‘Practising Moderation Amid Current Economic Challenges Also A Form Of Sacrifice’

Zulhijah is the final month of the Islamic calendar and one of the most anticipated months for Muslims worldwide as the rewards are multiplied for every good deed performed during this period.

The month also teaches Muslims the true meaning of sacrifice. On the 10th day of Zulhijah, Muslims around the world celebrate Aidiladha, commemorating the spirit of sacrifice exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and his son, Prophet Ismail. During this occasion, Muslims who are financially able perform the ritual of korban (sacrificial ritual).

However, according to Islamic scholars, in today’s context, sacrifice is not limited to the slaughtering of livestock. It also encompasses the way Muslims navigate life while the world and nations face ongoing challenges, such as the current global supply crisis.

ECONOMIC CHALLENGES

Mohamad Haeqal Ishak, a lecturer at the Department of Al-Quran and Al-Hadith at the International Islamic University Malaysia, said the rising cost of living is itself a form of test that demands sacrifice from Muslims.

Mohamad Haeqal Ishak

“The world is currently facing economic crises, as well as wars, inflation and global instability, all of which should be understood as part of life’s trials that call for patience, resilience and sacrifice from Muslims. In Islam, trials are not merely viewed as disasters but as opportunities to strengthen one’s faith, cultivate patience, reinforce solidarity and deepen devotion to Allah,” he told Bernama, adding that economic hardship and life’s difficulties are part of Allah’s divine decree that will inevitably occur in human life.

“What matters most is how a person responds to such trials.”

Mohamad Haeqal added that amid the current global supply crisis, sacrifice can take many forms, including sacrificing wealth, time, energy and personal interests in order to help others and uphold humanitarian values.

For example, even when many people are facing financial pressure, Islam teaches its followers to continue performing charitable deeds and help their neighbours, care for the welfare of their families and avoid selfishness.

“Another form of sacrifice during this period of geopolitical tension involves emotional and moral discipline. In a society where people are increasingly stressed and easily angered due to life’s pressures, Muslims are encouraged to remain patient, uphold good character, control their desires and avoid oppressing others for personal gain.

“Aidiladha reminds us that true sacrifice is not merely about slaughtering animals, but about being willing to ‘slaughter’ greed, ego, excessive individualism and unhealthy attachment to worldly desires. At times, the greatest sacrifice is putting the needs of others first even when we ourselves are facing difficulties,” he said.

LESSONS

Drawing lessons from Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail’s spirit of sacrifice, Mohamad Haeqal said their story should not merely be viewed as a historical event but as a model of faith and life education that is relevant throughout the ages.

Sacrifice today is no longer merely about slaughtering animals, but also about sacrificing ego, greed, arrogance, and excessive love for worldly pursuits.--BERNAMApic

He explained that although modern-day challenges may differ, the values being tested remain the same, that is, how far a person is willing to place Allah above personal desires and worldly temptations.

“The story of Prophet Ibrahim teaches us absolute obedience to Allah. Prophet Ismail demonstrated obedience, patience and complete trust in Allah’s wisdom. These lessons are especially important in today’s world, where success is often measured by material wealth, popularity and personal interests.

“In modern life, the spirit of sacrifice can be expressed in many ways. For example, parents sacrificing to provide religious upbringing for their children despite social and technological challenges; sacrificing time and energy to help the community; giving up unlawful practices to uphold religious principles; and willingness to restrain desires and selfishness,” he said.

Commenting on government austerity measures, including initiatives such as the targeted fuel subsidy programme BUDI95, Mohamad Haeqal said in Islam, prudence and wise financial management are certainly a part of a form of sacrifice and also a sign of responsibility for a Muslim, especially during difficult economic times.

He also said that Islam does not encourage a lifestyle of extravagance or excessive spending. Instead, it emphasises moderation, balance and the responsible management of the blessings entrusted by Allah. He added that in times of rising living costs, practising moderation and frugality becomes an act of worship when done with the intention of protecting personal, family and societal well-being.

“When a person reduces unnecessary expenses, limits fuel consumption, saves on utilities or postpones certain desires for more important needs, that too is a form of sacrifice,” he said.

He added that Aidiladha teaches that sacrifice does not always require extraordinary acts. Sometimes, small but consistent sacrifices, such as controlling personal desires, prioritising needs over wants and living modestly, also suffice. 

MEANING OF SACRIFICE

Meanwhile, explaining the korban ritual, Dr Mohd Shahid Mohd Noh, head of the Department of Syariah and Economics at the Academy of Islamic Studies at Universiti Malaya, said it refers to the slaughtering of specific livestock, with the meat distributed to designated groups.

Dr Mohd Shahid Mohd Noh

According to him, the ritual is also a form of charity that brings a person closer to Allah. It is also a manifestation of their sacrifice while strengthening relationships through the sharing of sustenance.

“Sustenance is a blessing from Allah that should unite hearts rather than become a cause of division or conflict. The story of Prophet Ibrahim and his son (Prophet Ismail) is clear proof of the immense obedience required in carrying out Allah’s command, even when it involves sacrificing something precious.

“Kurban is a specific act of worship. However, the concept of sacrifice exists in our daily lives. True sacrifice lies in obeying Allah’s commands in ways that ultimately benefit humanity,” he told Bernama.

Touching on the ongoing global supply crisis, he said the tensions have slowed economic activity in several sectors, causing many people to feel the impact.

“In nurturing and strengthening the spirit of sacrifice and mutual assistance, it becomes essential for us to extend help to those in need, especially those around us.

“The economic system advocated by Islam is based on sharing sustenance, as seen through zakat, waqf and the annual practice of korban. All these demonstrate that wealth should circulate within society rather than being concentrated among certain groups,” he said.

Mohd Shahid added that practising moderation and frugality should not only occur during difficult times but become a way of life.

“Every human being has needs and Islam acknowledges and permits people to enjoy their blessings within the framework of moderation,” he said.