Is what the questioner did—taking a sum of money from his friend based on participation in a deal, without specifying a profit amount, and his inability to return the sum yet—considered usury (riba) or unlawful (haram)? And is it considered usury (riba) or unlawful (haram) if he asks him to keep the money to buy another deal and give him profits, while his financial distress continues and he is unable to be frank with his friend?
What the questioner did is forbidden lying and cheating. He must repent from it, inform his companion of what happened, and seek his forgiveness for this injustice. The money is guaranteed upon him for its owner, and he is only obligated to return its equivalent without any increase.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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