Cooperatives are about more than economic gain, argues Shaikh Muhammad Usman Gani, senior joint secretary general of the Bangladesh National Imam Society and assistant professor at the Ahsania Institute of Sufism. Writing in Prothom Alo, he says self-reliance, the habit of saving, jobs, curbing middlemen and social security are also their purpose.
He cites Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 2, on helping one another in righteousness and piety, as the foundation of the idea. Consultation, voluntary work and thrift, in his view, are what make a cooperative strong.
As a historical example he points to Hilf al-Fudul, the league the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) joined as a young man, which aimed to end injustice and discrimination, protect the lives and dignity of residents and visitors, and bring harmony between tribes.
On national unity, he draws on Surah Al-Imran, verse 103, and Surah Al-Anfal, verse 46, warning against division. He also cites the hadith in Bukhari and Muslim that likens believers to a single body.
He concludes that worth is measured by faith, deeds and piety rather than lineage or wealth, and that a caring society comes from rising above self-interest through cooperation and justice. The views expressed are the writer's own.
Source: Prothom Alo
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