Prayer TimesIn our Sharia, interest-based loans (credit) are prohibited. Since they involve paying extra money, they are categorically considered haram. This prohibition is clearly stated in the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ), and all scholars unanimously agree on its prohibition.
The Qur'an says: "Allah has permitted trade and forbidden usury (riba)."
In a hadith narrated by Jabir (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Allah has cursed the one who consumes riba, the one who pays it, the one who writes the contract, and the two witnesses to it," and he said, "They are all equal in sin."
Therefore, unless there is a dire necessity, a Muslim should avoid any dealings involving interest. If someone has unknowingly taken such a loan, they must sincerely repent to Allah.
Provision (rizq) is from Allah. Just as a person seeks their sustenance, sustenance also seeks its owner. Wherever a person may be, their provision will find them just as death finds them. In a hadith narrated by Jabir ibn Abdullah, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"O people! Seek your provision in a good manner. For no soul will depart this world until it has received its full provision. Fear Allah and seek provision in a lawful way. Take what is halal and leave what is haram."
In summary, as stated in the Qur'an and hadith, taking a loan with interest is a sinful act. A person's provision is written for them even before they are born, while still in their mother's womb. Therefore, in seeking their sustenance, a Muslim should always pursue lawful means in accordance with Sharia.
Medet Kurmashuly
"Iman" magazine, No. 7, 2024
This content was drafted with AI assistance and reviewed by an editor.