Theorizing the Phenomenon of Work Engagement in Islam

Abstract

The conceptual development of “work engagement” is overly anchored in a Western-based understanding, neglecting the role of religion and its implications for one's work engagement. This lack of clear theorization results in difficulties facing efforts to enhance work engagement in Muslim-majority countries. A systematic review of recent studies related to work engagement and other engagement frameworks published during 2010–2020 was conducted to understand similarities and differences between Western and Islamic views of work engagement. Based on an analysis and synthesis of 52 selected articles, and drawing on Islamic teachings, we establish an operational definition of “Islamic work engagement.” Keywords: Islamic work engagement, The conceptual development, majority countries.