Q: How does Islam view working for interest-based banks like Misr Bank or the Egyptian National Bank? Is it permissible to have such governmental jobs?

A: Prohibition of Riba (usury) has been strictly emphasized in the Qur'an, Sunnah (the Hadiths reported from the Prophet) and Ijma` (consensus of scholars). Working for banks that deal in Riba is prohibited as this involves supporting the committing of sins and transgression. Allah (Exalted be He) says, ...but do not help one another in sin and transgression. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) cursed the devourer (taker) of Riba (usury/interest), its payer, its scribe and its two witnesses. He (peace be upon him) said, “They are all equal (i.e. in sin)." The government approving of Riba and allowing the construction of interest-based banks or taking no action against these usurious banks does not serve as justification for a Muslim to accept working for them. The reason is that these banks do not have the authority to enact or legislate rules, which is exclusive to Allah through His Qur'an or through the revelation He sends down to His Messenger (peace be upon him). (Part No. 15; Page No. 52) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.