: “A person who toils to provide sustenance to his family will get the reward equivalent to a jihad ."[^5] Imam as-Sadiq also said: “The farmers are depositories for men. They sow good seeds and Allah helps them grow. On the Day of Judgment the farmers will have an excellent place.