Some References to Halal, Haram Wealth in Quran
Obtaining wealth has not been barred by any of the divine prophets because it is a requirement for having a peaceful life. However, they have advised people to not become attached to this wealth, acquired it through halal or legitimate means, and refrain from deeds that may lead them to sins.
Another important topic is the issue of eating halal and clean foods.
There are several verses that stress that acquiring halal wealth is as important as conducting jihad for the sake of God.
Verse 188 of Surah Baqarah reads: “Do not consume your wealth between you in falsehood; neither propose it to judges, in order that you sinfully consume a portion of the people's wealth, while you know.”
Bribery, according to the Quran and Hadiths, is one of the major sins that create social corruption as it undermines justice and destroys public trust.
Another reference to haram wealth is the one related to exploiting the wealth of the orphans.
“Give the orphans their wealth. Do not exchange the evil for the good, nor consume their wealth with your wealth. Surely, that is a great sin.” (Surah An-Nisa, Verse 2)
Islam is a supporter of the underprivileged class and notes that orphan kids are entitled to possess the properties of their parents.
Islamic teachings also stress that acquiring orphans’ property by cheating on them is a major sin that will not be forgiven.
Another instance of haram has been named in the following verse:
“Do not eat from that which the Name of Allah has not been mentioned, for it is a sin. The satans will reveal to their guided ones to argue with you. If you obey them, you shall indeed become idolaters.” (Surah Al-An'am, verse 121)
According to this verse, it is necessary to say the name of God when slaughtering animals. The verse also stresses the commitment to obtain halal wealth because using haram wealth and properties will pave the ground for accepting satan’s temptations.
Furthermore, verse 51 of Surah Az-Zukhruf talks about those who spend their wealth on things that are not divine: “Then Pharaoh made a proclamation to his people: 'My people, is the kingdom of Egypt not mine and these rivers which flow beneath me? What, can you not see?”
According to the Quran, idolaters such as the Pharaoh exploited wealth and forced people into slavery because they saw themselves as a god.
Answering a question on the best type of wealth, Imam Reza (AS) said: “The best wealth is the one that safeguards your honor and preserves you in the face of poverty.” (Bihar al-Anwar, volume 75, page 352)
