Mohamed, Ph.D
4 min readAug 10, 2023

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Here are some thoughts from Islam perspective 🏵️🏵️🏵️

Retirement from an Islamic perspective is a time when a person wraps up their work and moves on to the next chapter of their life. In Islam, retirement is not necessarily a prescribed activity, but it may be viewed as a natural progression in one's life. The concept of retirement can be seen as a time of relaxation and leisure after years of hard work and contributing to society.

Islam encourages individuals to seek a balance between their worldly pursuits and spiritual development. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of focusing on one's faith, family, and community. In retirement, individuals can focus on spiritual growth and strengthening their relationships with loved ones.

Retirement is also a time to give back to society and to contribute to charitable causes. Islam highly values acts of charity and generosity towards others. A retired person can use their wealth and free time to help those in need, be it through volunteering, donating to charitable organizations, or even supporting small local businesses. Additionally, retirees can pass on valuable knowledge, skills, and experiences to upcoming generations.

In Islam, one's retirement years should be a time to reflect on their past and prepare for the Hereafter. Retirees can use this time to review their life choices, seek forgiveness for their shortcomings, and make amends for any wrongs they may have committed. This introspection can also help retirees to prioritize their actions, empower them to serve those around them better, and ultimately, lead to a more fulfilling life.

Here are a few ideas for retirees from an Islamic perspective: 👇👇

1. Seek knowledge: Retirement is an excellent time to expand your knowledge and increase your faith. You could enroll in Islamic studies courses, attend lectures or webinars, or join a Quran study group. In this way, you can deepen your understanding of your faith, learn new skills, and engage with the community.

In the Quran God says: Allah will exalt in degree those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge" [Quran 58:11]. This verse stresses the importance of seeking knowledge and gaining wisdom as a way to increase one's status and position in the sight of Allah.

2. Volunteer your time: Retirement can bring ample time to volunteer for charitable causes. You could volunteer at local charities, religious organizations, or even lead a project to help vulnerable individuals and communities. Volunteering enables retirees to give back to society, provide inspiration to others, and serve a noble cause.

In the Quran God says: And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your own hands into destruction [by refraining]" [Quran 2:195]. This verse encourages Muslim believers to give in charity and do good deeds to earn Allah's pleasure.

3. Give financial assistance: Islam places great emphasis on giving charity, and retirees can utilize their wealth to help others. You could donate funds to local charities, support any cause you feel passionate about, or even provide financial assistance to less fortunate family members. Retirement offers an opportunity for retirees to use their funds to further good causes and earn rewards in the Hereafter.

Innthe Quran God (Allah) says: The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills" [Quran 2:261]. This verse emphasizes the rewards and benefits of giving in charity.

4. Write texts or memoirs: Writing is an effective medium to convey personal experiences and pass on valuable knowledge. You could write texts or memoirs that reflect your life experiences, conveying your personal journey and faith, offering guidance and inspiration to upcoming generations.

In the Quran God says: "And who is better in speech than one who invites to Allah and does righteousness and says, "Indeed, I am of the Muslims" [Quran 41:33]. This verse encourages people to use their words for the sake of God (Allah) and to spread the message of Islam.

5. Encourage the youth: Retirees have a wealth of knowledge based on their life experiences. They can use their life skills to encourage the youth to develop their confidence, financial literacy, career aspirations, and social skills. These sessions will serve to inspire and mentor the upcoming generations.

In the Quran God says: "And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, "My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small" [Quran 17:24]. This verse highlights the importance of showing empathy and kindness towards the youth and encouraging them to become strong.

In summary, retirement from an Islamic perspective provides several opportunities to grow personally, fulfill your spiritual aspirations, and serve your community and the faith. In this way, retirees can continue to contribute and make a positive impact long after they have retired. ⏭️⏩

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Mohamed, Ph.D
Mohamed, Ph.D

Written by Mohamed, Ph.D

University professor and author, delving into the worlds of Islamic studies, personal growth, and entrepreneurship to share insights and inspire others.

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