Prophet Muhammad (SAW) forbade usury and interest on money lending. Usury eats away wealth and destroys the economic systems throughout history. Just as in the teachings of the prophets of old, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) held that such practices were most evil and must be avoided in order to be at peace with the Almighty Allah. Those who eat usury (deal in interest) will not stand (on the Day of Resurrection) except like the standing of a person beaten by Satan leading him to insanity. That is because they say: “Trading is only like usury,” whereas Allah has permitted trading and forbidden usury. So whosoever receives an admonition from his Lord and stops eating usury shall not be punished for the past; his case is for Allah (to judge); but whoever returns to dealing in usury, such are the dwellers of the Fire – they will abide therein. Almighty Allah will destroy Riba (usury) and will give increase for charity, alms, etc. And Almighty Allah does not like disbelievers, sinners. Truly those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and perform Salat, and give Zakat, they will have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. “You who believe! Be afraid of Almighty Allah and give up what remains (due to you) from usury, if you are believers. And if you do not do it, then take a notice of war from Almighty Allah and His Messenger but if you repent, you shall have your capital sums. Deal not unjustly, and you shall not be dealt with unjustly. (Quran) Prophet Muhammad (SAW) did not allow gambling and intoxicating drinks (alcohol).
“The first order was for the followers of Prophet (SAW) to leave off drinking while engaged in worship, then came stronger orders to leave drinking all together. Thus, offering a time for the early Muslims to break off from their addiction to strong drink.”
The idea of getting something for nothing is not the proper way of life prescribed by the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). It is well established the damage gambling causes to families and even mental health. The alcohol causing diseases, losing the consciousness, and ruining a person’s health is often attributed to be the cause of many traffic accidents resulting in property damage, injuries and deaths. The first order was for the followers of Prophet (SAW) to leave off drinking while engaged in worship, then came stronger orders to leave drinking all together. Thus, offering a time for the early Muslims to break off from their addiction to strong drink. “People ask you (Muhammad) about alcohol and gambling. Say, ‘There is great sin in both of them and (some benefit) for humans, but the sin is greater than any benefit from them.’ And they ask you what they should spend (for charity, etc.). Say, ‘Whatever is above your basic needs.’ So, Almighty Allah makes it clear to you His Laws in order for you to give thought.”(Quran) “O you believers! Intoxicating drinks, gambling, fortune telling, etc. is the work of the devil. So stay away from all of that horrible stuff, that you will be successful.” “The devil only wants to create hatred between you with intoxicants (alcoholic drinks, etc.) and gambling and to keep you from the remembrance of Almighty Allah and from your proper worship (prayers). So, why won’t you away from them?”(Quran)
