Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon
The forgotten hands that shape societies
Throughout history, no civilization has risen without the tireless contribution of its labor class. From the majestic pyramids of Egypt to the towering minarets of Islamic Spain, from the enduring Great Wall of China to the awe-inspiring Masjid-e-Qurtuba, behind every architectural wonder and infrastructural milestone were the calloused, dust-covered hands of dedicated workers, craftsmen, and artisans. These unsung heroes, though nameless in the pages of history, were the very lifeblood of their societies, transforming grand visions into enduring legacies.
Among such timeless wonders, Masjid-e-Qurtuba (the Mosque of Cordoba) stands as a living testament to the unyielding dedication of those forgotten hands. Its intricate arches, delicate columns, and unmatched architectural harmony echo the spirit of sincere, faith-driven labor. It is no surprise that Allama Iqbal, in his celebrated poem Masjid-e-Qurtuba, immortalized this symbol of human perseverance and divine inspiration, reminding us of the eternal value of pure and purposeful effort:
Hai Magar Iss Naqsh Mein Rang-E-Sabaat-E-Dawam
Jis Ko Kiya Ho Kisi Mard-E-Khuda Ne Tamam
Yet in this very scenario indelible is the stamp of permanence
On the deeds of the good and godly.
Through these lines, Iqbal conveys a profound message: while dynasties collapse, thrones shatter, and rulers fade into obscurity, the work born of sincerity, passion, and God-conscious purpose lives on. It outlasts mortality because it carries within it a divine spark — a reflection of the eternal.
This timeless wisdom applies not only to monumental structures but to the very foundation of society. Communities thrive not solely on the philosophies of thinkers or the decrees of rulers, but on the honesty, sweat, and skill of those who, without fanfare or expectation of reward, shape the material and moral fabric of their world. It is the laborer’s hammer, the artisan’s chisel, the farmer’s plough, and the mason’s trowel that quietly, day after day, build civilizations.
Yet, tragically, modern societies have grown increasingly indifferent to these unsung builders of progress. As automation, consumerism, and materialism dominate contemporary life, the dignity of honest labor is often overlooked, and the ethical responsibility towards workers neglected. It is essential for any progressive nation to rekindle a culture of gratitude and respect for those who serve with their hands, ensuring their rights, welfare, and rightful recognition.
Iqbal’s verses are not mere nostalgia — they are a wake-up call. They urge us to preserve the sanctity of sincere labor, to honor the unnamed hands whose silent sacrifices hold up the pillars of society. For it is in cherishing these forgotten hands that civilizations secure their moral compass and ensure their rightful place in the annals of history.
Let us remember, history may record the names of kings and philosophers, but it is the sweat of countless ordinary men and women that keeps the wheels of civilization turning.
Yet today, while technological advancements surge ahead and global economies expand, a silent but significant erosion threatens the backbone of our communities — the diminishing culture of professional ethics and responsibility in the labor sector. From carpentry to masonry, plumbing to electrical work, a growing wave of negligence and dishonesty is undermining the credibility of these once-honorable professions. And this is not just a statistic or social commentary — it’s a reality I recently experienced firsthand.
Invisible pillars of progress — Now in crisis
Laborers and craftsmen are the unsung heroes of our daily lives. They mend our homes, furnish our workplaces, and keep the essential machinery of life running smoothly. It is through their humble yet invaluable toil that structures stand, fields yield harvests, and industries flourish. And yet, a disturbing trend has begun to surface in many regions: a decline in professional discipline, work ethics, and a sincere sense of responsibility.
What was once a profession of pride and craftsmanship has, in many cases, become a transactional endeavor driven by quick profits, minimal effort, and a disregard for client trust. Tales of unprofessional conduct, carelessness, and dishonesty are becoming all too familiar — a concern that deserves urgent attention.
A personal Lesson: When trust meets betrayal
Like many homeowners, I recently envisioned redesigning my home with modern fittings and elegant cabinetry. Being a firm believer in supporting local talent, I chose to hire a carpenter from my own community. I sought not just a workman, but an artisan with craftsmanship in his fingers and integrity in his heart.
Initially, it seemed like a decision well made. The carpenter spoke with confidence, promised high standards, and began work with enthusiasm. The first day’s progress lifted my spirits. It appeared that sincerity and skill still existed locally. But by the second day, the tempo changed. Excuses multiplied, work slowed, and deadlines stretched. A six-day project dragged on for fifteen, despite my reminders and patience. The repeated reply was a dismissive: “Sir, this work takes time.” Out of respect for their labor, I paid them fairly — but left deeply disappointed, I decided to explore other options. Acting on a friend’s recommendation, I hired a seemingly professional team from outside the region, with the reassurance of a proper contract and timelines. Regrettably, history repeated itself. Absenteeism, sluggish work, and ultimately, an incomplete project left me once again betrayed and frustrated.
In a final act of faith, I approached another local team, hoping to find what I sought. But this time, what turned up were workers lacking even basic skills and professionalism. Fearing more damage and delays, I paid them respectfully for their time and asked them to leave.
The bitter truth: Skill without sincerity is hollow
These repeated disappointments led me to a sobering realization: while we rightfully speak of respecting labor, we seldom confront the uncomfortable reality of declining professional ethics in this sector. Respect for labor must be mutual. It should be matched by honesty, punctuality, and responsibility on the part of those who earn their living through it.
The tragedy doesn’t lie in the absence of talent — our land is rich with gifted hands. The real crisis is the erosion of sincerity, integrity, and pride in one’s work. Many skilled workers today prioritize immediate gains over building lasting reputations. The result is a generation of clients hesitant to trust, and a market plagued by mediocrity.
A call for reform: Beyond technical skills
This isn’t merely a personal grievance — it reflects a widespread societal issue that demands immediate action. We need structured vocational training programs that go beyond technical skills and actively instill professional ethics, discipline, and a sense of responsibility. Government bodies, NGOs, and private institutions must realize that skill development is incomplete without moral and ethical education.
A prosperous society cannot be built on lazy hands and dishonest hearts. The future of any nation relies not only on its thinkers, teachers, and policymakers but equally on the integrity and work ethic of its labor force. Until our craftsmen and workers realize the importance of character alongside competence — and until clients collectively demand ethical service along with quality — this cycle of mutual disappointment will persist.
A hope for the future
I continue my search for an honest, skilled craftsman — someone who values their craft as a trust, honors deadlines, and takes pride in every task, however small. If you know such a person, let them know there’s someone waiting to recognize and reward their sincerity.
But beyond my personal quest, this is a collective responsibility. As a society, we must raise our standards of labor ethics and accountability. Let us revive the lost culture of trust, punctuality, and hard work across every profession — from laborers to leaders.
A society flourishes when hands are diligent and hearts are honest. A culture built on sincerity and responsibility benefits not just individual clients but uplifts entire communities. After all, respect for labor is a social virtue — but without responsibility, it becomes an empty ritual.
(The author is a distinguished columnist, motivational speaker and can be reached at [email protected])
