Quran and Social Sciences

Quran and Social Sciences

Self-Belief and the Development of the Muslim Individual, with Emphasis on the Economic Dimension: A Qur’anic Perspective

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Bagher Hesamiazizi
Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/arq.2026.247829
Abstract
This study examines self-belief as a fundamental component in the formation of a balanced personality and the comprehensive development of the human being. The Holy Qur’an presents the human being as endowed with intrinsic dignity, free will, and God-given capacities and as capable of pursuing the path of perfection and advancement through faith, trust in God, and awareness of his or her inner potential. Within this framework, self-belief is not merely a psychological trait; rather, it is a reality grounded in a monotheistic worldview that guides individual and social conduct, particularly in the economic sphere. The study aims to elucidate the status of self-belief in the development of the Islamic individual, with particular emphasis on its economic dimension, from the perspective of the Holy Qur’an. Employing a descriptive-analytical method, the research draws on Qur’anic verses, authoritative exegetical works, and contemporary scholarly sources. The findings indicate that Qur’anic self-belief—grounded in faith in God, recognition of human dignity, awareness of divine vicegerency, and confidence in God-given abilities—contributes to the formation of an active, responsible, and industrious personality. Rather than embracing passivity and dependence, such an individual engages in work and production and makes proper use of available talents and resources. From a Qur’anic perspective, self-belief is inseparably connected with trust in God. While remaining conscious of personal limitations, the believer draws upon God-given capacities in pursuit of legitimate goals. In the economic sphere, Qur’anic self-belief produces several significant effects: it strengthens commitment to productive work and discourages passive dependence; safeguards human dignity and prevents economic humiliation; reinforces social responsibility through charitable giving, cooperation, and participation; and redirects economic conduct from narrow self-interest toward justice, poverty alleviation, and the reduction of inequality. Self-belief therefore not only motivates effective economic activity but also strengthens the ethical and social foundations of economic life. Accordingly, Qur’anic self-belief offers a model of the “Islamic economic agent”—an individual who combines self-confidence and independence with economic conduct governed by servitude to God, justice, and service to society. The development of the Muslim individual is realized through the interrelationship of faith, dignity, endeavor, and responsibility. Within the Qur’anic framework, self-belief constitutes both an educational and a civilizational principle that guides human beings toward perfection and a faith-centered way of life.
Keywords
Self-belief
Holy Qur&‌‌‌rsquo
an
Economic development
Muslim individual
Subjects
The Holy Qurʾan
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  • Receive Date 09 May 2026
  • Revise Date 05 June 2026
  • Accept Date 24 July 2026