“Debt and Borrowing in the Prophetic Sunnah in Response to the Wave of Living Inflation: A Thematic, Analytical, and Educational Hadith Study”

Document Type : Original Article

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Lecturer in Hadith and its Sciences, Faculty of Islamic and Arabic Studies for Girls in Damanhour, Al-Azhar University.

Abstract

This research explores the issue of debt and borrowing in light of the Prophetic Sunnah, in response to the growing phenomenon of financial hardship resulting from inflation and rising living costs. The study adopts a thematic, analytical, and educational Hadith-based approach to offer insight into how the Sunnah governs borrowing in both principle and application, while addressing its social and ethical implications in times of economic distress.
The study gathers and authenticates relevant Hadiths, examining their linguistic and contextual meanings, and extracts their practical guidance on financial responsibility. It outlines the conceptual framework of debt in Islamic tradition, the distinction between legitimate and blameworthy borrowing, and the behavioral and moral obligations tied to it—especially the sincere intention to repay and avoiding excessive or unnecessary debt.
Moreover, the research emphasizes the Prophet’s ﷺ ethical model in dealing with debtors: encouraging patience, granting deferment, and promoting a culture of financial compassion. These Prophetic teachings are presented as a foundation for building a cohesive and supportive Muslim society during times of economic crisis.
The study concludes that the Prophetic Sunnah offers a balanced methodology that integrates legal, moral, and social perspectives. It promotes mindful financial conduct based on prudence, honesty, and communal solidarity—values that remain urgently relevant in today’s economic realities.

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