✿ Written by: Saudi Fatwa Committee (Fatāwā)
If a loan is taken with an interest-based return (riba), then it is impermissible, according to the consensus of the Salaf (righteous predecessors). This is because clear proofs from the Qur’an and Sunnah establish the prohibition of riba, regardless of the intention—even if the objective is noble and virtuous.
If the loan is taken without any interest, then there is no harm. However:
Reference:
Ibn Bāz – Majmūʿ al-Fatāwā wa al-Maqālāt, 19/284
❖ Ruling on Taking a Riba-Based Loan for Good Causes
If a loan is taken with an interest-based return (riba), then it is impermissible, according to the consensus of the Salaf (righteous predecessors). This is because clear proofs from the Qur’an and Sunnah establish the prohibition of riba, regardless of the intention—even if the objective is noble and virtuous.
❖ Noble Intentions Do Not Justify Prohibited Means
- Good intentions do not make forbidden means permissible.
- A righteous goal cannot transform ḥarām into ḥalāl, nor can it justify using impermissible resources.
❖ Permissible Alternative
If the loan is taken without any interest, then there is no harm. However:
- It is preferable and more cautious to take loans from those whose wealth is free from riba and ḥarām earnings.
- This ensures the transaction remains pure and compliant with Sharīʿah.
Reference:
Ibn Bāz – Majmūʿ al-Fatāwā wa al-Maqālāt, 19/284
