Al-Bunyan: Interdisciplinary Journal of Qur'an and Hadith Studies
Vol. 3 No. 2 (2025)

The Institution of Riba: Qur’anic Prohibition, Scholarly Interpretations, and the Dichotomy between Usury and Interest

Ganaie, Bilal Ahmad (Unknown)
Riyaz Ahmad Bhat (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
06 Jan 2026

Abstract

Riba is a topic of considerable debate in contemporary scholarship. Its prohibition is central to Islamic economic and moral philosophy, serving as a foundational principle that distinguishes Islamic finance from conventional financial systems. The Qur’an characterizes riba as a source of injustice and exploitation that undermines social equity and compassion. The Sunnah reinforces its gravity by categorizing it among the most serious transgressions. This study investigates Islamic teachings regarding the prohibition of riba. Although the prohibition is explicit, some scholars have challenged the operational definition of riba and presented arguments in its favor. This research critically evaluates these arguments, examines contextual interpretations of riba within changing economic frameworks, and traces the historical evolution of the distinction between usury and interest to determine its consistency with Islamic jurisprudence. The results demonstrate that the prohibition of riba reflects Islam’s commitment to promoting justice, equity, and moral integrity in economic interactions.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

i

Publisher

Subject

Religion Social Sciences

Description

Al-Bunyan: Interdisciplinary Journal of Qur’an and Hadith Studies is peer-reviewed journal published by Hellow Pustaka Publisher. The journal is aimed to publish research contributing to the development of theory, practice, and policy making in Qur’an and Hadith Studies. It therefore intends to ...