Q: Whilst dealing with financial institutions mainly banks, often we are invited to attend functions hosted by these institutions. Are we allowed to eat and drink of that which is served to us (Food is 100% Halaal certified )? My question is not relating to the source of the food but the source of the money that paid for the function. Some of these banks do offer Islamic banking, so one may be involved in the Islamic banking side however when they do have functions majority of the time it is a general client invite. I am relating this question to all conventional banks in South Africa like FNB, ABSA, STANDARD BANK, HBZ BANK, AFRICA BANK….. Your advice would be much appreciated.
A: The majority dealings of all conventional banks are in total contradiction with the laws of Shari’ah. Their main operation revolves around interest and usury. Generally these functions are aimed towards marketing their riba based schemes and products and promoting interest in the world. Let alone consuming the food at such a function, it does not behove a Mu’min to be present for such meetings and functions. Being present in a bank or a bank meeting can be compared to being present in a piggery. Even if some of the products which are sold at the piggery are halaal, it is disgusting for one to be present in such a despicable place.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Zakaria Makada
Checked & Approved:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)