Riba, often translated as interest or usury, is strictly prohibited in Islam. The Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, explicitly addresses Riba in several verses, highlighting its destructive nature and the severe consequences for those who engage in it. This blog post explores the key Qur’anic revelations regarding Riba and their implications for Muslims.
1. First Revelation (Surah al-Rum, verse 39)
“That which you give as interest to increase the peoples’ wealth increases not with God; but that which you give in charity, seeking the goodwill of God, multiplies manifold.” (30:39)
The first mention of Riba in the Qur’an distinguishes between interest and charity. While interest may appear to increase wealth, it does not bring blessings from Allah. In contrast, charity, given sincerely for Allah’s sake, is promised to multiply manifold, reflecting the divine preference for selfless giving over exploitative gains.
2. Second Revelation (Surah al-Nisa’, verse 161)
“And for their taking interest even though it was forbidden for them, and their wrongful appropriation of other peoples’ property. We have prepared for those among them who reject faith a grievous punishment.” (4:161)
In this verse, the Qur’an condemns the practice of taking interest, particularly by those who had already been forbidden from doing so. It underscores the grave consequences awaiting those who persist in such actions, equating the taking of Riba with a rejection of faith.
3. Third Revelation (Surah Al ‘Imran, verses 130-132)
“O believers, take not doubled and redoubled interest, and fear God so that you may prosper. Fear the fire which has been prepared for those who reject faith, and obey God and the Prophet so that you may receive mercy.” (3:130-132)
This verse specifically addresses believers, urging them to avoid the practice of charging exorbitant interest rates, which were common at the time. The verse warns of severe consequences, including the fire of Hell, for those who engage in Riba, and it calls for obedience to Allah and His Prophet as a path to mercy and success.
4. Fourth Revelation (Surah al-Baqarah, verses 275-281)
“Those who benefit from interest shall be raised like those who have been driven to madness by the touch of the Devil; this is because they say: ‘Trade is like interest’ while God has permitted trade and forbidden interest. Hence those who have received the admonition from their Lord and desist, may keep their previous gains, their case being entrusted to God; but those who revert shall be the inhabitants of the fire and abide therein for ever.” (2:275)
“God deprives interest of all blessing but blesses charity; He loves not the ungrateful sinner.” (2:276)
“Those who believe, perform good deeds, establish prayer and pay the zakat, their reward is with their Lord; neither should they have any fear, nor shall they grieve.” (2:277)
“O believers, fear Allah, and give up what is still due to you from the interest (usury), if you are true believers.” (2:278)
“If you do not do so, then take notice of war from Allah and His Messenger. But, if you repent, you can have your principal. Neither should you commit injustice nor should you be subjected to it.” (2:279)
“If the debtor is in difficulty, let him have respite until it is easier, but if you forego out of charity, it is better for you if you realize.” (2:280)
“And fear the Day when you shall be returned to the Lord and every soul shall be paid in full what it has earned and no one shall be wronged.” (2:281)
These verses from Surah al-Baqarah provide a comprehensive understanding of Riba’s prohibition. It emphasizes that those who engage in interest-based transactions are in defiance of divine commandments and will be resurrected in a state of madness, a sign of their moral and spiritual degradation.
The verses also clarify that while trade is permissible, Riba is strictly forbidden, and the two are not to be equated. The Qur’an urges believers to abandon all forms of interest, warning them of a declaration of war from Allah and His Messenger for those who persist. Furthermore, it calls for compassion towards debtors, encouraging believers to show leniency or even forgive debts as an act of charity.
Conclusion
The Qur’an’s stance on Riba is unequivocal, highlighting its severe consequences and urging believers to engage in charitable acts instead. The prohibition of Riba is not merely a financial guideline but a moral directive aimed at fostering justice, compassion, and social equity. As Muslims, understanding and adhering to these teachings is essential in aligning our financial practices with the principles of Islam.