What is the ruling on disposing of money acquired through unlawful means due to ignorance, such as bank interest and bribes? And is it obligatory to dispose of all of it, including one's home and vehicle, and start from scratch, or does sincere repentance erase what came before it, allowing these funds to be used for lawful purposes?
Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Whoever acquires wealth through unlawful means must repent sincerely and dispose of the money by spending it on general Muslim welfare or by giving it to the poor and needy. If, with this money, he purchased assets that are not specifically identifiable, such as a car or a house, he must disburse an amount equal to the unlawful money he spent on it. However, if he is repentant and poor, he may take from the unlawful money according to his needs, and it will be lawful and good for him and his poor family.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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