How Do I Deal with Being Undermined at Work?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
I have a coworker who often asks for my input but then disregards it. Recently, he replaced my work with his own version without acknowledging my contribution. How should I handle this situation in a manner pleasing to Allah?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.
May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.
Workplace conflicts, as with conflicts in general, should be approached with wisdom, professionalism, and a principled commitment to justice, as enshrined in Sacred Law. This is a reflection of true faith and moral excellence (ihsan).
Allah (Most High) says:
“Repel evil with that which is better. Then behold! The one between whom and you there was enmity will become as though he was a devoted friend.” [Quran, 41:34]
Attempt the following:
- Uphold Professional Excellence: Keep working diligently, with sincerity and excellence, and ultimately, to seek the pleasure of Allah Most High.
- Engage with Dignity: If your coworker’s actions have caused harm or disregard, approach them respectfully and express your concerns with clarity, calmness, and wisdom.
- Pursue Mediation if Needed: If you can’t resolve personal disputes on your own, use the usual protocol, such as a supervisor or human resources, to restore fairness and understanding.
- Embody Patience and Forgiveness: Take inspiration from the noble example of the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace), who consistently responded to wrongdoing with patience, forbearance, and mercy, when suitable.
- Assert Your Rights Within Ethical Boundaries: While Islam encourages patience, it also recognizes the right to defend oneself against injustice. You may seek legitimate and dignified means to protect your professional contributions and rights.
By handling the situation with wisdom, you will uphold the beautiful Sunna, and this may positively influence your coworker’s behavior.
I pray this is of benefit and that Allah guides us all.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town. He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.
