Al-riba [usury/interest]

Al-riba (usury), or the practice of interest, is forbidden in Islam. The Prophet (PBUH) clearly indicated that any form of riba is worse than the commitment of 36 romantic affairs. If the donation, or Sadaqa, helps purify our income and adds a blessing, the riba has the opposite effect. The riba will never add profit to the money or blessing to our lives. In the Quran, after Allah spoke about the Sadaqa and charity, it was immediately followed by an explanation of al-riba. This explained to us the ethical and unethical ways to deal with money.

Among all sins, al-riba is listed as the worst sin that could be committed. In today’s world, the practice of al-riba is so common that we must readdress it and remind each other about its danger. He who commits riba is banned from Allah’s mercy. Not only is the consumer guilty, but those who witness and are involved in the contracts are considered guilty as well. People associated with riba are always anxious and live an unpeaceful life. In the Quran, Allah has clearly stated that individuals involved with riba are at war with Allah. This war is worse than fighting with weapons, people are simply fighting against themselves. The blessings and happiness is lost and replaced by stress, fear, and misery.

A moment of reflection: this is unfortunately the life we live today.

An important thing to remember is that many people will try to find excuses or backdoors around the principle of al-riba. Such conditions put more people at risk of committing this sin.

With all of this darkness, Allah always opens the door for forgiveness. We are encouraged as Muslims to be understanding to those who are in need of borrowing money and to not abuse this situation. May Allah keep us away from al-riba and fill our lives with everything halal.