One day a labourer came to Imam Sadeq (AS) and said: I cannot work with my hands, I also do not know about the methods of trade and I am poor and needy. Imam Sadeq (AS) replied: Work with your head to stay free of want from other people, be aware that the prophet of Allah (SWT) used to carry stones on his shoulders and moved them to his garden. Abu Amr narrated: I saw Imam Sadeq (AS) whilst wearing work clothes and working with a spade in a garden and drops of sweat were pouring from his neck. I told Imam (AS): Please give me the spade so that instead of you I can work in the garden. Imam Sadeq (AS) replied: Indeed, I like it when human being tries hard under the sun to earn sustenance [1].
[1] Wasaelul Shia, Vol. 12, page 23.
source : Shafaqna
