Usury Banned in All Abrahamic Faiths

TEHRAN (IQNA) – Among the issues explicitly banned in all Abrahamic religions is Riba (usury) as it disrupts the economic balance in societies.

Riba is a financial issue and according to Islamic law means unjust, exploitative gains made in trade or business. When we lend some money to someone and ask for more in return, it is Riba.

All religions have considered Riba to be Haram (forbidden) as it undermines the economic structure of the family and society. In Riba, the one who borrows money is put under pressure and the one who lends money earns more than he has lent without making any efforts.

In the Zabur of Da’ud (David), we read: “One who lends his money (in usury to gain) gold and silver has done worse than eating dead animals’ meat.”

In the Torah, too, Riba has been deplored. “If your brother comes to you impoverished and destitute, welcome him and help him like a guest and do not demand usury.”

The Bible, while allowing people to get a little interest, bans getting anything more than that.

In the Holy Quran, Riba is banned and both the one who gives and the one who gets Riba are considered sinners. According to verse 130 of Surah Al-Imran: “Believers, do not accept illegal interest (Riba) in order to increase your wealth many times over. Have fear of God so that you will have everlasting happiness.” (Surah Al-Imran, verse 130)

Riba is such a grave sin according to Islam that it is compared to waging war against God and His Prophet (PBUH): “If you will not give up the unlawful interest which you demand, know that you are in the state of war with God and His Messenger.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 279)

While usury is mentioned as one of the gravest financial sins, Zakat (alms-giving) has been described as one of the best financial deeds that has great rewards. “That which you give in usury so that it increases in other people's wealth, will not increase with Allah; but the charity you give desiring the Face of Allah, to those, they shall be recompensed many times over.” (Surah Ar-Rum, verse 39)

Zakat is a favorable deed in view of Islam because those who give Zakat fulfil their social responsibility, please God and help the poor in society.