Answered by Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Question: Assalamu alaykum
If someone lent somebody halal money and the person returns the money from a haram source. Is it okay to accept that money?
Answer: Wa ‘alaykum assalam wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh.
I pray you are well.
Yes, you can take the money from them. In general, when someone acquires money we don’t look at the actual bank notes. We look at the money that is in his possession, some of which could be from a halal source. You can assume that the repaid to you was from an alternative halal source. (Usmani, Fiqh al Buyu’)
The Messenger of Allah, Allah bless him and give him peace, told us, “Love for people what you would love for yourself.” (Ibn Majah) Being safe from the punishment for such activities is something everyone would want for themselves. Therefore, if you think it will make a difference, try advising this person in a gentle, understanding manner.
You never know, maybe your words will have a positive effect on them. Regardless, you should pray for such a person to be given the ability to get out of that situation.
May Allah grant you the best of both worlds.
Wassalam,
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim Reasat