Ali Ibn Abi Talib - Volume 1 of 2

'Ali ibn Abi Trilib 459
will get involved in usury, then he will get involved in usury, then he
will get involved in usury. 'Umar (&) used to hit with his stick
anyone who sat in the marketplace and did not know the rulings, and
he would say: 'No one should sit in our marketplace who does not
know about 'Ali(4)
also used to say: "No one should
sell in our marketplace except one who has acquired deep
understanding of the religion; otherwise he will consume usury,
whether he wants to or not."488
The Rightly Guided Caliphs (may Allah be pleased with them)
paid attention to aJl matters of ruling, and no one matter took up their
attention at the expense of another. Thus the situation did not go
beyond the control of the ruler. They established guidelines for trade,
which kept the market in good shape, regulated business transactions
and guaranteed stability and steadiness. There were no unfair deals,
cheating, hoarding, black market or ignorance of what was and was
not permitted in the world of trade.
It is possible today to teach traders by means of study circles in
the mosques, especially those that are located in marketplaces. It is
essential to address them by means of pamphlets and brief audiotapes
that explain the dings on business and simplify issues that have to
do with it, highlighting the following issues:
- Presenting selected examples of Muslim business owners
who are sincere to their religion and who support the cause
of Allah (fg) and His Messenger with their wealth.
- Explaining the importance of the hereafter for them so that
they may combine the good things of this world and the
hereafter.
The scholars and seekers of knowledge have an important duty
to educate this large sector of society. The Islamic movements should
not forget their duty to teach their members who are involved in
business and others about this important issue.