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Working for an Islamic Banking Section on Commercial Bank

Last updated: 15th October 2006
Question ID: #2775
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Assalamu Alaikum,

I am aware that as Muslims we are not allowed to work in a bank due to dealing/comsuming/writing/giving Riba.

My question is that I have an oppurtunity to work for HSBC Amanah ... which is the Islamic Banking Business belonging to the HSBC Bank.

My doubt is that even though I may be dealing in transactions that are within Sharia Law at HSBC Amanah (according to the related Sharia boards) ... I don't think my salary will be paid by HSBC Amanah but rather it would probably be paid by the Global HSBC Bank, whose earnings are involved in Riba.

I'm confused as to whether I can then work for HSBC Amanah if even though I'm dealing in legal transactions ... my salary may not be from illegal means

My intention was to get this career so that I could soon move on to the Arab world to set up my own business or work for an Islamic Bank there.

Can you please advise ?



Bismillah



Al-jawab billahi at-taufeeq (the answer with Allah's guidance)





It is permissible to work in principle, because it has no direct link to interest. However, the main source of the bank is Haram (interest) thus, making your income Haram.



As you have mentioned you want to gain experience. The leeway for this, is you do not accept the income from the bank, you work on a volantarily basis or you accept the income but should be spent on poor people.





And Only Allah Ta'ala Knows Best.

Mufti
Answer last updated on:
1st September 2011
Answered by:
Ulamaa ID 04
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Location: London