Spouses and Effective Managers

Spouses and Effective Managers:

An Examination of Religious Management Principles, Educational Leadership, and Associated Values

Bibliographic Information:

• Author: Mohammad Reza Niknam (b. 1327)
• Title: Spouses and Effective Managers: An Examination of Religious Management Principles, Educational Leadership, and Associated Values / Mohammad Reza Niknam.
• Publisher: Islamshahr: Sobhe Farda Publications, 2013.
• Physical Description: 55 pages; 19.5 x 9.5 cm.
• Series: Collected Works; 144.
• ISBN: 978-600-6435-45-9.
• National Bibliography Number: 2981374.

Foreword

This book initially consists of two lectures delivered to a group of military managers on 14th and 15th of Ordibehesht 1385 (May 2006) on the topic of management in the Islamic religious system, where several principles of management were discussed.

In these lectures, it is stated that if you cannot manage your own life, it is unlikely you can be an effective manager in your professional environment. Additionally, a successful manager is one who views their personal life as a priority, making work secondary, rather than treating work as paramount and family life as subordinate.

The two concluding lectures are the result of a meeting held on 5th of Khordad 1387 (May 2008) with a group of respected educators, and the other was a speech delivered to a group of female managers and instructors on 15th of Esfand 1388 (March 2009).

And the last words are: “Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.”

Lecture 1: Principles of Religious Management

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. “Indeed, you have in the Messenger of Allah an excellent example for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day, and who remembers Allah often.” (Quran 33:21)

In the two sessions we have with you, I will present some of the principles of religious management. The verse I have recited explains the nature of religious management. In this session, I will outline one of the principles of management, which is: “If you cannot manage your own life, it is impossible to be a successful manager in your workplace.” In the next session, I will explain another principle outlined in this verse.

One of the principles of management is that a manager should not have issues in the fundamental aspects of life and household management. These household problems can be divided into two categories: one is fundamental and compulsory, which originates beyond our control, stemming from historical, geographical, legal, or governmental factors. Addressing these requires large-scale management strategies by authorities and societal awareness. These issues are unavoidable and must be tolerated. The second category involves problems caused by poor management, which can be controlled.

We believe that social management stems from proper management of family life, and a person who cannot live a healthy life in their own household cannot be a successful manager. In this lecture, I will explain this in detail.

Our mundane life is always filled with problems and challenges, and no one is free from them. These problems may stem from internal or external factors. Everyone is in constant motion, and even if someone falls behind, they must accelerate their pace to catch up. All movements in nature are balanced, and any imbalance causes delays or deviation, but it never leads to a complete standstill. In other words, everyone is moving, either backward or forward. To understand human lives in such an environment, one must take a psychoanalytic approach, evaluate the structure of each life, and understand the highs and lows of the lives of those under one’s management.

One of the most significant milestones in anyone’s life, which can be a cause of either success or failure, is “marriage” and the establishment of a shared life. Most marriages in Iran, sociologically speaking, lack a healthy and correct foundation. We live in a society where marriages are based on social traditions rather than religious principles. For instance, parents tell their children, “You are grown now, and you must get married.” Growing up is generally associated with marriage, but not everyone who has reached a certain age is ready for marriage. Many of our marriages do not meet the necessary standards, and the problems that arise from this issue are rooted in our society and history. Solving them requires large-scale cultural development, which is not something an individual can address.

In examining these manageable individual issues, nothing should be taken lightly, and even the smallest problem in a life must be given attention. Life moves rapidly today, and even a minor slowdown can lead to the collapse of a life. A historical example of this can be seen in the story of Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar, who once stated that he had underestimated the enemy twice in his life, and both times he was defeated. This shows that life is serious, and we should not overlook even the smallest issues, as they can lead to significant setbacks.

The first principle in dealing with major problems is not to overlook the smaller problems. Additionally, when addressing a problem, one should not indulge in wishful thinking. Many Western psychologists encourage patients to practice “wishful thinking” in the belief that it will ease their distress. However, wishful thinking only has a limited effect and does not change reality. It is crucial to face problems with realism and accept them as they are. We live in an environment full of challenges, and accepting this truth helps build resilience. One should not limit oneself in the face of problems but rather become resilient, like a canary trapped in a cage that, if freed, would return to the world it knows.

In management, especially when handling relationships with subordinates, it is essential to consider personal challenges that may affect someone’s behavior. A manager should be mindful of such personal issues to engage in effective interactions with their team. Moreover, these issues often reflect broader societal challenges, and addressing them requires a comprehensive cultural approach.

This philosophy of management is deeply embedded in Islamic teachings, particularly as exemplified by figures like Imam Ali, who balanced strong leadership with humility and care for his family. Effective management involves not letting external work pressures affect home life, maintaining harmony, and showing compassion within the family unit.

By focusing on these principles, a manager can ensure both personal and professional success.

Lecture 1: Regarding the Family and Professionalism of the Believer

In the previous session, we discussed some principles of religious management and stated that a successful manager is one who does not face issues at home. We argued that if you cannot manage your personal life, you will not be successful in managing your workplace either. We believe that social management is a result of proper family management, healthy living, and a good livelihood. If someone cannot lead a healthy life at home, they cannot be a successful manager. The home and family are the foundation of healthy management.

Today, following up on this discussion, I will explain the relevant verse. This blessed verse is from Surah Al-Ahzab, where it states that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the best example for you. However, this is the case only if three conditions are met: firstly, faith in God and hope in Him; secondly, belief in the Day of Judgement and the afterlife; and thirdly, remembrance of God frequently.

This verse highlights the difference between religious management and secular management, as well as the distinction between spiritual management and tactical management. In other words, the structure of thought and action, as well as the perspective and actions of a Muslim manager, differ from those of a non-Muslim manager. A Muslim cannot acquire management knowledge from books written by non-Muslims or even Muslims who lack religious insight.

As a Muslim manager, you can model your management after the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) only if you possess three characteristics: the first being that the manager must be dependent on God, and their focus and hope must lie in Him. Naturally, a manager’s competence is best tested in times of crisis. A successful manager, who is reliant on God, will not falter, even if they are walking towards the gallows. They will continue to manage with conviction. A manager without hope, however, becomes susceptible to gossip and backstabbing, and may see their life as a mirage, falling into weakness.

The second characteristic of a Muslim manager is belief in the Day of Judgement, knowing that every action in this world will be answered for in the Hereafter. Religious management does not allow for autonomy, unlike secular management, where subordinates cannot question the higher authority and must simply carry out orders. However, in the Islamic system, even a judge can be questioned, though they are presumed to be fair and just. In Islam, everyone is accountable to God for their actions.

The third characteristic is that the manager should frequently remember God, as mentioned in the verse, “And remember God frequently.” A Muslim manager’s life should be centered around the remembrance of God, both at home and in the workplace, taking the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as their ideal.

Lecture 2: Theism, Future Belief, and Divine Remembrance

In the previous session, we discussed the principles of religious management, stating that a successful manager is one who does not face issues at home, and we emphasized that a healthy family environment is essential for successful management. Today, I will elaborate on the verse from Surah Al-Ahzab that describes the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as a model for those who meet three conditions: faith in God, belief in the Day of Judgement, and frequent remembrance of God.

This verse sets forth the difference between religious and secular management, showing that a Muslim manager must operate with a clear reliance on God, knowing that their actions are accountable in the Hereafter. In Islamic management, God is the ultimate guide, and the manager’s actions are always in alignment with divine will. Such a manager remains steadfast in times of crisis, knowing that while they have their role to play, God’s will is ultimately what prevails.

Lecture 3: Teaching; Navigating the Path in a Confused World

In this lecture, we turn our attention to teaching as a means of guidance. The verse from Surah Al-Mulk (22) asks, “Is the one who walks on his face more guided, or the one who walks upright on a straight path?” This verse contrasts two types of movement: one aimless and based on the senses, and the other intentional, directed by intellect and divine guidance. The latter represents the path of those who follow the teachings of the prophets, while the former refers to those who are lost, lacking purpose.

Human beings, unlike animals, can use reason and intellect to navigate the world. However, those who are devoid of a guiding belief system, such as in the case of many individuals in Western societies, become lost and confused. Their reliance on sensory experiences and feelings without a deeper understanding often leads to psychological struggles and existential uncertainty. It is through faith that humans find clarity and direction, avoiding the disorienting path of aimlessness.

Lecture 4: Gift-Oriented System, Method-Oriented System

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, and with His help, for indeed He is the best supporter and helper. Praise and thanks be to Allah, and blessings upon the noblest Prophet and his pure family. Allah, the Almighty, says in His clear Book: “And whosoever is protected from the greed of their soul, it is they who will be successful” (Qur’an, Surah Hashr, 59:9).

I warmly welcome all of you, dear ones, who have come to the city of the noble Lady Fatimah Ma’soomah (peace be upon her). May Allah bless you with joy, happiness, and increased spiritual rewards during your stay near her shrine.

The noble verse that was read in your presence states: “And whosoever is protected from the greed of their soul, it is they who will be successful.” This verse emphasizes that those who safeguard themselves from greed, selfishness, and the desire for worldly possessions are truly the successful ones in this world and the next.

Our times are filled with excess and heedlessness, and our lives are short. The Qur’an advises us to prioritize our spiritual well-being, minimize indulgence in worldly pleasures, and avoid selfishness and greed. Instead, we should focus on thought, culture, knowledge, and awareness, which bring true prosperity and lasting success. This is especially important for you, dear sisters, who work in educational and cultural centers, as you serve as role models for your students. The children learn best from you, and you have the unique opportunity to guide them toward both worldly health and spiritual success.

Focusing on superficial, everyday matters consumes time without offering any lasting benefit. Indeed, “And whosoever is protected from the greed of their soul, it is they who will be successful.” Those who are mindful of the divine commandments, who observe and follow them, are the truly successful ones. In educational settings, we must encourage children to focus on important matters and help them divert their attention from fleeting worldly concerns. We must teach them a purposeful way of life, faith-based principles, and social insight, guiding them away from the distractions of this world and the things that society does not need.

You must teach each child how to fish, rather than giving them a fish, and equip them with life skills, not just passively provide for them. We must be prepared for each class, approach it with fresh knowledge, and avoid repetition and outdated discussions. In schools, we should present ideas that are fresh, precise, scientific, modern, and logical. It is important not to underestimate the intellectual capacity of children.

In your speech, avoid speaking out of whim or being illogical, repetitive, or outdated, as this can cause children to become disillusioned with you and the culture you represent. Be fair, friendly, and kind toward the children, and avoid harshness and sharpness in your demeanor. It is essential not to assume that children are unlearned or unaware. Today’s children are very intelligent, and they closely observe your appearance and behavior, judging you accordingly.

Allocate some of your time at home to your work, so that you do not become repetitive and outdated in the eyes of the children. Keep their interest in you and in school alive. Be forward-thinking and consider the children entrusted to you, filling their time with meaningful content. Each child is a trust from God, and it is your responsibility to maintain their spirits in a fresh, joyful state. Do not view teaching as merely a job; treat the children with dignity and wisdom, so that they see you as a refuge and share their personal issues with you, including those they might face at home. Your students should come to trust and love you, not feel alienated or misguided by you.

Treat each student as you would your own child, offering them the same level of attention and affection. For your own health, recite a prayer of peace upon the Prophet and his family: “Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ajil farajuhum.” If you have any questions, I am at your service.

Question: In our educational system, we lack a book that provides our generation and our children with a proper understanding of the great religious scholars of their time. This is particularly felt at the elementary level for girls who reach puberty at the age of nine, and at the secondary level for boys at fifteen. It is necessary to create such a book to educate both the children and their instructors, so that they are informed about selecting their religious authority (mujtahid). For example, many of us knew little about you and are not properly informed about this matter.

Answer: You are correct in your observation. However, our society is growing, and communication has expanded greatly. Nowadays, you can access the websites of religious authorities and scholars through the internet. Most families have computers and internet access, and all religious scholars have their own virtual platforms, where they share their books and teachings. By visiting and comparing these sites, you can choose your religious authority. Teachers and educators provide general guidance, and students can visit these websites with their parents to freely explore and make their own choices. Today’s children are very knowledgeable, and schools should support them by providing the tools and training to use computers and the internet effectively. They should be encouraged toward religious matters, but it is not permissible to punish or coerce them for obligations they are not yet responsible for. Instead, in these years before they reach religious maturity, they should be gently guided and encouraged, so they do not develop aversion or disengagement from their faith.

Question: In some regions, memorizing the Qur’an is very common, and children are pressured into doing so. I have personally witnessed parents sending their five or six-year-old children to memorize the Qur’an, but later, when they grow older, they abandon it entirely.

Answer: Yes, we do not advocate for the widespread promotion of memorizing the Qur’an in such a manner. Only a select few should be encouraged to memorize the Qur’an for international competitions. Children should not be forced to memorize the Qur’an or Hadith. Educators should aim to help children understand, rather than exhaust them with memorization. We must give children a program that encourages them to think for themselves. Our culture is one of understanding, not memorization.

Question: It is said that God is omnipotent. Is death also possible for God? Can God die, or is He incapable of it?

Answer: We say that God is indeed omnipotent, and His power is absolute. However, certain things are inherently impossible and fall outside the scope of anyone’s power. These are known as “impossibilities.” Death for God is one of these impossibilities, as it does not belong to the realm of possibility. It would be like asking why two plus two does not equal three—such a statement is inherently incorrect. Similarly, it is not correct to say that God cannot decree His own death. Instead, it is more accurate to say that the death of God is impossible and cannot occur, for a being who is eternal and beyond time cannot experience death.

Question: As teachers, we sometimes find ourselves confused between the opinions of families, students, and our superiors. We cannot afford to offend our superiors, ignore the needs of the children, or upset the parents.

Answer: Thankfully, the education system now holds meetings with parents, where both educators and parents are present. Such issues should be addressed in these meetings, with mutual respect for the opinions of all parties involved. There should be no monopolization of the conversation. These meetings should be conducted in a manner that encourages parents to participate freely. They should not turn into fundraisers for the school. The education system is free, and any financial issues should be handled elsewhere. In a civil society, work should be carried out through consultation, with respect for the opinions of both parents and students. Decisions can be made through a fair process, such as voting, to ensure that the dignity of all parties is maintained.

May you all be successful and blessed with a prosperous end. Lady Fatimah Ma’soomah (peace be upon her) is the door to the fulfillment of needs. May she grant you all your wishes. Please recite a prayer of peace: “Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ala Muhammad.”