Trade, Money and Commercialization of Religion in the Primary Sources of Islam: A Compact Analysis of Scriptural Passages and Their Contemporary Relevance

The intertwining of trade, money and religion in the context of Islam attest to their relationship according its primary sources as well as to certain principles of action contained in these sources that apply to circumstances of real life. This chapter presents a compact analysis of some examples from the sources Qur’an and Hadith on the topics of trade and commerce. In the process, ethical dimensions of making money will also be highlighted and reflected upon. The question arises how and in which contexts the primary sources of Islam deal with the topic of commerce and which principles can be derived from them. The analysis will be used to shed light on possible religious guidelines for transactions, including concepts such as fairness, transparency, and accountability. The historical context and practices of commerce in the early Islamic period will be addressed, as well as statement disparaging the use of religion for personal gain. In addition, the contemporary relevance of the relationship between these ethical principles and trade, money, and commercialization of religion in Islam will be discussed. Challenges and opportunities arising from possible principles of action, including their impact on social, cultural, and economic dynamics, will also be highlighted. The chapter will conclude by asking about the need for a differentiated and emphatic consideration of this issue in Muslim-majority societies. For this purpose, situational references will be analyzed and critically reflected upon. The results of this research will ideally contribute to the academic discussion about the question of trade and profit in Islam as well as show the complexity and sensitivity of some underlying issues in the contemporary context.