What should someone do who has accumulated business debts amounting to $30,000, is currently unable to pay them, yet has the intention to repay, and is facing pressure from creditors? Is his debt considered a curse or a test, is he considered among the Gharimeen (those in debt), and what is the way to get rid of it?

Whoever borrows for a permissible purpose and intends to repay, then becomes in hardship and is unable, he is not held accountable. His creditors must grant him respite, for Allah the Almighty says: "And if there is one in hardship, then grant him respite till ease." If his hardship continues until he dies, Allah will take charge of satisfying his creditors. This hardship is a trial from Allah, for evil and good are a trial from Allah Almighty for the servant, as Allah Almighty says: "And We test you with evil and with good as a trial." Therefore, one must be patient, seek reward from Allah, and strive to repay the debt. He may also request his debt to be paid through the 'Gharimin' (debtors) share [from Zakat].