The Relationship between Taqwa-Oriented Ramadan Fasting and Unethical Pro-organizational Behavior: The Moderating Role of Spiritual Intelligence

This study investigates the complex relationship between Taqwa-Oriented Ramadan Fasting (TORF) and unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPB), a paradoxical form of misconduct intended to benefit the organization. Based on Social Cognitive Theory, it was hypothesized that TORF reduces UPB and that this effect is moderated by spiritual intelligence (SI). Based on survey data from 263 employees attending graduate programs in a private university in Egypt, our findings confirm a significant negative relationship between TORF and UPB. Moreover, this relationship is amplified for individuals with higher levels of SI, which we propose functions as a valuable psychological resource that enhances ethical resilience. The results suggest that religious practices can serve as a protective factor against UPB, particularly when individuals possess high spiritual intelligence. This study contributes to the ethics and organizational behavior literature by highlighting the unique roles of religious rituals and personal spiritual resources as antecedents of ethical conduct. We provide practical implications for leaders and HR practitioners to foster a culture of integrity by supporting employees’ spiritual well-being.