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A miserable one, which leads to hell. This is evident from the fiery sparks, stress, and unwelcoming conditions existent on this “new” path.
[30:41] Disasters have spread throughout the land and sea, because of what the people have committed. He thus lets them taste the consequences of some of their works, that they may return (to the right works).
[38:59] “This is a group to be thrown into Hell with you.” They will not be welcomed (by the residents of Hell). They have deserved to burn in the hellfire.
What should we do? God has given us the criteria to make it to heaven, and it starts with discarding all idol worship. By worshipping GOD Alone, believing in the Hereafter, and following God’s command, we enjoy a perfect life here and in the Hereafter. This can ensure, by God’s will, the train NEVER derails (as much as possible God willing!).
[39:17] As for those who discard the worship of all idols, and devote themselves totally to GOD alone, they have deserved happiness. Give good news to My servants.
[2:62] Surely, those who believe, those who are Jewish, the Christians, and the converts; anyone who (1) believes in GOD, and (2) believes in the Last Day, and (3) leads a righteous life, will receive their recompense from their Lord. They have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve.
[13:29] Those who believe and lead a righteous life have deserved happiness and a joyous destiny.
Praise be to GOD.
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[42:52] Thus, we inspired to you a revelation proclaiming our commandments. You had no idea about the scripture, or faith. Yet, we made this a beacon to guide whomever we choose from among our servants. Surely, you guide in a straight path.
The Quran is certainly a source of inspiration. It is the most relevant book of laws and practices. While people look to the Quran for religious guidance, a study of the Quran will show that it is not only an extraordinary source of religious guidance but also contains the supreme text for business policies and best practices. Today, there are several books on ‘Best Business Practices’, most of them teaching people through the author’s experiences. People pay a lot to buy them, and why not? The authors are business heads of some of the most successful businesses, and learning from their experiences could help further our careers or businesses. However, God has given us a Quran that holds the key to some of the most time tested practices along with His assurance that following these practices will ensure success; assurance that none of the other authors can give.
Some of the ‘Best Business Practices’ advocated by top business schools and encouraged by expert consultants across the globe are, develop a plan, talk to the experts, respect your customer, keep it legal, teach by using relevant examples and case studies, to mention a few. These doctrines are not new; God has disclosed them for us at the time of revelation of the Quran. All we have to do is keep an open mind and be willing to learn from God.
Develop a plan: A business plan is a blueprint for any business. Planning helps keep the business on track. It serves as a guide to accomplishing goals. Planning helps us articulate our thoughts and act and deliver effectively in any situation. This principle is not new to submitters. In the Quran God encourages us to develop a plan; one that we can use for better opportunities in this life and in the hereafter.
[3:159] … Once you make a decision, carry out your plan, and trust in GOD. GOD loves those who trust in Him.
God controls everything and plans for the believers.
[8:44] And when the time came and you faced them, He made them appear fewer in your eyes, and made you appear fewer in their eyes as well. For GOD willed to carry out a certain plan. All decisions are made by GOD.
While submitters know that God is running everything, planning and continuous reviewing of plans, be they for business, career or submission, will help us stay on the path to success.
Talk to the experts: All business schools encourage you to ‘talk to the experts’—peoplewho have distinguished themselves in their field. Leaders of Fortune 500 companies are sought after in order to learn from their knowledge and experiences. Having been through many situations they are in a position to teach us without going through the mistakes ourselves. God has already told us to adopt this practice in [25:59] He is the One who created the heavens and the earth, and everything between them, in six days, then assumed all authority. The Most Gracious; ask about Him those who are well founded in knowledge.
God encourages us to talk to the experts when we are unsure. While this is God’s system of teaching us the Quran, the same holds true in all other aspects of life, even our businesses or jobs. When in doubt, talk to the experts.
Respect your customers: Leaders of all successful business houses are people who respect their peers and do not disregard them. Even when they disagree with them, they treat them with utmost respect as they have to work together to run a successful enterprise. Speaking from personal experience God has shown me the power of respecting others and speaking to them in the nicest possible manner. It can truly make peers and colleagues go the extra mile for you.
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