Current Legal Issues

  • YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    • Ethical Matters

(Q.39) Is it permissible to steal from the unbelievers in their countries, or defraud them as they themselves do?

It is not permissible to steal from their private and public property, neither cause any damage to such property, since the said acts could tarnish the reputation of Islam and Muslims in general. Notwithstanding the above, it is not permissible, for it amounts to treachery and breach of implicit trust, when applying for entry visa or residence. Treachery and breach of trust directed against anybody is haraam.

(Q.40) Is it permissible for a Muslim to give false information to government departments in Europe to gain some financial or abstract benefits, through proper channels?

It is not permissible because it is lying; what has been mentioned in the question does not fall within its justifications.

(Q.41) A person has entered a country as a visitor and his passport was stamped that he was not allowed to work. If he works illegally and gets the money 'under the table', is it halal?

If the visa was granted against an undertaking that the person should not engage in any sort of employment during the period of his stay in the country, his infringement of the undertaking is haraam. However, this should not deny him the wages for the work; it is permissible that he has the right of disposal over it as he deems fit.

(Q.42) Is it permissible to have sexual intercourse with a woman, from amongst the unbelievers or the People of the Book, without a marriage contract, noting that their respective country is in a state of war, directly or indirectly, against Muslims?

It is not permissible.

(Q.43) What is the ruling on saying assalaamu [alaikum] (Islamic salutation, meaning peace be with you) to the People of the Book or unbelievers? Also, is it permissible to send them seasonal greetings, such as on Christmas?

There is no harm in initiating the salutation, albeit makrooh (undesirable act) except out of necessity, under whose remit comes urf. Responding to their salutation should be by uttering [the word] alaik (with you). There is no harm in greeting them on their occasions.