It is a fact that Muslim-majority countries have the status of underdeveloped or developing countries. This situation can be handled from many aspects, such as the political stability of the country, its economic development, the education system, its legal administration, and social unity among individuals.
There is no relationship between Muslims’ adherence to the religion of Islam and the underdevelopment or development of these countries. Because the religion of Islam states that a Muslim should be hardworking, determined [1], and hopeful [2]: “To men is allotted what they earn, and to women what they earn. Rather, ask Allah for His bounties. Surely Allah has perfect knowledge of all things.” [3]
According to the religion of Islam, a person will earn as much as he strives: “And that each person will only have what they endeavored towards.” [4] Also, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) expresses that he sought refuge in Allah from laziness. [5] It should also be added that the world is the field of the Hereafter in Islam.[6]
Humans want to live life to the fullest for the Hereafter’s existence because they will gain awards in the Hereafter due to their preference in this world. When this situation is added to the fact that people do not know when they will die, Muslims see every moment they live as an opportunity. In other words, faith encourages the Muslim to be diligent: “No soul burdened with sin will bear the burden of another. And that each person will only have what they endeavored towards. And that the outcome of their endeavors will be seen in their record. Then they will be fully rewarded. And that to your Lord alone is the ultimate return of all things.” [7]
The Islamic religion, in particular the Holy Qur’an, also encourages people to learn new knowledge. “Do you not mind?”, which is frequently repeated in the Qur’an. “Don’t you think?” The verses lead people to think and question.[8]
The first verse revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is “Read!” [9] According to the religion of Islam, if a Muslim leaves valuable works for his successor, rewards will continue to be written for him even after he dies.[10] It is obligatory (compulsory) for every Muslim, male or female, to acquire knowledge in this religion.[11]
As you can see, Islam attaches great importance to work and science. Therefore, the backwardness of countries where Muslims are the majority is not related to the religion they believe in.
[1] Al-i Imraan, 186.
[2] Yusuf, 87.
[3] An-Nisaa, 32.
[4] An-Najm, 39.
[5] Bukhari, Jihad, 25, 74; Muslim, Daawat, 48, 52.
[6] Aclûnî, Keşfu’l-Hafa, I/412.
[7] An-Najm, 38- 42.
[8]Al – An’aam, 50; An-Nahl, 17; Hud, 24.
[9] Al-Alaq, 1.
[10]Tirmizî, Ahkâm 36.
[11] Beyhakî, Şuabu’l-İman-Beyrut, 1410, 2/253.