Betrayed and Left with Overwhelming Debt

Assalaamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh,

We are reaching out to seek your support for a father, brother and friend who has found himself in a dire situation. His business partner stole from their joint business and left, leaving him solely responsible for repaying significant debts, an overwhelming burden that he simply cannot manage on his own.

This financial strain has placed immense stress on him and his family, affecting their well-being in ways that are difficult to imagine. Despite his best efforts, he has been unable to resolve this matter alone. As a community, we have an opportunity to come together and help ease his hardship.

Islam strongly encourages assisting those in financial distress, especially those burdened by debt. Allah says in the Quran:

"And if someone is in hardship, then let there be postponement until a time of ease. But if you give it as charity, it is better for you, if you only knew." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:280)

The Prophet ﷺ said:

"Whoever relieves a believer of a difficulty in this world, Allah will relieve him of a difficulty on the Day of Judgment." (Sahih Muslim 2699)

He also said:

"The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others." (Al-Mu’jam Al-Awsat, 6192 – Hasan)

Shaykh Ibn Baz said:

"There is no harm in giving zakat to someone to repay his debt, as he falls under the category of those in debt mentioned in the verse: ‘Zakat is only for the poor, the needy, those employed to collect it, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, to free captives, those in debt…’ (Surah At-Tawbah: 60)." (Majmoo’ Fatawa wa Maqalat Ibn Baz 14/278)

Similarly, Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen explained:

"A person in debt may be given zakat, even if they have enough to sustain themselves and their family for a year or more, because they are financially burdened by their debt. If a person owes a sum they cannot immediately repay, then they are considered poor in terms of their debt and are eligible for assistance." (Ibn Uthaymeen - Sharh Al-Mumti’ (6/234).)

As we are in the blessed month of Ramadan, the rewards for charity and helping others are multiplied many times over. This is a time when Allah’s mercy and blessings are abundant, and giving in charity not only helps those in need but brings immense rewards and forgiveness.

We are aiming to raise £29,530 to help ease his burden. Every contribution, no matter the amount, will make a difference. Even if you are unable to donate, simply sharing this message is a form of sadaqah.

May Allah bless everyone who contributes, grant them ease in their own affairs, and place barakah in their wealth. May He protect us all from financial hardship and reward your generosity abundantly.

The Prophet ﷺ said: “Allah is in the aid of His servant as long as the servant is in the aid of his brother." (Sahih Muslim 2699)

Jazakum Allahu Khayran.