Message #15481

[Zainab_M]

I would say yes, it's okay.  If the universal system is such that there's practically nothing in the form of a genuine, non-profit, interest-free loan, it's not the person's fault.  If he or she doesn't have the money and needs a loan, they have no other choice but to approach the existing financial institutions and borrow money on their terms and conditions.  The sin is upon the financial institution, not the individual.  The individual only needs to make sure that if it lends money to a relative, friend, colleague or neighbor or any other person, it must NOT charge any interest or riba and only seek back the principle.  If the debtor is in a difficult situation, you should try to waive the payback and remit it as charity.  That would be best if the amount is not too big and if you can afford to remit it.

Secondly the individual must also make sure not to borrow money or take loan for performing Hajj. Certainly not interest based loan.  Even if it's interest-free, borrowing money for fulfilling any responsibility simply means you're financially not comfortable enough.  And Allah Almighty has made it clear in the Quran that He has not placed any difficulties in religion and that only those to perform Hajj who can undertake it.