Boycotting in Islam
One Form of Resistance and Ethical Consumption
In Islam, every action, whether individual or collective, is guided by principles of justice, charity, and ethics. Boycotting, as an act of resistance, solidarity, and loyalty to Islamic teachings, plays a key role in this dynamic. Throughout history, the Muslim community has used boycotting to protest against injustice and corruption while preserving Islamic values. In this article, we will explore the importance of boycotting in light of the teachings of the Holy Qur’an, authentic Hadiths, and the opinions of great scholars like Sheikh Uthaymin and Sheikh Al Albani. We will also highlight the importance of supporting Muslim businesses, such as Sahabamens, that contribute to ethical causes rather than wars or practices harmful to the community.
The Concept of Boycott in Islam: A Historical and Spiritual Practice
Boycotting has a long history in Islam, long before its modern application. Muslims have resorted to boycotts throughout history, such as the economic boycott against the Banu Hashim tribe in pre-Islamic Makkah, when the Quraysh attempted to pressure the Muslims and the Prophet's ﷺ family to abandon their faith.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself encouraged the community to use boycotting as a form of peaceful resistance. A Hadith narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim emphasizes the importance of supporting the oppressed and distancing oneself from those who harm the Muslim community or its values:
“If anyone sees an injustice, let him change it with his hand; if he cannot, let him change it with his tongue; if he cannot, let him change it with his heart. This is the weakest of faith.” (Muslim)
Boycotting, therefore, can be a form of peaceful struggle against injustice, a way not to support those who contribute to oppression, whether through products or services.
Boycotting and Consumption for the Service of the Muslim Community
It is essential to understand that boycotting is not just about refusing to consume certain products or services, but also about actively supporting businesses and brands that work for causes benefiting the Muslim community and humanity. By purchasing from Muslim businesses like Sahabamens, we are doing more than just buying a product; we are supporting Sadaqa projects (charitable donations) aimed at improving the lives of the most needy, rather than funding industries responsible for conflicts or unnecessary wars.
For example, Sahabamens donates a portion of its profits to Sadaqa projects, such as building wells, schools, mosques, and helping the needy around the world. Supporting responsible Muslim brands helps contribute to a better world, in line with Islamic teachings.
Sheikh Uthaymin’s Teachings on Boycotting
Sheikh Uthaymin emphasized the importance of distancing oneself from what is haram (forbidden) and avoiding actions and products that harm the Muslim community. In his teachings, he often addressed boycotting as a means of affirming Islamic values.
Sheikh Uthaymin explained that if a product or company is involved in haram practices, a Muslim must avoid financially supporting these activities. This aligns with the words of Prophet ﷺ in another Hadith:
“Whoever supports an unjust cause, Allah will distance him from His mercy and Paradise.” (Bukhari)
Thus, according to Sheikh Uthaymin, avoiding support for such businesses or actions is an act of obedience and a form of Islamic discipline.
Sheikh Al Albani’s Vision on Boycotting
Sheikh Al Albani, another respected scholar, also highlighted the importance of individual action to preserve the integrity of the Muslim community. He insisted that boycotting should not be seen as an isolated act, but as a means to express commitment to the principles of Islam.
In his fatwas, Sheikh Al Albani encouraged Muslims to boycott products and services from those who oppose Islam or support anti-Islamic causes. Boycotting thus becomes an expression of solidarity among Muslims and a way to protect their community from negative influences.
“We must be united in rejecting injustice and oppression, and sometimes this involves avoiding people or institutions that act against our principles.” (Sheikh Al Albani)
Conclusion: Boycotting as a Collective Responsibility
Boycotting, when applied with discernment and in accordance with Islamic principles, can be a powerful means of manifesting our disapproval of injustice, oppression, and immoral practices. It is not just an economic action but a spiritual one, aiming to preserve the integrity of the Muslim community and its values. As Muslims, we have a responsibility not to support causes that contradict our faith and principles.
By supporting brands like Sahabamens, which dedicates part of its profits to Sadaqa projects and supports ethical causes, we have the opportunity to make a real difference — not only by rejecting what is harmful but by contributing positively to projects that benefit humanity. Choosing to consume from Muslim businesses is an act of solidarity, but also a form of peaceful resistance against a global system that too often prioritizes war and division over peace and solidarity.
In a world where external influences seek to disrupt Islamic values, it is essential to make conscious decisions about where and how we spend our money. Boycotting, supported by the teachings of the Qur’an, Hadiths, and respected scholars like Sheikh Uthaymin and Sheikh Al Albani, remains a valid practice to defend our faith, our community, and promote justice, peace, and solidarity.
