Episode 8

Abu Usamah – The Major Sins Series: 08 – Riba/Interest/Usury

About this lecture

In this lecture, Sheikh Abu Usamah delivers the eighth installment of his Major Sins series, focusing on riba (usury/interest) as discussed by Imam al-Dhahabi. Drawing on Quranic ayat and authentic ahadith, he explains why riba is among the gravest sins in Islam — one that incurs the direct war of Allah and His Messenger — and provides practical guidance on navigating riba-based financial systems (banking, insurance, credit cards, and student loans) for Muslims living in the West. The lecture also addresses related principles such as establishing the hujjah before judging others, the reality of jinn possession, and the often-overlooked "highest form of riba": speaking unjustly about the honor of a fellow Muslim.