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If you do not, then beware of a war with Allah and His Messenger! But if you repent, you may retain your principal—neither inflicting nor suffering harm.2:279
In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:279), Allah warns against the practice of usury (riba). This verse underscores the severity of engaging in usury. It is considered a grave sin in Islam, with Allah and His Messenger declaring war on those who persist in it. The verse also highlights the principle of fairness: lenders are entitled only to the original capital, without exploiting borrowers with excessive interest. Modern economists, particularly in the U.S., have warned that the interest-driven financial system will result in wealth becoming concentrated in the hands of a few, leaving the majority of people impoverished. In this context, the prohibition of riba in Islam aims to promote economic justice and prevent wealth disparity. This divine legislation stands as a safeguard against such exploitation, offering an alternative financial system based on fairness and equity. These prohibitions and the economic findings which highlight their associated risks are a great example of The Divine knowledge behind the guidelines set in Islam.