A Sharia-Based Framework for Reward and Punishment: Ethical Integration in Contemporary Management Systems

Abstract

In contemporary management systems, the concepts of reward and punishment have predominantly been shaped by secular frameworks, emphasizing performance metrics and organizational goals. However, these paradigms often overlook the moral and ethical dimensions central to human behavior, particularly in Muslim-majority contexts. Addressing this gap, the integration of Sharia-based ethical constructs provides an alternative lens through which motivation and discipline may be understood and operationalized. This study aims to explore a theoretical and practical model that aligns reward and punishment mechanisms with Islamic ethical principles. Drawing from classical Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), prophetic traditions (sunnah), and modern management literature, the research constructs a conceptual framework that embodies both justice (‘adl) and benevolence (ihsan) within managerial processes. The framework integrates spiritual accountability with managerial accountability, offering a unique contribution to ethical management discourse. The research employs a qualitative method involving document analysis of classical Arabic texts, Indonesian scholarly works, and international journal articles. The findings demonstrate that a Sharia-compliant model is not only ethically robust but also practical in promoting employee integrity, organizational justice, and long-term productivity. This paper contributes to both Islamic management thought and global ethical management practices. The proposed framework facilitates value-driven governance and provides practical implications for institutions seeking ethical alignment in personnel management strategies.