
What is Karz-e-Hasana?
May you be rewarded for the taxes. The meaning is, To give someone an interest-free, selfless loan for the sake of Allah's pleasure., where there are no extra profits, conditions, or pressure.
This is neither a donation nor a business, but rather standing by a Muslim brother or sister in their time of need.
In Karaya Hasanay, there is only one purpose:
To please Allah and alleviate human suffering.
The Importance of Hasanah in the Qur'an
Allah, the Exalted, has likened the reward of good deeds to a transaction with Himself; this is its greatest honor.
“Who is it that will lend to Allah a good loan (qard al-hasan)? Then Allah will increase it for him many times over.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 245)
In another verse, Allah says:
“If you give Allah a good loan, He will double it for you and forgive you.” (Surah At-Taghabun: 17)
Here, “borrowing from Allah” means helping Allah's servants.
The Virtue of Hasanah in the Hadith of Karz
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
“Whoever lends to a Muslim twice is equal to giving charity once.”(Ibn Majah; Hasan Hadith)
In another hadith it is narrated:
“On the Day of Judgment, Allah will help the servant who helped people in this world.”(Sahih Muslim)
Why is Karz-e-Hassan so beneficial?
1. Multiplied reward from Allah
Allah Himself has promised that He will repay this debt many times over.
2. Forgiveness of Sins and Blessing in Livelihood
Zakat softens the heart, forgives sins, and brings blessings to one's sustenance.
3. Builds love and trust in society
It strengthens the relationship between the rich and the poor and reduces violence and hatred.
4. A Halal Alternative to Avoid Interest
Zakat protects a person from the path of forbidden interest.
How can one perform the Hadith of the Prophet (peace be upon him)?
1. Start with a selfless intention.
Be firm in your mind: I am doing this for Allah, not for gain.
2. No interest or additional conditions will be imposed.
It is forbidden to impose any additional conditions.
3. Lend according to your ability.
It's okay if it's small; Allah looks at the intention.
4. Be flexible with time
Extending the deadline to a borrower in distress is a virtuous act.
“Whoever shows leniency to an insolvent person or forgives them, Allah will protect them from the torment of the Day of Judgment.” (Sahih Muslim)
5. Forgive the debt if you want.
Forgiving a debt, if you are able, is a great act of charity.
Advice for Children: How They Can Begin Good Deeds
My dear children,
You may not be able to pay large sums of money right now, but you don't need substantial assets to start earning interest.
Here's how you can get started:
- Set aside a little money from your pocket money.
- Lend any friend a book, a notebook, or any necessary items.
- Help someone with their studies or skills.
- Never use harsh language when lending money to someone.
- Remember, Allah Himself will repay this favor.
Remember,
You never become poor by helping people.
Lending for Allah never causes any loss.
I want you to be people through whom others are kept away from forbidden paths and whom Allah is pleased with.
I also tell the elders: make the intention to give Zakah al-Fitr at least once in your life, for the sake of Allah's pleasure.
A karz-e-hassan is not just a financial transaction; it is Expression of Faith, Compassion, and Social Responsibility.
Whoever stands by others trusting in Allah, Allah never leaves them alone.
May Allah Ta'ala grant us all the ability to make good loans and bless our wealth. Ameen.