The Ethical Dimension of Trade: Goldsmithing and General Merchandise
Imam al-Ghazali’s understanding of trade, as addressed in his *Ihya Ulum* (Revival of Religious Sciences), goes beyond mere economic gain to encompass moral responsibilities. Earlier scholars were particularly cautious towards professions like goldsmithing, which exemplify the pursuit of profit through subtle details rather than the product itself. It is emphasized that exploiting the ignorance of the owner for unjust gains in such activities is morally unacceptable. Conversely, general merchandise (fabric trade) conducted with principles of honesty and justice is more commendable; because this trade establishes trust between buyer and seller and offers the possibility of lawful earnings. The Prophetic tradition, ‘The best of trades is the cloth merchant’s,’ also points to this situation.
The Importance of Arts and Professions Requiring Careful Consideration
Al-Ghazali attached great importance to the arts; he even mentioned calligraphy as a profession he desired to pursue. There are reasons for preferring many crafts, such as gem setting, trade, and transport, including providing a livelihood and offering the possibility of earning through lawful means. However, attention is drawn to certain groups of professions (e.g., weavers, cotton merchants) that may be considered to require careful consideration in society. This is because these professions often involve close interaction with women and children; this situation can bring about negative effects arising from spending time with people whose minds are not fully developed. Therefore, the principle of maintaining mental health while being well-intentioned should also be remembered.
Awareness of the Hereafter and Daily Rituals
The integration of awareness of the hereafter into commercial life holds an important place in al-Ghazali’s work. A Muslim should not allow the world market to prevent him from remembering the afterlife; mosques are the marketplace of the hereafter. The beginning and end of the day should be spent remembering Allah. As advised by Caliph Umar, it is emphasized that a merchant should allocate the beginning of his day to the hereafter and the rest to the world. Furthermore, engaging in *tahlil* (declaration of God’s oneness) and *tasbih* (glorification of God) even while shopping in the marketplace, remembering Allah among the heedless, will provide significant benefit on the Day of Resurrection. This approach contributes to the commercial life gaining meaning with spiritual depth.