Islam is not just a religion but a complete way of life, guiding humanity in all aspects, including trade, social interactions, and spirituality. One of the most significant weekly gatherings in Islam is Jumu’ah (Friday) prayer, which holds immense importance for Muslims. The Qur’an explicitly commands believers to leave all business activities when the call for Jumu’ah is made. However, in countries like Pakistan and India, this divine directive is often ignored, leading to both spiritual and worldly consequences.
Quranic Command: Prioritizing Worship Over Trade
Allah commands in Surah Al-Jumu’ah (62:9):
“O you who have believed, when [the call] is made for prayer on the day of Jumu’ah, then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave off trade. That is better for you, if only you knew.”
This verse makes it obligatory for Muslims to pause all business transactions and head to the mosque when the Adhan for Jumu’ah is called. The instruction is clear – spiritual duties must take precedence over economic activities.
Pakistan & India – Markets Remain Open Despite the Divine Order
In many Muslim-majority countries, businesses shut down for Jumu’ah prayer, ensuring that every Muslim has the opportunity to fulfill this obligation. However, in Pakistan and India, despite being home to millions of Muslims, a significant portion of the markets remain open during Jumu’ah. This leads to a situation where traders, shopkeepers, and even customers continue their commercial engagements instead of attending the Friday prayer.
The reasons for this negligence vary:
- Some traders fear losing profits.
- Many believe that missing one Jumu’ah prayer is not a big deal.
- Customers continue shopping, indirectly encouraging businesses to remain open.
Unfortunately, such behavior not only contradicts Islamic teachings but also results in a loss of barakah (blessings) in their trade and livelihood.
Read: Iftar Timings for 12th Ramadan in Pakistan
Spiritual & Worldly Benefits of Following Allah’s Command
Closing businesses for Jumu’ah brings countless blessings. Traders who obey this command often see unexpected growth in their earnings. Their businesses thrive despite closing for prayer. Many shopkeepers share stories of increased profits and customer loyalty.
Prioritizing Jumu’ah also protects from losses and disasters. Some traders who closed for prayer avoided financial crises, thefts, or accidents. Their businesses remained safe while others faced hardships. This proves that Allah rewards those who follow His guidance.
Faith and inner peace grow stronger with obedience. Regular Jumu’ah prayers bring spiritual fulfillment. Those who put worship before trade feel a deeper connection to Allah. Their hearts find contentment, and stress reduces.
Respect in the community also increases. Customers trust businesses that uphold religious values. A shop that closes for prayer earns admiration. People prefer to buy from those who prioritize faith over money.
Following Allah’s command does not reduce success. Instead, it invites barakah and prosperity. Every trader should reflect on these benefits. Choosing prayer over profit leads to rewards in this life and the hereafter.
It’s Time for Us to Reflect
The divine command to close markets for Jumu’ah is a test of faith and obedience. Many examples show that those who prioritize Allah’s instructions are rewarded with success and protection, while those who ignore them often face unseen misfortunes.
It is time for Pakistan and India to implement this practice nationwide. Business owners, traders, and customers should work collectively to ensure that Jumu’ah remains a time of worship, not of trade. Only by following Allah’s command can we hope to bring true prosperity, stability, and blessings into our lives.
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