Borrowing from a Bank

4-8-1999 | IslamWeb

Question:

I'm a Muslim and I've finished my studying and I'm looking for a job, but here in Morocco it's too difficult. so there is a possibility to get money from a bank with percent (riba) to have my own business, but as I know it's forbidden. I've asked other people and they told me that it's possible as I can't find work with a firm here in Morocco. So please tell me what is right and what is wrong.

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Answer:

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

If you know that Riba (usury and/or interest) is forbidden, then this is correct. You are not permitted under any circumstances to borrow money with Riba. The blessing which you want to achieve with this money is destroyed. Allaah Says (what means): {Allaah destroys interest and gives increase for charities. And Allaah does not like every sinning disbeliever.} [Quran 2:276]. Furthermore, it is reported that the Prophet said: "Allaah has cursed the one who consumes Ribaa (i.e. usury or interest), the one who gives it to others, the one who writes it down and the one who witnesses it." He said: "All of them are equal in sin." [Muslim]

Being cursed means being prevented from the Mercy of Allaah.

Therefore, you should fear Allaah, dear Brother, and do not start your business with something which incurs the wrath of Allaah. Allaah Says (what means): {O you who have believed, fear Allaah and give up what remains [due to you] of interest, if you should be believers. And if you do not, then be informed of a war [against you] from Allaah and His Messenger.} [Quran 2:278].

Finally, we ask Allaah to facilitate for you permissible means of sustenance and bless it for you.

Allaah Knows best.