Islamic Rulings on Workers’ Rights
By Zaina Siddiqui

 

The rulings set for employers and employees are simple and call for justice between the two parties. Allah set clear guidelines and boundaries that both must follow. Regardless of what your status or position is, the rules remain the same.

Your employer has rights over you, that they must comply with when employing you. These are the expectations that you must have from your employer.

1. Pay employee wages on time 

Remember that delaying wages may cause difficulties for the employee, as he may not have enough money to buy food and other essential necessities.

Prophet Mohammed, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “Give the wages of the employee before his sweat dries” (Ibn Majah, Hadith no. 2468).

2. Wages should be paid in the correct amount.

The employer should pay the agreed-upon amount. In the Islamic religion, unlawful deduction is forbidden.

Allah mentions, “Do not withhold from the people the things that are their due” (Qur’an 7:85). 

3. Workload: Don’t give an employee more work than s/he can handle.

If his or her workload is excessive, assist them. 

4. Make agreements that are clear and appropriate. 

All agreements must be explicit and transparent, whether oral or written. Agreements must be fair and legal. Employees should be aware of their obligations and responsibilities, as well as their rights regarding vacations, leaves, and compensation, among other things.

Allah mentions, “O you who believe, fulfill your contracts.” (Qur’an 5:1). 

The Prophet said, “Muslims must abide by their agreements, unless there is an agreement that makes Halal what is Haram or makes Haram what is Halal.” (At-Tirmidhi). 

5. Workers’ rights to dignity 

All human beings have the right to engage in any authorized profession or occupation, as well as to engage in any lawful trade or company, according to Islamic law. Workers should be treated with respect and decency. There is no such thing as menial or demeaning employment.

6. Kindness to employees

Employees should be able to balance work and personal time with their family. Children and minors should never be forced to work.

Women should be able to wear Hijab in a comfortable situation without jeopardizing the  Khalwah regulations (privacy). They should be guaranteed maternity leave.

Living in the West, you may not always come across Muslim employers. However, this does not mean you accept any behavior or ill. You can still stick to your expectation and ask for your rights even if you have non-Muslim employers.

You must uphold your dignity as a Muslim. When you respect yourself, others respect you.

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