Trade with Jews: Contemporary Islamic Guidance in Light of Shariah

Source: Fatāwā ʿUlamāʾ-e-Ḥadīth – Kitāb al-Ṣalāh, Volume 1

❖ The Question​

“Is it permissible in today’s context to engage in trade with Jews, and what does Islamic law say about economic or religious dealings with them?”

❖ General Islamic Principle​

✔ Permissibility of Trade with Non-Muslims
From the Islamic perspective, trading with non-Muslims is permissible as long as:
◈ The transaction does not involve anything ḥarām (unlawful)
◈ It does not lead to harm, corruption, or religious compromise

❖ Prophetic Example​

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ himself engaged in business transactions with non-Muslims:
At the time of his passing, his armor was held as collateral by a Jewish man in exchange for thirty ṣāʿ of barley.
(Sahih al-Bukhārī and other collections)

This indicates that interactions with Jews in trade were not inherently forbidden in the Prophet’s ﷺ time.

❖ Contemporary Context​

In the modern era, many Jewish-backed entities are actively involved in hostilities and conspiracies against Muslims. Their economic gain often translates into political and military oppression of Muslim nations and causes.

➤ Therefore, Muslims should refrain from such trade that directly or indirectly empowers enemies of Islam.

➤ Boycotting their products becomes necessary when it is proven that their profits are used against Muslims.

❖ Prophetic Principle: Avoiding Harm​

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Lā ḍarar wa lā ḍirār”
“Do not harm yourself or others.”
(Sunan Ibn Mājah)

This foundational principle in Islamic jurisprudence implies:
✔ Muslims must avoid trade that results in harm to the Muslim Ummah
✔ Supporting enemies financially contradicts this ethical and religious obligation

❖ Collective Muslim Responsibility​

Muslim nations and governments should:

◈ Strengthen intra-Islamic trade relations
◈ Minimize or eliminate economic dependence on hostile groups
◈ Use platforms like the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to build collective economic strength

This fosters unity among Muslims and weakens the strategic influence of hostile forces.

❖ Advice for the Muslim Trader​

It is recommended that:
✔ Muslim traders and entrepreneurs establish partnerships with fellow Muslims
✔ Many capable and reputable Muslim industrialists exist who can provide trustworthy alternatives
✔ This approach aligns with Islamic ethics and protects the collective interest of the Muslim Ummah

❖ Conclusion​

While trade with non-Muslims, including Jews, is not inherently forbidden, in the current hostile global climate, it is religiously and ethically advisable to:

• Avoid trade that funds or empowers those harming Muslims
• Support and strengthen Muslim economic networks

This approach is rooted in Shariah, the Sunnah, and serves the broader interest of Islam and Muslims.