Huzoor(aba) recited verse 283 of Surah Al Baqarah (2:283) a verse that gives a comprehensive account of the Islamic rules of borrowing; beginning with the counsel to put it down in writing.
Commenting on the notion that one does not need to formalize the borrowing of ‘small amounts’ due to trust etc between people, Huzoor(aba) said that the explanation of the Holy Quran regarding the method of borrowing and repaying is deep in line with human psychology and is a safeguards against the potential of doubts arising and subsequent rifts between two parties. Huzoor(aba) explained that Islam lays the responsibility of the clarification of the terms on which the loan is taken on the person who is borrowing. This is to eliminate any subsequent grievance by them and indeed to make them adhere to the terms they have suggested. The verse goes on to address the different conditions that may arise regarding the person borrowing as well as the importance of having the transaction witnessed.
Huzoor(aba) mentioned various scenarios where people borrow money from friends/relations and treat it lightly and make excuses about repayment and said that this creates unpleasantness in society.
Quoting verse 281 of Surah Al Baqarah (2:281) Huzoor(aba) said therein is a message for those who lend money to be kind and considerate when settling accounts and an indication that if Allah were not to ‘settle’ accounts with us in a similar manner we would be in great trouble. With reference to Ahadith Huzoor(aba) explained that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) said that while the reward of sadqa is ten-fold, the reward for lending someone money is 18-fold and that Allah is merciful to one who is gentle in asking for the repayments of a loan and shall grant Paradise to one who makes repayment easy on the borrower; one who gives respite or pardons a loan shall be given shelter under Allah’s heaven on the Day of Judgment.
On the other hand, the model illustration of one who borrows the money is not to make excuses at the time of repayment and to repay in the best possible manner, if possible with a little extra as a sign of thankfulness. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) said that if one’s intention is sincere about repayment when borrowing money then Allah facilitates the settlement for them, he related the non-payment of loans to ‘kufr’ (non-belief) in that it gives way to falsehood, breaking of promise etc. that ultimately takes one away from the path of taqwa (righteousness).
Huzoor(aba) read a few excerpts from the writings of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) on the integrity of repayment of loans on time; he termed debt as one of the trails/calamities of the world.
Huzoor(aba) prayed that may we set excellent models of everything that Allah and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) enjoined us, he prayed that may Allah keep the Ahmadiyya Community free from the bother of troubles pertaining to debt, saying if we turn to Allah He will facilitate this for us.