Abstract

Traditions reported in the hadith on the vicious or virtuous character of merchants and traders do not contradict one another, but instead convey a common theme, and that is: that the moral disposition of a merchant is the determining factor for one’s eternal salvation (or damnation). It is a simple and straightforward message, yet of the utmost gravity and consequence. Whereas an impious and profligate merchant is forewarned of the utmost punishment, a pious and virtuous merchant is promised the greatest of rewards. As much as the former is a strict caution against immoral market behavior, the latter is an active call to virtuous market conduct. The Prophet’s traditions are in no way a condemnation of markets or market activity, but a most profound summon to merchants to don their market behavior with the cloak of piety and virtue. Far from being censured, such virtuous markets are commended and encouraged.