Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah radiyallahu anhu reported that Rasulullah Sallahu Alaihi Wassallam sought a loan for a camel, and he repaid it with a better camel, saying, “The best of you is the one who is excellent in repayment.” (Sahih Muslim)
Question:
I gave a friend a loan two years ago. Recently, I’ve been in financial difficulty and would like the money back, but my friend hasn’t made any effort to repay it. In fact, they seem to be doing well financially, even opening new shops. Am I allowed to ask for my money back now, or should I just wait?
Answer:
A. Allah Ta‘ala says in the Qur’an: “O you who believe! When you contract a debt for a fixed period, then write it down. Let a scribe write it down with fairness between you. No scribe should refuse to write as Allah has taught him, so let him write. Let the debtor dictate, and let him fear Allah, his Lord, and not diminish anything from it.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:282)
This verse emphasizes the importance of clearly recording loans and setting a specific repayment period. Doing so prevents future disputes and ensures fairness between both parties.
It is the debtor’s responsibility to honour the agreement and repay the loan. Avoiding repayment without a valid reason is considered sinful.
Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (Radiyallahu ‘Anhu) narrated that Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Delaying repayment by a wealthy person is an act of injustice.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2400)
Therefore, if the agreed-upon repayment time has passed, you are fully entitled to request your money back. If the debtor is genuinely facing hardship, it is virtuous to give them more time. However, if they are financially capable but are deliberately delaying payment, you may rightfully demand repayment without guilt.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Mufti Muhammed Hamza Farooqui
Mufti Taahir Hansa
Fatwa Department
Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)
(The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.)