Is it permissible to take interest from government banks on deposits? Are prizes from bank raffles permissible? Does a father have the right to demand that his son repay the expenses of his studies abroad?

1. Banking interest is usury (riba) and is impermissible for the depositor. It must be taken and spent on general Muslim welfare. It is not permissible to leave it for the usurious bank.

2. The father is not obligated to pay for his son's education expenses abroad. If he pays them as a voluntary act, he has no right to demand their return except as a matter of filial piety and reward. If he pays them on the condition of repayment and the son agrees, then the son must repay them. However, if he pays them without informing the son, then the prevailing custom in the community should be consulted.