Do we have the flexibility to decide on Haram & Halal?

By Muhammad Rizwan-ul Haque

Founding Chairman, Dawood Family Takaful, CEO of an Investment Bank and Director of a Trust

September 21, 2016

Introduction

There can be some flexibility when something is Makrooh or if an act is Mustahab (i.e., not Farz). However, when Allah (SWT) has clearly declared something forbidden — for example, the meat of a dead goat — then we cannot justify its use, nor can we convert it into something that may be called halal.

Riba

If there is no dispute and the message in the Qur’an and Sunnah is clear that Riba (interest) is forbidden, then there is no need to justify its use — especially within institutions that are named “Islamic.”

Only Upon Doing Away With Interest

It is a bitter reality that only by eliminating interest will we be able to find a new pathway toward genuine economic success. Otherwise, we will remain trapped in the same old maze of interest, loans, leverage, banking systems, and in short — capitalism.

Strict Shariah Rules

No matter how sincere, competent, or religious we may be, no law or command in the Qur’an and Sunnah gives us the authority to declare a haram act as halal.

A Verse Which Shows Us a Mirror

“And say not what your tongues falsely describe: ‘This is lawful and this is unlawful,’ so as to invent lies against Allah. Indeed, those who invent lies against Allah will never prosper.” (16:116)

This World Is Temporary

In the following verse, Allah (SWT) reminds us that we may gain temporary benefits in this world — such as fame, wealth, power, or authority — but these are fleeting.“There is only a brief enjoyment, and for them is a painful punishment.” (16:117)

A Window of Forgiveness

If we have made mistakes unknowingly and failed to understand the message of Allah (SWT) regarding Riba, Allah provides a path toward repentance:“Then indeed, your Lord — for those who did wrong out of ignorance and then repented after that and corrected themselves — indeed, your Lord thereafter is Forgiving and Merciful.” (16:119)

Forbidden Practices of Riba Must Be Stopped

Allah (SWT) instructs believers to spread His message with wisdom and good counsel:“Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path, and He knows best those who are guided.” (16:125)

Be Patient During the Process

Allah further instructs believers to remain patient:“And O beloved, be patient — and your patience is only through Allah. Do not grieve over them and do not be distressed by their plots.” (16:127)

Do Your Best and Leave the Rest

We can only make a humble effort to discourage the sinful practices of Riba or interest. When, where, and how these practices will be stopped is known only to Allah (SWT). However, it remains our responsibility to raise awareness and continue striving against such practices, because the Qur’an and Sunnah have clearly forbidden Riba.