[10]. Muhammad, God's messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), said: “Avoid the deadly sins, follow the right course, and give glad tidings.”
[11]. Do not elevate yourselves and be wise in your own eyes.
[13]. This world is the passageway to the Hereafter and that no one should be attached to this world at the expense of the Hereafter. Muslims regard the Hereafter as their focal point because it is eternal life, so we should strive for that aim and not for a life that is short and transient. This does not mean that we should not strive for worldly aims too or develop the earth. There is no doubt about the fact that man cannot make any progress without effort and hard work. For example, one who studies whole-heartedly becomes a scholar. Similarly, a farmer who ploughs the farm, sows seeds in it and waters them, is soon rewarded with crops. On the other hand, whoever is lazy and indolent and does not do any work, is faced with woes and worries. Indolence and irresponsibility results in poverty and grief, and Islam dislikes these traits very much. Islam regards hard work a duty. One who works is much better than one who does not work. Allāh does not love those who sleep too much, and do not work. Laziness and idleness is the root of many evil things, while working hard and helping others is virtue. Muslims achieved distinction in these fields, they also achieved great things in the fields of worship and obedience to Allaah. Muhammad, God's messenger, said, “When the human being dies, his deeds end except for three: ongoing charity 'that continues to benefit people', beneficial knowledge 'that helps people in their lives', or a righteous child who prays for him.” So the Muslim strives more in what brings him close to Allāh.
[14]. Those who are diligent, disciplined, and sincere in their work naturally rise to positions of trust, leadership, and stability.
Hard work earns respect and opens doors of opportunity; those who persevere gain control over their circumstances, while those who neglect effort often lose their freedom and must live by the will of others.
Laziness and neglect lead to dependency and regret, whereas diligence and responsibility bring dignity and self-reliance.
This is a law written into both the world and the soul — the law of effort and consequence.
In Islam, this principle extends beyond the material life. Just as labor and persistence build success in this world, striving in goodness, worship, and service builds one’s place in the Hereafter.
A believer works with purpose — to earn a goodly life here and eternal reward in Paradise. Therefore, work hard with sincerity and excellence — seeking both worldly benefit and divine pleasure.
For diligence brings honor in this life, and steadfast striving for Allāh’s sake brings everlasting joy in the next.
[15]. The Qur’an is clear that there is a time for us to laugh, time to weep, a time to mourn and a time to play. Obviously, it is not appropriate to laugh during a somber event or a serious conversation; however, there are moments when laughter is welcomed and we should enjoy the blessing. Allāh wants us to laugh, and He wants us to make other people laugh. That does not mean we should all become jesters or laugh at inappropriate times, but we can certainly aid one another in taking a more lighthearted approach to life.
[16]. If Allah’s servants did cry out to Him, He would forgive their sins and renew their spiritual strength and vitality. When our distinct cries of repentance and trust reach Allāh, He hears them, forgives us, and renews our joy and hope in Him.