[Extract from Preface of Islam and Business Ethics by Dr S M Hasanuzzaman,
published by the Institute of Islamic Banking and Insurance, London, UK 2003]

According to the Qur'an, it is the duty of all Muslims to enjoin the maintaining of good conduct and to forbid indulgence in misconduct, just as it was the duty of the People of the Book before them. The official organisation that was entrusted with the task of enjoining good and forbidding evil was the hisba (lit, accountability) headed by a muhtasib (monitor or ombudsman). Its function was to encourage and help people to observe Islamic tenets and rituals, and, in particular, to ensure and facilitate a healthy environment in public places, mainly shopping centres. In the early days this department was supposed to look after quality control, professional honesty and reliability, hygiene and sanitation, professional competence, control of intermediaries, decency and good manners, the flow of traffic and other miscellaneous functions. This department set out standards of ideal service and workmanship for different trades and professions. It was also supposed to protect the rights of service providers, traders, craftsmen, customers and visitors. In addition to these duties, it was also supposed to ensure efficient service by some public utility projects.


Source : islamic-banking.com