#usury prohibition

[msn-technology]

The Definition and Prohibition of Riba (Interest) in Islam

In Islamic terminology, the word “riba” (interest) refers to a conditional increase or profit on a loan. It also involves one party receiving an excess from the other in the exchange of a measured or weighed item. The other party receives less. This increase or excess is free from consideration and is conditional in the contract. This practice is strictly forbidden in Islam due to its moral and…

[spacelazarwolf]

i love (hate) when goyim go on and on abt usury and those dirty jews charging exorbitant interest rates on loans to gentiles bc other than the fact jews were legally prohibited from joining many professions, they often used the high interest earned from those loans to pay the taxes jews were required to pay to the governing authority of the place where they lived, where they often had to go before that governing authority and literally bargain for basic rights.

[the-garbanzo-annex-jr]

by Vince Coyner

Do you ever wonder why, when we think of Jews, we think of banking and media and not construction or farming? Is it because Jews can’t build or farm? No. They built Jerusalem long before the Romans arrived and centuries later created a vibrant farming industry out of what was essentially a 19th-century desert in what would later become Israel.

The reason Jews are often associated with banking and media and other such pursuits has to do with the fact that historically they were prohibited from large swaths of the economy. In Europe, under the Romans and Christians, Jews were often excluded from guilds. In Islamic lands they faced Jizya, a tax on non-Muslims.

Those exclusions and taxes dovetailed with usury bans on Christians and Muslims to open a significant opportunity for Jews. A key element of their being able to take advantage of that opportunity comes directly from the Jewish faith itself, which requires Jews read the Torah. Literacy and its companion numeracy allowed Jews to become successful bankers. That expertise and success, in turn, provided them with the capital and connections to branch into other areas.

So why are there still so few Jews relative to the rest of the population? A few factors. As people become more prosperous, birthrates decline. Additionally, successful Jews often intermarry into Christian families and seem to drift away from the faith. And lastly, as Gad Saad points out in The Parasitic Mind, Judaism demands a great deal of its adherents and even more from those who want to become members. The result is that while Jewish civilization is one of the oldest in human history, its adherents remain a tiny fraction of mankind.

That tiny number hides much. With their focus on education handed down over thousands of years, Jews have the highest IQs in the world. While representing just .2% of the world’s population, Jews represent more than 20% of Nobel Prize recipients across disciplines including 41% in Economics, 26% in Medicine, and 25% in Physics. Jews outperform virtually every other group on the planet in terms of success across a wide swath of culture and civilization. Mark Twain observed:

[The Jews] are peculiarly and conspicuously the world’s intellectual aristocracy... [Jewish] contributions to the world’s list of great names in literature, science, art, music, finance, medicine, and abstruse learning are way out of proportion to the weakness of his numbers. He has made a marvelous fight in this world...and has done it with his hands tied behind him.

As with members of every other group, there are no doubt Jews who are avaricious, malicious, and mendacious, but I would suggest they, too, are a minority. In reality, the hatred directed at Jews has little to do with anything other than envy. People hate or dislike Jews because, in the aggregate, they’re so successful, and people focus this animus on the keys that empowered Jews: family, community, and education. (I am somewhat dumbfounded why so many of these manifestly smart people vote for Democrats, who are against virtually everything Jews have harnessed to succeed...)

[howtomuslim]

The Completeness of Islam: A Multifaceted Way of Life

Islam is a comprehensive way of life that encompasses all aspects of human existence. From mental health to nature, spirituality, the economy, politics, manners, and family care. Islam’s multifaceted nature and its relevance provides profound guidance and wisdom to Muslims.

Spirituality

Spirituality is at the heart of Islam. The Quran and Hadith provide extensive guidance on developing a deep, personal relationship with Allah.

“Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest” (Quran 13:28)

Central to Islamic spirituality is the practice of the five daily prayers (Salah). These prayers are not merely rituals but profound acts of worship that strengthen the connection between the believer and Allah. Praying five times a day at prescribed times creates a rhythm of devotion, reminding Muslims of their purpose and aligning their lives with divine guidance. 

“The closest a person is to His Lord is when he is in prostration” (Sahih Muslim).

“The similitude of one who remembers his Lord and one who does not remember Him, is like that of the living and the dead” (Sahih al-Bukhari).

Mental Health

Islam recognises the importance of mental health and provides guidance on maintaining psychological well-being. The Quran emphasises patience and reliance on Allah during times of distress: 

“Verily, with hardship comes ease” (Quran 94:6).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also encouraged seeking help and making dua (supplication) for mental relief:  “There is no disease that Allah has created, except that He also has created its treatment” (Sahih al-Bukhari).

Nature

Islam teaches a deep respect for nature and the environment. The Quran frequently references the signs of Allah in the natural world: 

“And He is the One Who spread out the earth and placed firm mountains and rivers upon it, and created fruits of every kind in pairs. He covers the day with night. Surely in this are signs for those who reflect.” (Quran 13:3).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) highlights the importance of caring for the environment: 

“If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift (Sadaqah) for him” (Sahih al-Bukhari).

Economy

Islamic economic principles promote justice, fairness, and welfare. The prohibition of usury (interest), in order to prevent the extortion of others and for the rich to get richer and the poor to get poorer, is one example: 

“Allah has permitted trade and has forbidden interest” (Quran 2:275).

Zakat (a wealth tax given to charity) is another pillar of Islam, aimed at redistributing wealth to those in need:  “And establish prayer and give Zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves — you will find it with Allah”(Quran 2:110).

Politics & Justice

Islamic governance is based on justice and the welfare of the people. The Quran states: 

“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives” (Quran 4:135)

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provided an example of leadership based on compassion and justice:

 “The best of rulers are those whom you love and who love you, who pray for you and you pray for them” (Sahih Muslim)

Manners

Islam places great emphasis on good manners and etiquette. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, 

“The best among you are those who have the best manners and character” (Sahih al-Bukhari).

The Quran instructs believers to speak kindly and avoid harsh words:  “Worship none but Allah; be kind to parents, relatives, orphans and the needy; speak kindly to people; establish prayer; and pay Zakat”* (Quran 2:83).

Family Care

Family is the cornerstone of Islamic society. The Quran and Hadith provide detailed guidance on maintaining family bonds and treating family members with kindness and respect.

 “And We have commanded people to ˹honour˺ their parents. Their mothers bore them through hardship upon hardship, and their weaning takes two years. So be grateful to Me and your parents. To Me is the final return.”* (Quran 31:14)

“The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family” (Sunan Ibn Majah).

Education

Education is highly valued in Islam, both for men and women. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said,  “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim” (Sunan Ibn Majah).

The Quran encourages the pursuit of knowledge, in fact, the first words revealed from the Quran was:

“Read in the name of your Lord who created” (Quran 96:1)

These verses among others were the fuel to the fantastic strides achieved by Muslims in the past in the field of science, astronomy, mathematics, medicine and much more, and continue to provide inspiration for Muslims today. 

Social Justice

Social justice is a fundamental aspect of Islam. The Quran advocates for the rights of the oppressed and marginalised: 

“O believers! Stand firm for Allah and bear true testimony. Do not let the hatred of a people lead you to injustice. Be just! That is closer to righteousness. And be mindful of Allah. Surely Allah is All-Aware of what you do.” (Quran 5:8)

Health and Hygiene

Islam emphasises health and hygiene, recognising them as vital components of a healthy life. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Cleanliness is half of faith” (Sahih Muslim).

The Quran also highlights the importance of consuming lawful and pure food: 

“O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship” (Quran 2:172)

Charity and Community Support

Charity is not only encouraged but mandated in Islam (except those in need of it). Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) are means to support those in need and promote social welfare:  “The example of those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah is that of a grain that sprouts into seven ears, each bearing one hundred grains. And Allah multiplies ˹the reward even more˺ to whoever He wills. For Allah is All-Bountiful, All-Knowing.” (Quran 2:261).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said,  “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity” (Tirmidhi).

The completeness of Islam is evident in its comprehensive guidance covering all facets of life. From promoting mental health and environmental care to fostering spirituality, economic justice, political integrity, good manners, strong family bonds, the pursuit of education, social justice, health and hygiene, charitable deeds and much more. Islam offers a holistic approach to living a balanced and fulfilling life. Its teachings are timeless and applicable to everyone of us.

To learn more about Islam visit our website: howtomuslim.org

[tamamita]

The whole strictness about loans in Islam is because of the severity of loans and how it can cause discord among people when a debt can't be settled. This is why usury/interests are prohibited in Islam, because of how it exploits people. Since Islam emphasises on the idea of generosity and charity, it's almost a custom to help someone out in need as an obligation rather than putting them in debt. There was a cultural/religious stigma of lending someone money that developed as a result.

[dandelionh3art]

Sharia, or Islamic law, is a framework derived from Islam's sacred texts—the Quran (the holy book of Islam) and the Hadith (accounts of the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad). It provides guidelines to help Muslims align their lives with their faith in matters such as personal conduct, family relations, finance, and, in some interpretations, criminal law.

Core Sources of Sharia Law

1. Quran: The primary and most authoritative source of Sharia, believed by Muslims to be the direct word of God.

2. Hadith: Recorded sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, which offer detailed guidance on matters not explicitly covered in the Quran.

3. Ijma (Consensus): Agreement among Islamic scholars, especially for issues not explicitly covered in the Quran and Hadith.

4. Qiyas (Analogical Reasoning): Reasoning based on known teachings to apply Sharia to new situations.

Scope of Sharia Law

Sharia covers a range of areas in a Muslim’s life, not just legal aspects:

1. Personal Conduct: Guidelines for daily life, including worship, diet, dress, and moral behavior.

2. Family Law: Rules around marriage, divorce, inheritance, and child custody. Many countries incorporate these elements into family or civil law.

3. Financial Transactions: Ethical principles for trade and finance, such as prohibitions on charging interest (usury) and a focus on fairness.

4. Criminal Law: While often emphasized in discussions, criminal law is only one part of Sharia. It includes guidelines for offenses and their punishments, though specific applications vary by country and interpretation.

Misconceptions about Sharia Law

A common misconception, especially outside the Muslim world, is that Sharia is a uniform code advocating harsh punishments and threatening non-Muslims. In reality:

Sharia is not monolithic; it varies widely in interpretation and practice depending on cultural, historical, and regional factors. Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan may have stricter interpretations, while others, such as Turkey or Indonesia, limit Sharia’s role to family and personal law.

Non-Muslims are typically not subject to Sharia. In most cases, Sharia laws apply primarily to Muslims. In countries where Sharia has a role in the legal system, non-Muslim communities are often exempt or subject to their own laws for family and religious matters.

Modern Application of Sharia Law

Today, Sharia’s application is highly diverse. Some Muslims interpret it primarily as a moral code guiding individual conduct, while others may apply its legal aspects within community or national laws. Within the Islamic world, debates continue on how Sharia should intersect with contemporary legal standards, especially on issues of human rights, gender equality, and religious freedom.

Ultimately, Sharia is a complex and layered system that, for Muslims, provides a spiritual and moral guide aimed at aligning life with what they believe is God’s will. Its application varies significantly and does not inherently threaten non-Muslims or impose religious laws on them.

[racefortheironthrone]

I once read the reason why merchants were so ill seen in pre-modern times was because there was a lack of understanding on how they buying a product from a place of production and selling at a place of consumption added value to the product and thus entitled the merchant to selling at a profit something he did not produce. My question is (and I undertand it is quite out of your area of expertise): do you think the Bronze Age civilizations would have shared such a view, or would they have interpreted merchants and their trade closer to how we do, given those civilizations dependance on the commerce of copper and tin?

I don't think it's a question of not understanding - I think it's a question of disagreeing that buying low and selling high as opposed to actually contributing physical labor creates a moral right of ownership.

I would highly recommend Jacob Soll's book on this point, because one of the things he points out is that this attitude or belief was incredibly common across pre-modern societies from Western Europe all the way to Japan and China, in part because these societies were overwhelmingly agricultural economies where the farmer was respected because they were vital to survival, such that even the aristocratic elite tended to espouse a kind of pastoral "gentleman farmer" ideal and despise the values of merchants.

In these contexts, Soll notes, the idea that merchants and other middlemen had economic (and thus moral and cultural) value was something that had to be actively asserted and argued for, and he uncovers a literature on the subject that goes as far back as Cicero and all the way through the Middle Ages and beyond. At the same time, it was an incredibly divisive and contested topic that the merchants didn't win a lot of the time - hence the Church getting behind Aquinas' concept of the "just price," hence why Renaissance bankers had to reverse-engineer lending at interest to get around prohibitions on usury, etc.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

AOTD - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who this past Wednesday, signed int law the bill HB1645 which strikes the two words “climate change” from all state law.

Under this new law, climate change - in actual word and in concept - will simply disappear from state statutes.

While the bill will literally erase several instances of the words “climate change” from state statutes, it will also more absurdly restructure the state’s energy policy that to no longer list climate change as a priority when making energy policy decisions.

Making this critical issue political, DeSantis said, "Florida rejects the designs of the left to weaken our energy grid, pursue a radical climate agenda, and promote foreign adversaries…”

He says that instead, the priority now is to ensure “an adequate, reliable and cost-effective supply of energy for the state in a manner that promotes the health and welfare of the public and economic growth…” and then added that, “radical green zealots want to impose their climate agenda on people through restrictions, regulations, and taxes.”

Critics say the move ignores the risks of climate change facing Florida, including rising seas, flooding and extreme heat.

The legislation deletes more than 50 lines of previous state statutes dealing with climate change which have been on the books since Governor Crist in 2008.

And in that classic Republican hypocritical manner of hating big government and big-brother-ness unless they want to use it, the bill also prohibits any local governments from enacting their own energy policy restrictions …

The bill also prohibits the construction or expansion of any offshore windmills. Done. Over.

And again in classic hypocritical Republican fashion, DeSantis indulges corporate insurance companies to go head and keep charging usurious rates to Floridians to insure their homes, based precisely on these realties which DeSantis prefers to ignore and pretend away.

So, Floridians will be subject to incredibly high insurance rates to protect their homes… from a non-existent problem… DeSantis’ bill is another of his nods to corporate fossil fuel companies - and again, in classic Republican fashion, makes legislation that runs against the majority of his constituents…

On the day he signed the bill, a poll of his actual constituents said that 68+% of Floridians believe their state government should do more to address climate change.

THIS is Republican governance… opposite of what constituents want, serving only corporate interests, and completely dangerously victimizing to the future health and wellbeing of citizens….

Mary Elaine LeBey

[adventism-atheism-orthodoxy-me]

This Verse Secretly Undermines All of Christianity...

I just saw this and thought I would process it on my own.

This YouTuber doesn't sound like he's explored much beyond mainstream Western Christianity. He makes the bold statement that EVERY Christian sect finds indispensable the idea that Christ died on the Cross "for our sins". Period.

For the longest time I found that challenging too. He goes on to talk about many of the same things I've asked, "Why couldn't God just forgive us outright? Why must he go through a generational pageant to do something the God of the Universe could have done of his own accord in the first place?"

You can say this is a dumb question. I've been told this many times.

Yet I have never been the only one asking this.

Many, if not all Atheists ask this question. Frankly, many "Christian" answers sound a little unhinged.

Now, I don't think that his examples necessarily contradict the prevailing point of view though. All anyone has to do is look at the banking industry to see that credit on future earnings is a valid payment method. Now it's true that modern banking, and especially credit, wasn't developed until the European Jews, unable to make a living any other way, started lending during the medieval period. Jesuits came up with the idea of insurance, which didn't technically fall under the prohibition against usury. And with ongoing innovation, modern financial markets developed.

None of these, of course, would have been understood by the local people of Jesus' time and place.

What was understood was life and death.

And this is where I found my peace.

Sins can easily be forgiven, but sickness and eventual death? That's a whole other nut to crack. Now, to be clear, unfortunately even the most traditional Christian communities have started to obsess about how SIN must be atoned!

But there is a strain in the oldest Christian traditions that it wasn't primarily sin that was destroyed on the cross, but rather death, disease, corruption (of which sin is a derivation to be sure, but not the point).

Now it's easy to look around and say - "Look! it didn't work." I myself have had to say good bye to both my parents over the last several months.

However, there is a resurrection that is promised. And if Christ has done what he said he did, then there WILL be a general resurrection.

The key is to be prepared for that resurrection. Now we could go on about which denomination is best prepared, but I have little faith in denominationalism. I think it's a means to conquer and divide the faithful, pitting follower against follower. Soon the God who's being worshiped isn't the most High God, but the Deceiver who encourages us all to call each other heretics. I do not think most "Christians" are Christian, but rather following their own wisdom (1 Timothy 6:3-5, 2 Thessalonians 2:11, Matthew 7:13-14, Matthew 24:11).

Now I may be a false teacher myself for thinking such a thing and putting it out there, but I have faith that God will know his own. And while he loves the rest, and has given them life, that life will be so much less for the fact that they reject what he's given them.

I find the idea of a river of fire helpful - Moses and the Glory of God (Exodus 33:20-23), speaks to the idea that to human senses, God is Fire. The Story of the Three Holy Youths (Daniel 3) has also been seen as an illustration of man abiding in the presence of fire, as a proxy for God, unharmed. Pentecost is God's fire experienced by the faithful after his resurrection. How will Gods fire be experienced by the unfaithful?

I have no idea, but I doubt that it will be pleasant (Luke 16:19-31).

In short, I feel this video failed to land it's point. There's enough diversity in Christianity to survive this argument, though I do not think that most modern Christians are open to my resolution.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, Have mercy upon me, a sinner.

[abdullahblogsposts]

Fatāwā ʿAbâr Al-Athīr (No.1009)

☁️Question: Is it permissible to accept money from someone who is suspected of having earned it in ḥarām (forbidden ways)?

Answer:

❝ A man's earnings are scrutinized to determine if: (i) his money is inherently forbidden, such as if it was stolen or usurped, or (ii) if it is forbidden due to the way he earned the money, such as dealing in ribā (usury) or engaging in business malpractice etc.

⏺ In the first type of earning, ḥarām earnings such as stolen money, it is not permissible to take from it and there is no exception to this rule, whether it is by purchase, gift, or any other means. Al-Ḥāfiẓ Ibn Rajab wrote in “Jāmiʿ al-ʿUlūm wal-Ḥikam” that “whenever it is known that a specific thing is forbidden or that it was taken in a forbidden way, then it is forbidden to consume it, and an ʿijmā (consensus) on this was narrated by Ibn ʿAbd al-Barr and others.”— End of quote, by ibn Rajab رَحِمَهُ ٱللَّٰهُ.

⏺ Regarding the second type of prohibited earnings, if it was acquired through a legitimate means, then there are no restrictions on dealing with it. However, it is best to avoid engaging with something in that condition out of piety and as a form of reprimand. It is authentically reported that the Prophet ﷺ consumed from the wealth of the Jews, who are well known for consuming ribā and engaging in illicit dealings. One example is when a Jewish woman offered him ﷺ a sheep on the Day of Khăybâr. It was poisoned, and he ate from it, but Allāh protected him from its poison until the appointed time (of death). According to an authentic report from Ibn Masʿūd رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ, he was asked about a person whose neighbor consumed ribā and invited him to eat with him. He replied, "Accept his invitation, for the pleasure will be yours and the burden of sin will be his."

Ibn Rajâb narrated from Al-Zuhrī and Makḥūl that they said: "There is no harm in eating from it unless he knows that it is specifically forbidden. If he does not specifically know what was forbidden in his money, but had knowledge that there is suspicion (shubh) in it, then there is no harm in eating from it.” —And Allāh تعالى knows best. ❞

— Shaykh Abū Muḥammad Al-Maṣrī!!

فتاوى عبر الأثير (( 1009 ))

– السؤال:- هل يجوز أخذ مال من شخص يظن أن كسبه حرام؟

– الجواب:- ينظر الى كسب الرجل هل ماله حرام بعينه كأن يكون مسروقاً أو مغصوباً أو حراماً بسبب طريقة كسبه للمال لكونه يتعامل بالربا أو يغش في البيع ونحو ذلك؛

– فالنوع الأول من الكسب الحرام كالمال المسروق لا يجوز الأخذ منه مطلقاً سواء عن طريق الشراء أو الهدية أو غير ذلك, قال الحافظ أبن رجب في “جامع العلوم والحكم” (ومتى علم أن عين الشيء حرام أو أخذ بوجه محرم فإنه يحرم تناوله وقد حكى الإجماع على ذلك ابن عبدالبر وغيره) إنتهى كلامه رحمه الله.

– أما النوع الثاني من الكسب الحرام إذا أخذ عن طريق وجه مشروع فلا شيء فيه وإن كان الأولا ترك التعامل مع من هذا حاله من باب التورع والزجر, فقد صح أن النبي -صلى الله عليه وسلم- أكل من مال اليهود وهم معرفون بأخذ الربا وأكل السحت ومن ذلك إن امرأة يهودية أهدت إليه -صلى الله عليه وسلم- شاة يوم خيبر وكانت مسمومه فأكل منها ولكن الله عصمه من سمها الى آجل مسمى, وصح عن ابن مسعود -رضي الله عنه- أنه سأل عن من له جار يأكل الربا ويدعوه الى طعامه فقال (أجيبوه فإن المهنأ لكم والوزر عليه)

– ونقل ابن رجب عن الزهري ومكحول أنهما قالا (لا بأس أن يأكل منه مالم يعرف إنه حرام بعينه فإن لم يعلم في ماله حرام بعينه ولكن علم أن فيه شبهة فلا بأس بالأكل منه)… والله تعالى أعلم

[st-just]

The ways early modern Christian bankers got around the prohibition on usury are so great-

"Oh it's not a loan - it's currency exchange! We give them a bunch of florins now, in exchange for a bunch of ducats, which they will give us in 6 month. And also we carefully set the exchange rate for the contract to make sure the ducats are worth more florins then we paid - but not technically lending at interest! Unrelated but would you like a sack of gold to buy new stained glass windows for your cathedral with?"

[basicsofislam]

ECONOMIC SYSTEM IN ISLAM: Part 1

Balance in Society

Islam avoids extremes in order to maintain social balance and order. Therefore, monopoly and cut-throat competition are disapproved. Islam’s essence is justice for all, which enables people to lead a good and happy life while, at the same time, strengthens the bonds of human brotherhood and the social fabric.

The social framework prevalent today in most Muslim countries is not Islamic. Many places are characterized by monstrous and oppressive conditions for the poor, rampant corruption, poverty, and need. A few people have acquired substantial wealth and thus enjoy the numerous amenities and luxuries of life, whereas the majority do not even receive two square meals a day. An Islamic social order stresses simple and austere efforts that are free from ostentation. The Messenger strove to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor, the high and the low. He advocated a society in which one sector would not exploit another, for Islam seeks a balanced life that represents the equilibrium of social forces.

The fullest development of humanity’s potential can be achieved through the implementation of Islamic principles. The optimum level of civilization, which embodies the maximum well-being, can never be possible without spiritual and moral development. All Islamic principles, which descend from Divinity, are perfect and absolute. The Islamic approach is therefore just, natural, humane, and perfectly balanced and rational. Abu’l-Fazl Ezzati outlines the Islamic economic system as follows:

Islam represents a complete way of life. There is no compartmentalization of human activity in Islam. Its economic policy is, therefore, an integral part of the religion of Islam.

Islamic economic system is based on equality, justice, moderation, and collective self-sufficiency.

Man’s spiritual development is fundamental but his physical welfare is instrumental.

Islam is based on faith in God, Who has given man the capability to choose between good and evil and assume full responsibility for his conduct. “Man has only that for which he makes effort, and this effort will be seen.” (53:39-40)

Islam is a universal system embodying eternal values that safeguard man’s rights while constantly reminding him of his obligation to himself and society.

Islam forbids exploitation and monopoly in all forms and strictly prohibits unearned interest such as usury, gambling, betting, etc.

Islam honors labor and contracts, enjoins work and toil, encourages man to earn his own living by honest means and to spread his earnings.

Islam encourages mutual helping and never likes “wealth to circulate among the rich only” (59:7). Every member of the Muslim community feels obliged to help his poor brother while he is equally entitled to live a private life and to own property.36

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

There are pro-Hamas, pro-regime morons on social media uncritically regurgitating this in order to justify the actions of the Hamas freedom fighters terrorist organization, while ignoring the fact the regime is executing its own citizens for holding the kind of protests that these brain-dead useful idiots stage every day.

But let's take a moment to read what it actually says, and importantly, what it means.

Firstly, here's what it actually says:

https://quranx.com/2.279

And if you do not, then be informed of a war [against you] from Allah and His Messenger. But if you repent, you may have your principal - [thus] you do no wrong, nor are you wronged.

Of all fourteen translations on QuranX, only one uses the word "oppress"; Ahmed Ali:

If you do not, beware of war on the part of God and His Apostle. But if you repent, you shall keep your principal. Oppress none and no one will oppress you.

So, that's disingenuous from the outset. But what does "if you do not" mean? "if you do not" what? What's it referring to?

https://quranx.com/2.278

O you who have believed, fear Allah and give up what remains [due to you] of interest, if you should be believers.

What does this actually mean? Let's consult the tafsirs (exegesis):

https://quranx.com/Tafsir/Jalal/2.278

O you who believe, fear God, and give up, abandon, the usury that is outstanding, if you are believers, true to your faith, since it is expected of the believer that he adhere to God’s command: this was revealed when some of the Companions, after the prohibition, wanted to reclaim some of the usury from before.

https://quranx.com/Tafsir/Jalal/2.279

But if you do not, do what you have been commanded, then be warned, have knowledge, of war from God, and His Messenger, against you: herein is a grave threat for them. When it was revealed, they said, ‘What power can we have in a war against Him!’ Yet if you repent, and forgo it, you shall have your principal sums, the original amounts, not being unjust, by charging interest, and no injustice being done to you, by way of any diminution.

Here's another tafsir:

https://quranx.com/Tafsir/Abbas/2.278

(O ye who believe!) the reference here is to the sons of 'Amr Ibn 'Umayr Ibn 'Awf al-Thaqafi, [and they were four brothers:] Mas'ud [Ibn 'Amr], Hubayb [Ibn 'Amr], 'Abd Yalayl [Ibn 'Amr] and Rabi'ah [Ibn 'Amr] (observe your duty to Allah) fear Allah regarding usury, (and give up what remaineth (due to you) from usury) leave that which the Banu Makhzum owe you of usury, (if ye are (in truth) believers) if you really believe in the prohibition of usury.

https://quranx.com/Tafsir/Abbas/2.279

(And if ye do not) if you do not abstain from usury, (then be warned of war (against you) from Allah and His Messenger) then be ready for a torment from God in the Hereafter by means of the Fire and its chastisement and also be ready for the sword from His Messenger in the life of this world. (And if ye repent) from usury, (then ye have your principal (without interest)) that is owed to you by the Banu Makhzum. (Wrong not) anyone by demanding interest, (and ye shall not be wronged) by anyone if they give you back your capitals; it is also said that 'wrong not' means: do not harm others; and 'you shall not be wronged' meaning: you shall not be harmed because of your debts.

It's in reference to "riba," aka "usury."

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riba

Riba is an Arabic word used in Islamic law and roughly translated as "usury": unjust, exploitative gains made in trade or business. Riba is mentioned and condemned in several different verses in the Qur'an (3:130, 4:161, 30:39, and most commonly 2:275-2:280). It is also mentioned in many hadith (reports of the life of Muhammad).

[..]

Definitions of riba include:

• Unjustified increment in borrowing or lending money, paid in kind or in money above the amount of loan, as a condition imposed by the lender or voluntarily promised by the borrower. This is called fiqh riba al-duyun (debt usury) (Abdel-Rahman Yousri Ahmad). • Unequal exchange. In addition to loan interest, this can include the exchange of nonequivalent quantities of goods (riba al-fadl) or unequal exposure to risk (Olivier Roy). • All forms of interest, "any excess on the principal sum of loan", i.e. any and all interest, irrespective of how much is lent, whether the borrower is rich or poor, or the use of the loan for investment or for consumption. Some translations of verses of the Quran substitute the word "interest" for riba or "usury". This is the "orthodox"[26] or "conservative" view of classical jurists, as well as revivalists such as Abul A'la Maududi.

So, what it's actually saying is that if you honor Allah's commandment to forego usury, you take what's fair to you, you do not exploit anyone and they do not exploit you. You will be granted your rewards by Allah, you do not take them yourself from others or you'll be punished in hell.

Khamenei absolutely fucking knows this. This shows both how manipulative and dishonest the regime is, and how absolutely brain-dead dumb-as-fuck gullible western Islamic apologists are.

This took me five minutes to look up. Fuck's sake...

😩

[wisdomrays]

REFLECTIONS ON THE QUR'AN: Sūratu’n-Nisā’ (Women): Part 3

O you who believe! Do not consume one another’s wealth in wrongful ways (such as theft, extortion, bribery, usury, and gambling), except that it is by mutual agreement; and do not destroy yourselves (individually or collectively by following wrongful ways like extreme asceticism and idleness. Be ever mindful that) God has surely been All-Compassionate towards you (particularly as believers). (An-Nisā’ 4:29)

The Qur’ān uses a comprehensive expression when it states: “Do not consume one another’s wealth in wrongful ways.” This verse points out that it is unlawful to use both public properties and those of our relatives without permission. The prohibition encompasses all unlawful ways such as theft, usury, gambling, wastefulness, spending on debauchery, and gaining through speculations. The earnings and trade by mutual agreement—which is the one specifically mentioned here since it is the most significant way of earning―are enough to live on. There is really no real need to get involved in unlawful and dubitable ways.

It is possible to understand the Divine command, “do not destroy your-selves” in three ways:

1. Whoever commits usury, gambling, bribery, or any other kind of il-licit acts destroys himself morally and spiritually.

2. Relentless capitalism or any kind of acts or transactions which mean earning or consuming in illegal, wrongful, and unfair ways, and even excessive liberalism and Machiavellianism, cause the ap-pearance of reactive systems such as communism and open the way to social upheaval, murder, anarchy, and disorder. These sys-tems and upheavals cause mass killings and internal conflicts and clashes. Then do not abandon Islam so that you may not kill one another following erroneous ways. The present situation of the world, which these systems dominate, confirms the verse under discussion.

3. The verse may also be warning against suicide. The imbalances in a society and the ensuing troubles such as poverty, the lack of mutual confidence and trust, wrong understanding and practice of asceticism by the ignorant, excessive use of force or punishment for defense of property, and the appearance of mafia-type organizations may lead many to depression and suicide.

Out of His limitless mercy, God Almighty shows us the safest way to earn and consume. This is in fact what is always expected from God, the All-Merciful and All-Compassionate.

[smqazi]

﴿ وَذَكِّرْ فَإِنَّ الذِّكْرَىٰ تَنفَعُ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ ﴾

[ الذاريات: 55]

Wa Dhakkir Fa`inna-dh-Dhikra Tanfa`ul-Mu`uminina

And remind, for indeed, the reminder benefits the believers, Surah Az-Zaariaat, 51, Ayah 55

BY WRITING “SO-CALLED ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN, WHICH BY DEFINITION IS NEITHER ISLAMIC NOR REPUBLIC,” I MEAN IT.  

AS A MUSLIM, I WILL KEEP REMINDING ALL OF YOU AS LONG AS I LIVE, TILL THE SO-CALLED ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN BECOMES NEW PAKISTAN (NAYAA PAKISTAN ), A TRULY ISLAMIC REPUBLIC.

____________________________________________________

WARNING!

THE SO-CALLED ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN, WHICH BY DEFINITION IS NEITHER ISLAMIC NOR REPUBLIC, HAS    DECLARED A WAR ON GOD ALMIGHTY, ALLAH (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) AND HIS LAST MESSENGER, MUHAMMAD (SallAllahu ‘alaihi wa Sallam) BY CONTINUING TO GIVE OR TAKE RIBA’.

SO, ALLAH (SUBHANAHU WA TA’ALA) HAS DECLARED A WAR ON ALL THOSE MUSLIMS WHO GIVE OR TAKE RIBA’ (USUARY)!

BECAUSE OF THEIR DISOBEDIENCE OF LAWS OF ALLAH (SUBHANAHU WA TA’ALA) i.e. SHARI’AH, THE HELPLESS, THE NEEDY, THE POOR, AND THE SIMPLE PEOPLE OF      PAKISTAN ARE SUFFERING FROM THE WRATH OF ALLAH (SUBHANAHU WA TA’LA). JUST THINK ABOUT IT SERIOUSLY, REALLY!

Riba' verses in Holy Qur’an-in the order of compilation: 

      

  Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayaat 275-281 

      Surah Aal-e-'Imran, Ayat 130 

      Surah Nisaa', Ayat 39 

      

Firstly the Riba' verses were revealed in Surah Ar-Rum: 

"And whatever Riba' you give so that it may increase in the wealth of the people, it does not increase with Allah." (Surah 30: Ayah 39) 

The second verse is of Surah An-Nisaa': 

And [for] their taking of usury (Riba') while they had been forbidden from it, and their consuming of the people's wealth unjustly. And we have prepared for the disbelievers among them a painful punishment. (Surah 4: Ayah 161)

The third verse is of Surah Aal-e-‘Imran:

"O those who believe do not eat up Riba' doubled and redoubled." (Surah 3: Ayah 130) 

The fourth verse is of Surah Al-Baqarah: 

O those who believe fear Allah and give up what still remains of the Riba' if you are believers. But if you do not, then listen to the declaration of war from Allah and His Messenger. And if you repent, yours is your principal. Neither you wrong, nor be wronged. And if there be one in misery, then deferment till ease. And that you leave it as alms is far better for you, if you really know. And be fearful of a day when you shall be returned to Allah, then everybody shall be paid, in full, what he has earned. And they shall not be wronged." (Surah 2: Ayaat 275-281)

"O those who believe, fear Allah and give up what still remains of the Riba' if you are believers. But if you do not, then listen to the declaration of war from Allah and His Messenger. And if you repent, yours is your principal. Neither you wrong, nor be wronged." [Al-Baqarah 2: Ayaat 278-279] 

The point that the Riba' verses of Surah Al- Baqarah make are:

• Unyielding resolve on the prohibition of Riba'; 

• Condemnation and absolute denunciation of Riba' practices, and tagging them as oppressive or unjust; 

• Gravity of the sinfulness of Riba', especially that this is the only mention in the Holy Qur’an of ‘a notice of war from God Almighty and His Messenger (SallAllahu ‘alaihi wa Sallam); 

• Clear definition that any excess over principal is Riba’;

• Uncompromising position against rescheduling for an increment; and lastly; 

Hinting that deferred-payment sale is an acceptable alternative. 

[dandelionh3art]

Sharia law, often misunderstood, is a moral and legal framework derived from Islamic teachings found in the Quran and the Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad). It encompasses a wide range of topics, including personal ethics, family matters, finance, and, in some cases, criminal justice. Here's a breakdown to clarify misconceptions:

1. Sharia is not a single book of laws.

Sharia literally means "path" or "way" in Arabic and is more of a guiding principle than a codified law. Different Islamic scholars and schools of thought interpret Sharia differently, leading to variations in its application across Muslim-majority countries.

2. Sharia is primarily about personal conduct.

Most of Sharia focuses on guiding individual Muslims on how to live a moral and ethical life. This includes:

Prayer: Guidelines for worship.

Charity: Obligations to help the needy (Zakat).

Dietary rules: Prohibitions like avoiding alcohol or eating certain foods.

Marriage and family: Guidelines on marriage contracts, divorce, and inheritance.

3. Criminal justice is a small and often misunderstood part of Sharia.

Criminal punishments under Sharia (known as Hudood laws) are the most controversial aspect but apply only in specific circumstances with very strict evidence requirements. For example:

Theft requires eyewitnesses and specific conditions to be met before severe punishments can be imposed.

Many of these punishments are rarely carried out and, in practice, are often replaced by other legal systems in modern states.

4. Sharia applies only to Muslims.

Sharia governs the lives of Muslims who choose to adhere to its teachings. It is not imposed on non-Muslims, even in Islamic countries. Non-Muslims often have their own legal frameworks, especially in matters of marriage, inheritance, and religious practice.

5. Sharia promotes justice, compassion, and community welfare.

The principles of Sharia aim to ensure fairness, protect human dignity, and prevent harm. For example:

The prohibition of usury (interest) is intended to prevent exploitation in financial transactions.

Charity is a fundamental obligation to reduce poverty and inequality.

6. Sharia differs from country to country.

Sharia is interpreted differently depending on culture, history, and local laws. For instance, many Muslim-majority countries combine Sharia principles with modern, secular legal systems. The strict implementation often highlighted in media represents only a minority of cases.

7. Misconceptions stem from cultural practices, not Sharia.

Some practices attributed to Sharia, such as forced marriages or honor killings, are cultural traditions and not supported by Islamic teachings. Islam explicitly prohibits coercion in matters of faith and personal choice.

8. Non-Muslims living in Muslim-majority countries:

In most Muslim-majority countries, non-Muslims are free to practice their own faith and are not governed by Sharia in personal matters. For example, they may follow their own religious laws regarding marriage and inheritance.

In Summary:

Sharia is a holistic moral framework meant to guide Muslims in living an ethical life, not a universal legal system imposed on everyone. The misconception that Sharia seeks to govern non-Muslims or enforce harsh punishments universally is largely a result of misinformation and cultural misunderstandings.

By understanding the spiritual, ethical, and personal aspects of Sharia, people can see it as a system rooted in principles of justice, compassion, and mutual respect.