Prohibited means of earning in Islam: Prostitution

In our series of posts on Prohibited means of earning in Islam, we share our fourth post today on the subject of earning from prostitution and means related to it. 

Prostitution is one of the oldest thriving profession the world over. It is often associated with exploitation, especially when individuals are coerced into it due to poverty, lack of alternatives, trafficking, or manipulation. However, it can also be seen as a voluntary exchange between consenting adults, depending on the legal and societal contexts in which it occurs.

Before we give our view on prostitution, let us define it:

Prostitution is the practice of engaging in sexual activity in exchange for money, goods, or services. It typically involves individuals (commonly referred to as "sex workers") offering sexual services to others for financial compensation or other forms of remuneration. This practice can take many forms, including street-based prostitution, escort services, or being employed in brothels.

Since it involves selling one's body, thus honour and modesty in exchange for money, earning from prostitution and related practices is unequivocally not acceptable in Islam. Islam condemns zina (fornication), and any actions or earnings derived from illicit sexual activities are prohibited. The Qur'an and Sunnah emphasize the dignity of the human being, the protection of personal honor, and the prevention of exploitation. Prostitution undermines these values and is seen as a serious sin.

Let us now see how and why prostitution in all its forms and related means is condemned prohibited in Islam:

Prohibition of Zina (Fornication and Adultery): The primary reason that prostitution and related practices are not permissible in Islam is the prohibition of zina itself. Zina is a major sin in Islam and is explicitly forbidden in the Qur'an and hadith.

In the Qur'an, Allah commands:

• “And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:32). This verse forbids not only committing zina but also encourages Muslims to avoid anything that could lead to such actions, which includes engaging in prostitution.
• Surah An-Nur (24:2) also states: “The [unmarried] woman and the [unmarried] man guilty of unlawful sexual intercourse – flog each of them with a hundred stripes...” The punishment of zina is mentioned as a serious deterrent to this behavior, further highlighting the sinfulness of engaging in illicit sexual relations.

In the Sunnah, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

• “There is nothing more deserving of Allah’s punishment than a person who commits illegal sexual intercourse.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
• The Prophet's ﷺ warning underscores the severity of the sin and the importance of avoiding any actions that promote or facilitate such behavior.

Earning from Prostitution is Forbidden: Since zina itself is strictly prohibited, it follows that earning money through prostitution or any related activities is also haram (forbidden) in Islam. Any activity that facilitates, promotes, or is based on illicit sexual relations is regarded as unlawful.

The Qur'an:

• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:275):
•  “Those who consume usury will not stand except as stand one whom the Devil has driven to madness by [his] touch.”
• While this verse specifically refers to usury (riba), the underlying principle is clear: Islam strictly forbids any means of gaining wealth that is built upon sin or immoral activities. Just as earning through usury is prohibited, so too is earning through illicit sexual activities.
• Surah At-Tawbah (9:34-35):
• “O you who have believed, indeed, many of the scholars and the monks devour the wealth of people unjustly and avert [them] from the way of Allah…”
• This verse highlights how wealth gained through injustice or wrongdoing, including sexual exploitation, is sinful. This can be extended to earning money from prostitution, as it involves exploiting others in an immoral way.

In the Sunnah, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ explicitly condemned the act of prostitution and anything related to it. He said:

• “Allah has cursed those who do zina, those who take money for it, and those who engage in zina.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

The Prophet ﷺ made it clear that those who engage in the act of zina, or those who profit from it (such as pimps, brothel owners, or individuals in the business of facilitating prostitution), are cursed.

Prostitution and Exploitation: In Islam, exploitation of others for financial gain is not permissible, especially when it comes to sexual exploitation. Prostitution often involves exploitation of the poor, vulnerable individuals, and those who are coerced into such acts due to circumstances beyond their control. Islam teaches the value of human dignity and the importance of safeguarding personal honor.

The Qur'an:

• Allah says in Surah Al-Isra (17:70): “And We have certainly honored the children of Adam…”

Islam promotes the dignity, respect, and honor of every individual, and prostitution directly contradicts these values, as it reduces people to objects for physical pleasure.

• In Surah An-Nisa (4:29), Allah forbids harming others for personal gain: “O you who have believed, do not consume each other’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].”
• This verse reinforces the idea that gaining wealth at the expense of others' dignity and rights is unjust and forbidden.

Running and operating a brothel: Not only prostitution is prohibited but also running and operating brothel too is prohibited. For such operators aid exploitation of the people into prostitution to earn money. Even otherwise morally it is an detestable act of earning money that stems from fornication which is strictly prohibited.

Alternatives and Solutions in Islam

Islam emphasizes honor and protection of the individual. If someone is involved in prostitution, Islam teaches them to seek repentance, change their behavior, and turn to Allah for forgiveness.

• Repentance (Tawbah): 
• Islam encourages sincere repentance for those who have fallen into sinful behavior. Allah promises to forgive those who genuinely regret their actions and seek to change their ways:
• Surah At-Tawbah (9:104): “And know that Allah accepts repentance from His servants and that He is the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful.”
• The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “The one who repents from sin is like the one who did not sin.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
• Those who have been involved in sinful behavior, including prostitution, are encouraged to repent and leave such activities. Through sincere repentance, they can return to a righteous life.
• Helping the Needy: Islam advocates for programs that help individuals escape from poverty, coercion, or exploitation. This can include providing education, employment, social support, and services to help people live dignified lives.

Prostitution is generally attributed to poverty and also exploitation of the poor. Left out or poor women who cannot find work or even find work are subjected to sexual  harassment and exploitation. That is why the institution of Zakat / Charity is one of the five pillars of Islam to help the needy and give them a decent life lest they are forced to sell their bodies to make their ends meet. In a Muslim society where individuals are forced into prostitution, other than them, those around them who fail to help them out will also be liable to questioning and Divine admonishment on day of judgement.

For those who may be involved in such activities, Islam encourages repentance, seeking forgiveness,  for mercy of Allah is far too great than the acts of individuals:

Does Allah forgive prostitutes? Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "A prostitute was forgiven by Allah, because, passing by a panting dog near a well and seeing that the dog was about to die of thirst, she took off her shoe, and tying it with her head-cover she drew out some water for it. So, Allah forgave her because of that." (Bokhari 3321)

To avert chances of individuals falling prey to prostitution, Islam promotes providing alternative means of support, such as charity, education, and employment, to prevent people from falling into such situations. This would certainly help them toward a life that honors the principles of modesty, chastity, and respect for others. 

Let us pray for these exploited people, help them out of this exploitive profession and let them live with honour and dignity. Even otherwise we should help the poor and needy lest they are compelled to opt for means that may entail selling their bodies and souls.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may like to read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to Prohibited means of earning in Islam

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Prohibited means of earning in Islam - Gambling

This is the third post in our series of posts about the Prohibited means of earning in Islam. The eralier two posts were about money earned from Beggary and Diminishing measures and weights. (You may read the earlier two posts by clicking on the link: Prohibited means of earning in Islam). Today in the third post we will dwell on the income earned from gambling.

The Qur'an and Hadiths explicitly prohibit gambling (known as Maysir in Arabic), and money earned from gambling is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam. The prohibition stems from the negative impact that gambling has on individuals and society, such as promoting greed, dishonesty, and financial instability, while also diverting individuals from the remembrance of Allah and righteous actions.

Quranic Prohibition of Gambling (Maysir)

The primary verse in the Qur'an that addresses gambling is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90), which directly condemns it along with alcohol and idols:

"O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful." (Al-Ma'idah 5:90)

Explanation of the Verse: Intoxicants and gambling are both listed together here as major societal vices that lead to harm. Gambling (Maysir) is likened to "defilement" and is considered part of the "work of Satan", emphasizing the destructive spiritual, social, and moral consequences of engaging in such practices.

The phrase "so avoid it that you may be successful" clearly instructs Muslims to stay away from gambling, highlighting that it prevents success both in this world and the Hereafter. The success referred to here is not only worldly prosperity but also spiritual well-being and salvation.

In this verse, Allah emphasizes that gambling is a tool used by Satan to sow discord, enmity, and hatred among people. It also distracts them from remembering Allah and causes individuals to waste their time, wealth, and energy on a futile pursuit.

Hadiths on the Prohibition of Gambling

Several Hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) elaborate on the prohibition of gambling and its harmful consequences. Some key Hadiths include:

1. Gambling is a form of "filth" (najis): Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"Allah has cursed the one who consumes intoxicants, the one who practices gambling, the one who steals, the one who falsely accuses someone, and the one who is a sorcerer." (Sunan Ibn Majah)

Here, the Prophet (peace be upon him) includes gambling as one of the cursed acts, similar to intoxicants, theft, and false accusations. The curse signifies that these acts are serious offenses that alienate one from the mercy of Allah.

2. Gambling is a waste of wealth: The Prophet (peace be upon him) also said:

"Whoever says: 'Let us play a game of chance,' let him know that this is part of gambling, which is haram (forbidden)." (Sahih Muslim)

This hadith further clarifies that engaging in gambling or any form of games of chance—whether with money or not—comes under the same ruling of being haram. This act involves wealth that is gained without effort or productive labor, promoting greed and unjust enrichment.

This kind of easy gain is seen as a form of deception, where people seek profits without hard work or a legitimate trade.

3. A prohibition against taking money from gambling: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

"The money from gambling is the worst of earnings. It is nothing but a waste of wealth." (Sahih Bukhari)

In this hadith, the Prophet (peace be upon him) explicitly categorizes money obtained from gambling as "the worst of earnings". This reinforces the idea that not only is gambling prohibited, but also the wealth earned through gambling is considered harmful and impure, not to be used or cherished.

Islam teaches that wealth should be earned through honest means, such as working, trading, and other legitimate forms of income.

Why is Gambling (Maysir) Prohibited?

The prohibition of gambling in Islam is rooted in several principles of Islamic ethics and values:

• It promotes greed: Gambling encourages people to seek easy and quick wealth at the expense of hard work, creating a society that values instant gratification over sustainable, legitimate income.
• It causes harm: Gambling often leads to addiction, financial ruin, and strained relationships. It can negatively affect families, causing loss of savings and sometimes even leading individuals to commit crimes to sustain their habit.

It distracts from worship: Just like intoxicants, gambling can divert attention from remembering Allah. The Qur'an and Hadith warn that anything that distracts from prayer, charity, or remembrance of Allah is a source of harm.

It fosters enmity and competition: Gambling often breeds jealousy, hatred, and competition, especially if one person wins at the expense of another, leading to disputes and animosity.

It is unfair and unjust: Gambling is based on chance and is a form of economic exploitation, where the winner gains wealth at the expense of others. This goes against the Islamic principle of fair trade and justice.

As can be seen, the Qur'an and Hadith are clear in their prohibition of gambling (Maysir). The Qur'an condemns it as an impure practice that distracts from worship and sows discord, while the Hadith elaborates on its harmful consequences, likening it to the worst of earnings and equating it with other major sins like drinking alcohol or stealing. Money earned from gambling is seen as haram because it is obtained without effort, promotes greed, and disrupts the moral fabric of society. Muslims are therefore forbidden from engaging in gambling, benefiting from it, or using any money derived from it.

You may now like to watch a very educative video on gambling with a simple approach: 2 Questions to help you identify Maysir (gambling). The reasoning and explanation given is really great, thorough and systematic that should make everyone understand gambling. 

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may like to read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to: Ref Page: Prohibited means of earning in Islam

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Tafsir References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Prohibited means of earning in Islam - Diminishing measures and weights

In one of our previous posts, Prohibited means of earning in Islam, we mentioned a number of means that are prohibited to earning money, or so MORE money, so to say. One such means is cheating customers by not ensuring complete weights and measures and thus selling less their commodities under weight but taking full money. This is something that is one of the most detestable act by Allah and such people have been waned of grave consequences.

This is very unfortunate that this ill practice continues since time immemorial and even many Muslim traders and vendors are engaged in such dealings and cheating their customers to earn a few dollars more, completely forgetting their fate when they will be presented in the Divine court on the Day of Judgement and asked why did they cheat their customers to earn more.

In the 84th verse of Surah 11. Hud of the Qur'an, mention of such people has been made:

وَاِلٰى مَدۡيَنَ اَخَاهُمۡ شُعَيۡبًا​ ؕ قَالَ يٰقَوۡمِ اعۡبُدُوا اللّٰهَ مَا لَـكُمۡ مِّنۡ اِلٰهٍ غَيۡرُهٗ ​ؕ وَلَا تَـنۡقُصُوا الۡمِكۡيَالَ وَالۡمِيۡزَانَ​ اِنِّىۡۤ اَرٰٮكُمۡ بِخَيۡرٍ وَّاِنِّىۡۤ اَخَافُ عَلَيۡكُمۡ عَذَابَ يَوۡمٍ مُّحِيۡطٍ‏  

(11:84) And to (the people of) Midian We sent their brother Shu'ayb. He said: 'My people! Serve Allah; you have no god other than Him. And do not diminish the measure and weight. Indeed I see that you are prospering now, but I fear for you the chastisement of an encompassing day in the future.

Context of the Verse: The people of Midian were known for their prosperity but also for their unethical behavior, especially in trade. They had wealth and success, but they were also engaging in fraudulent practices such as cheating in measurements and weights, which is seen as a violation of fairness and justice. They also worshipped idols and engaged in other forms of social injustice.

Shu'ayb was sent to guide them back to righteousness, urging them to turn to Allah alone, to stop their dishonest practices, and to prepare for the inevitable reckoning of the Hereafter. Despite his efforts, the majority of the people rejected him, and as a result, they faced the divine punishment.

"And do not diminish the measure and weight.":

This part of the verse refers to a specific form of corruption that the people of Midian were engaged in: dishonesty in trade. They would cheat others by giving less than what was owed in terms of weight or measurement, thus exploiting others for personal gain.

The prohibition of diminishing measures and weights is a general principle of justice and fairness in all transactions. It highlights that corrupt practices in business, like dishonesty in trade, are condemned in Islam and lead to social and economic harm.

For this very reason, the people of Midian were warned: "Indeed I see that you are prospering now, but I fear for you the chastisement of an encompassing day in the future.": Prophet Shu'ayb acknowledges the material prosperity of his people at the time. They were wealthy and had success in their trade, but he cautions them that this prosperity would not save them from divine punishment if they continued in their sinful ways.

The "chastisement of an encompassing day" refers to the day of judgment or the punishment that would befall them in the future due to their moral corruption, greed, and rejection of the divine message. The term "encompassing day" suggests that the punishment would be vast, comprehensive, and all-encompassing, affecting everyone who persisted in wrongdoing.

There is an incident where a merchant came to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) complaining about a dishonest trader in the marketplace. The dishonest merchant was using inaccurate measures to shortchange customers, specifically in terms of weight and measure. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) condemned this practice severely. He said, "Woe to the one who cheats in business." Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that the wrongdoer would face punishment on the Day of Judgment and that any form of cheating in business, especially with weights and measures, is a grave sin. "Whoever cheats is not one of us," he said, indicating the importance of fairness in business dealings. The Prophet made it clear that dishonesty in trade is a serious violation of ethical and religious principles.

Let us also read another Hadith, reported by Narrated Abu Huraira and as mentioned in Sahi Al Bukhari as Hadith number 2358: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "There are three persons whom Allah will not look at on the Day of Resurrection, nor will he purify them and theirs shall be a severe punishment. They are: -1. A man possessed superfluous water, on a way and he withheld it from travelers. -2. A man who gave a pledge of allegiance to a ruler and he gave it only for worldly benefits. If the ruler gives him something he gets satisfied, and if the ruler withholds something from him, he gets dissatisfied. -3. And man displayed his goods for sale after the `Asr prayer and he said, 'By Allah, except Whom None has the right to be worshipped, I have been given so much for my goods,' and somebody believes him (and buys them). The Prophet (ﷺ) then recited: "Verily! Those who purchase a little gain at the cost of Allah's Covenant and their oaths." (3.77) 

Key Messages from the Verse:

• Monotheism: Worship Allah alone and reject all false gods.
• Honesty in Trade: Always be fair in your transactions, not cheating or manipulating weights and measures.
• Accountability in the Hereafter: Material prosperity does not protect from divine judgment. If one persists in wrongdoing, they will face the consequences, regardless of their current worldly success.
• Divine Punishment: There is a warning about the future consequences for those who reject divine guidance and live in corruption.

Relevance to Today:

• This verse serves as a timeless reminder to be honest in dealings, maintain integrity in business, and remember that material success is temporary. 
• True prosperity is found in living in accordance with divine principles and being mindful of accountability in the Hereafter. 
• The verse also calls for vigilance against societal corruption and injustice, as these lead to collective harm and divine wrath.

Let us, our Muslim brethren adhere to complete weights and measures and not cheat others to earn Haram / prohibited means of income and be contend with less that is Halal and please Allah, rather than adding Haram to our earning and calling for the Divine anger and severe accountability in the Hereafter.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may like to read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to: Ref Page: Prohibited means of earning in Islam

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | 

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Prohibited means of earning in Islam

Islam lays a great importance on Halal (Permissible) and Haram (Prohibited) for the adoption of either makes someone a true believer and follower of Allah or otherwise. Therefore, for earning money for living and secure one's means of sustenance, Islam places significant importance on earning halal (lawful) money for several reasons, all of which are rooted in the broader ethical and spiritual framework of Islam. The concept of halal and haram (unlawful) is central to Islamic teachings, and this extends to how one earns money and sustains oneself and their family. Here are the key reasons why Islam stresses earning halal money:

1. Preservation of Moral and Ethical Values

Earning halal money ensures that a person's livelihood is obtained through honest means, free from exploitation, fraud, and oppression. The actions taken to acquire wealth directly affect a person's character and integrity. Islam emphasizes that money should not be earned at the expense of others' rights or by engaging in immoral practices like theft, bribery, or cheating.

Quranic Reference: "O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship." (Quran 2:172)

2. Spiritual and Religious Purity

Earning halal money is crucial for maintaining spiritual purity. Islam teaches that the body and soul are interconnected, and what a person consumes, including money, affects their spiritual state. Consuming haram (unlawful) wealth (such as from riba, gambling, fraud, etc.) can tarnish a person's soul and hinder their relationship with Allah.

Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "A person who earns haram and then spends it on their family or charity, it will not be accepted from them." (Sahih Muslim)

3. Accountability on the Day of Judgment

Islam teaches that everyone will be held accountable for their actions, including how they earned and spent their money. If a person earns money through haram means, they will be held responsible for that on the Day of Judgment. This is a strong motivator to seek lawful means of earning, as one wants to avoid punishment and seek Allah's mercy and forgiveness.

Quranic Reference: “Indeed, those who consume the wealth of orphans unjustly are only consuming fire into their bellies, and they will be burned in a Blaze.” (Quran 4:10)

4. Social Justice and Fairness

Earning halal money fosters social justice, fairness, and the well-being of society. Islam advocates for the fair distribution of wealth and encourages people to work hard, be honest, and engage in practices that benefit others. Haram earnings, such as from exploitation, deception, or harmful industries, can create social inequality and injustice.

Quranic Reference: “Do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful]." (Quran 2:188)

5. Ensuring Blessings and Barakah

Money earned through halal means is blessed (barakah). Islam teaches that when wealth is acquired lawfully, it will bring contentment, peace, and prosperity into one's life. On the other hand, wealth earned through haram means may bring temporary gain but can result in a lack of contentment, peace, and blessings.

Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever seeks wealth through lawful means, Allah will grant him sufficiency, and whoever seeks it through unlawful means, Allah will not suffice him." (Sahih Muslim)

6. Avoiding Harm to Society

Earning money through unlawful means, such as riba (interest), gambling, fraud, and exploitation, can have harmful effects on society. These practices foster greed, injustice, and social inequality. Halal earnings, by contrast, promote honesty, fairness, and ethical behavior, contributing to a more just and cohesive society.

Quranic Reference: “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” (Quran 5:90)

7. Respecting the Rights of Others

Islam stresses the importance of respecting the rights of others. When one earns money through unlawful means, they are often infringing on the rights of others, whether through exploitation, fraud, or taking what does not belong to them (such as in the case of theft or cheating). Earning halal money ensures that people's rights are protected and that wealth is earned in a manner that is just.

Quranic Reference: "Do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or deny the rightful claims of others." (Quran 2:188)

8. Building a Strong and Stable Economy

When individuals in society earn halal money and engage in fair, honest business practices, it contributes to the overall economic stability and growth of the community. Conversely, widespread involvement in haram practices such as gambling or fraud can lead to economic instability, corruption, and societal harm.

Hadith: “The honest, trustworthy merchant is with the Prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs.” (Tirmidhi)

9. Strengthening Family and Community

Halal money supports the well-being of the family and the community. It allows individuals to provide for their families in a way that fosters love, respect, and dignity. The wealth that is earned through halal means can be used to help those in need, contribute to the welfare of society, and fulfill charitable obligations like zakat (obligatory alms).

Quranic Reference: "And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, 'My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.'" (Quran 17:24), emphasizing the importance of providing for one's parents and family with lawful earnings.

10. Personal Integrity and Self-Respect

Earning halal money helps individuals maintain their personal integrity and self-respect. When a person earns money through halal means, they can hold their head high and take pride in their work, knowing that they have upheld their values and lived according to the teachings of Islam. Haram earnings, by contrast, can cause a person to feel guilty, ashamed, or conflicted.

Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The best of what you can eat is what you have earned with your own hands." (Sahih Bukhari)

Thus, by seeking lawful means of earning, Muslims are encouraged to live in accordance with Allah's guidance, contributing positively to their personal development, their families, and the community. While everyone knows by the prick of one's conscious what is Halal or Haram means of earnings, we list down prohibited means of earning as specified in Qur'an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This page will then serve as a Reference Page to these prohibited means of earning and each means will be separately discussed in detail in our follow up posts.

Here are some of the prohibited means of earning money as mentioned in the Quran and Sunnah:

• Beggary: Earning money by spreading one's hand in front of others and not trying to earn money by one's hands and effort falls into the prohibited means of earning. Please read our post on the subject: Warning for those who are always begging people (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)
• Diminishing measures and weights: Those in business must ensure maintaining proper weights and measurements so as to not to rob the customers of full quantity being purchased. Those who exhibit dishonesty in this regard earn a Haram earning and this is strictly prohibited in Islam. Any money earned by cheating is the unlawful and haram money. for details, please read our post: Prohibited means of earning in Islam - Diminishing measures and weights
• Consuming the Wealth of Orphans Unjustly: Taking the property of orphans or exploiting them is a serious sin in Islam. 
• Riba (Usury/Interest): Riba is one of the most explicitly prohibited forms of earning money in Islam. It involves charging interest on loans or transactions, which exploits the borrower. The Quran and Hadith speak strongly against this practice, as it is seen as unjust and exploitative.
• Gharar (Uncertainty/Speculation): Gharar refers to excessive uncertainty or ambiguity in transactions, particularly in contracts. This can include selling something that one does not own or has no control over, which creates an element of deceit.
• Fraud and Deception: Engaging in fraudulent activities or cheating others in business deals is strictly prohibited.
• Theft: Stealing is explicitly prohibited in Islam, as it involves taking someone else’s property without consent.
• Gambling (Maysir): Gambling is considered a form of exploitation, where wealth is transferred from one person to another without any productive work or value being created. Please read our post on the subject: Prohibited means of earning in Islam - Gambling
• Prostitution (Zina) and Related Practices: Earning money through immoral practices, such as prostitution or facilitating it, is strictly forbidden in Islam. Please read our post on the subject: Prohibited means of earning in Islam: Prostitution
• Selling Intoxicants (Alcohol and Drugs): Selling or dealing in substances that harm people, such as alcohol or drugs, is prohibited because they are harmful to individuals and society.
• Bribery (Rishwa): Accepting or offering bribes is prohibited in Islam because it is a form of corruption that undermines justice. 
• Making and selling idols: Any form of statues or idols meant for worship is not allowed in Islam. However, making sculptures as a form of art is admissible provided it does not induce into it the concept of idol worshipping.
• Human Trafficking and Exploitation: Any form of human trafficking or exploiting people for labor or sex is prohibited. Islam emphasizes the dignity of every human being, and such practices violate this dignity.
• Unlawful Animal Slaughter: Earning money by slaughtering animals in an unlawful way or for prohibited purposes (such as selling meat from animals not slaughtered according to Islamic law) is forbidden. 
• Engaging in Superstition or Magic: Earning money by practicing or promoting superstitions, witchcraft, or black magic is strictly prohibited.
• Palmistry and fortune telling: What lies in the future is only known to Allah. Thus indulging into business of palmistry and thereby earning money by telling people about their future is strictly prohibited.
• Misappropriation (of money when acting as a trustee): Trust assumes a great importance in Islam. If someone has been placed as a trustee then he should never misappropriate the money kept as a trust with him.

In our future posts, we will take each prohibited means of earning as mentioned above and expand the scope for better understanding and placing caution over those who indulge in practices that fall under prohibited means of earning.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

For more specific subjects based on Selected Verses from Qur'an, please refer to our reference page: Selected verse from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject. You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | 

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  In addition, other sources which have been explored. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Warning for those who are always begging from people (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Begging is the most undignified means of earning one's livelihood. There are people around us who find begging a better preposition to earn their livelihood than working and earn a respectful and dignified living. It wouldn't be wrong to say that for person who has no shame or dignity, begging is the best profession. I have seen beggars begging despite "earning" a handsome amount every day, which exceeds far from their daily requirements of sustenance. 

Always remember that their is a difference between a Dignified Poor and a Beggar. Read our following post to know the difference between a dignified poor and a beggar:

Who is a Dignified Poor “مسكين “and why should he be helped

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has strictly warned begging and has warned the beggars of very painful Divine wrath when all ends and Divine Court is established.

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 12 The Book of Zakat / كتاب الزكاة /  Chapter 35: It is disliked to beg from people / باب  كَرَاهَةِ الْمَسْأَلَةِ لِلنَّاسِ ‏ ‏‏ / as Hadith number # 1040a as under:

Hamza. son of 'Abdullah, reported on the authority of his father that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: When a man is always begging from people. he would meet Allah (in a state) that there would be no flesh on his face.

Arabic Text:

وَحَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الأَعْلَى بْنُ عَبْدِ الأَعْلَى، عَنْ مَعْمَرٍ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ مُسْلِمٍ، أَخِي الزُّهْرِيِّ عَنْ حَمْزَةَ بْنِ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ لاَ تَزَالُ الْمَسْأَلَةُ بِأَحَدِكُمْ حَتَّى يَلْقَى اللَّهَ وَلَيْسَ فِي وَجْهِهِ مُزْعَةُ لَحْمٍ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Let us now present an Explanation of the Hadith:

• The Consequences of Habitual Begging: 
• The hadith emphasizes the negative consequences for a person who makes it a habit to beg from others unnecessarily. When someone continually seeks help from others, even when they do not truly need it, they degrade their own dignity and self-respect. The Prophet (ﷺ) warned that such a person will face a humiliating condition in the Hereafter, symbolized by the image of having "no flesh on his face."
• In Islamic tradition, the face represents honor and dignity. Therefore, the loss of flesh from the face signifies a loss of honor, respect, and dignity. It is a metaphor for the humiliation and disgrace that the person will face before Allah on the Day of Judgment.
• Dependence on Allah, Not People:
• Islam encourages self-reliance, hard work, and placing one’s trust in Allah, rather than depending on people unnecessarily. While it is permissible to seek help when truly needed, begging without necessity is discouraged because it reflects a lack of trust in Allah's provision.
• The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized that a person should strive to be independent and avoid burdening others if possible. This hadith is a reminder that one's honor lies in trusting Allah and working hard to meet one’s needs, rather than relying on others through begging.
• Exceptions to the Prohibition on Begging:
• It is important to note that Islam makes allowances for those who are in genuine need. The prohibition in this hadith applies to those who beg unnecessarily or as a habit, not to those who are truly impoverished and have no means of support.
• There are other hadiths where the Prophet (ﷺ) mentioned specific cases where it is permissible to ask for help. For instance, those suffering from poverty, severe hardship, or being in a debt they cannot repay are not included in this warning.
• Encouragement for Dignity and Self-Sufficiency:
• The hadith aligns with the general teachings of Islam that encourage dignity, self-respect, and hard work. In another hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "It is better for any one of you to take a rope and bring a bundle of wood on his back (to sell it) than to ask someone who may give him or refuse to give him." (Sahih Bukhari 2074)
• This hadith reinforces the idea that even menial labor is preferable to begging, as it preserves a person’s dignity and reliance on their own efforts.

Lessons from the Hadith:

• Maintaining Dignity: Islam teaches believers to maintain their dignity and avoid unnecessary dependence on others. Habitual begging leads to a loss of personal and social honor and is discouraged.
• Trust in Allah’s Provision: One should place their trust in Allah for their sustenance and strive to earn an honest living rather than relying on others for handouts.
• Work over Begging: The hadith emphasizes that it is better to engage in work, even if it is hard or humble, rather than resorting to begging without a real need.
• Warnings for the Hereafter: The loss of flesh on the face is a symbolic punishment, showing how those who habitually beg without need will face humiliation in the Hereafter. It serves as a reminder that worldly actions have consequences in the Hereafter.

This hadith is a strong admonition against unnecessary and habitual begging, encouraging believers to maintain their self-respect, trust in Allah, and work for their sustenance. It highlights the value of dignity in Islam and teaches that one should not rely on others when they are capable of earning for themselves. It also conveys that those who engage in begging without need will face disgrace before Allah on the Day of Judgment, which is symbolized by the loss of flesh on their faces.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More