Integrity is derived linguistically from the Latin term integer, which ignifies completeness and wholeness. Integrity is the concept of consistency between activities, values, techniques, measurements, principles, expectations, and results. Barbara Killinger seeks to define integrity as a personal decision, an unwavering and constant commitment to upholding moral, ethical, spiritual, and aesthetic beliefs and ideals.
In describing respectable and principled human action, it has retained these two concepts, namely fullness and wholeness. A person with high integrity has a consistent character that demonstrates honesty and an unwavering commitment to truthfulness and ethical principles. He clings to these beliefs out of free will and self-respect, without fear of retribution or expectation of reward.
People of integrity are guided by a set of principles that uphold high standards of conduct consistently. Integrity is characterized by virtues like compassion, honesty, loyalty, and respect. These traits become valuable personal
and professional assets that individuals bring to work daily.
Business success relies heavily on the integrity of its employees. When integrity is lacking, companies suffer from damaged reputations and loss of both consumers and skilled workers. Many organizations now emphasize ethics and integrity training to maintain high standards.
success of a business depends on the integrity of its employees. As numerous observers have noted, when a company’s reputation is tarnished, it suffers a devastating loss of both consumers and skilled workers. Providing ethics and integrity training, organisations of all types increasingly adopt a proactive approach to problem prevention.
In addition to qualifications and talents, every individual, and especially Muslims, must also possess the character trait of integrity to be successful in any endeavour. When no one sees your actions, but you still do the correct thing, this might be a representation of integrity.
The lack of integrity and trust will affect not only the individual but also the organisation’s performance and reputation. It is like a ruler in our hearts, how we measure good and wrong.In Islam, this concept of integrity can also be expressed with the nature of trust and itqan (earnest). In the Qur’an, Allah SWT described among the attributes of believers that they exercise trust and keep their promises.
Successful indeed are the believers (Surah Al-Mu’minoon: Verse 1)
Integrity is occasionally translated into Arabic as it combines the consistency and ethical conduct. According to Islam, moral and consistent behaviour is a natural consequence illustrious Qur’an advocates for this faith-based consistency. As an example, the fifteenth verse of Surat Ashurah. Therefore, adhere firmly to the true course. And Verse number 30 in Surat Fussilat, Allah praises people who claim trust in Him and consistently display it via their words and deeds. Numerous sayings in the Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH) affirm this spiritual conviction that leads to unshakable moral conduct.
Allah praises people who claim trust in Him and consistently display it via their words and deeds. Numerous sayings in the Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH) affirm this spiritual conviction that leads to unshakable moral conduct.
contemporary parlance, many Companions were revered for their honesty. Sayyidatina Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) had never consumed alcohol before or after his conversion to Islam.Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) was known for his honesty and righteousness
Uthman ibn Madun (may Allah be pleased with him) is another example of this philosophy, as he rejected the intake of alcoholic beverages before Islam prohibited this practice. He then clarified, “I do not consume what consumes my thoughts.” Since he has a high natural, ethical standard and regard for himself, he abstained
from drunkenness.
Those who already value honesty and ethical behavior will find that Islam strengthens these qualities, deepening their spiritual integrity. The hadith serves to highlight that Islam does not change a person’s nature, but rather elevates and perfects their inherent goodness, making them more virtuous and faithful.
Therefore, integrity and honesty can exist before someone becomes Muslim, but these virtues are enhanced and refined by faith in Allah, leading to spiritual growth and stronger ethical conduct as a Muslim.
The Prophet (PBUH) thus illustrates that a person’s natural virtues, like precious metals, are preserved and improved through Islam. When these people accept faith in Allah, their pre-existing virtues are further elevated and refined, making them even better Muslims.
Therefore, in Islam, integrity can only be found on something other than faith in Allah. Those who exhibit the virtue of honesty prior to becoming Muslims will, if they have faith in Allah, become better Muslims. This is demonstrated by a famous hadith in which the Prophet (PBUH) compares the ethical nature of humanity to that of metals. Those who value Islam and possess precious metals like gold and silver will continue to be superior Muslims. Thus, in this hadith, the Prophet (PBUH) describes how converting to Islam might strengthen a person’s spiritual honesty and integrity.
This comparison emphasizes that the process of converting to Islam doesn’t erase a person’s prior ethical foundation; instead, it builds upon it. Faith acts as a catalyst, deepening their spiritual integrity and guiding them toward a more principled life.
In conclusion, the characteristic of a successful person is integrity, and a high level of integrity will indirectly contribute to the success of an organization. When individuals consistently demonstrate integrity, they foster an environment of trust and accountability, encouraging collaboration and ethical behavior among colleagues.
This creates a strong organizational culture where employees feel valued and motivated to perform at their best.
Moreover, organizations that prioritize integrity tend to attract and retain talent. Employees are more motivated and engaged when they feel they are part of a principled organization that values ethical behavior.
This sense of belonging can lead to higher morale and productivity, as team members are inspired to contribute their best work.
When people exhibit high levels of integrity, it leads to a culture of trust, respect, and accountability within the workplace. This trust allows team members to collaborate more effectively, knowing they can rely on one another to uphold ethical standards and follow through on commitments. An environment rooted in integrity encourages open communication and transparency, which can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. Employees are more likely to feel safe voicing their ideas and concerns, leading to innovative solutions and improved problem-solving. Integrity is a vital ingredient for individual and organizational success. It nurtures trust, accountability, and collaboration, while also enhancing employee engagement and external relationships. By prioritizing integrity, organizations can cultivate a thriving workplace culture that not only drives performance but also positions them for sustainable growth and success in the long run.
