Answered by Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Question: Assalamu ‘Alaykum, My dad gave me a lot of money for my undergraduate studies. Do I have to pay it back?
Answer: Wa ‘alaykum assalam wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh.
I pray you are well.
If your father did not specify that this money was a loan then you are not obliged to pay it back. You can assume it was a gift.
Repaying Good With Good
Having said that, some of the best qualities one can acquire are gratitude and being appreciative. If it is possible do give it back to your father. Even if he does not accept the money he will appreciate the gesture.
The Messenger of Allah said, “Whoever does something good for you do something equivalent for them. If you’re unable to do so then pray for them until you think you have done the equivalent.“ (Abu Dawud)
May Allah grant you the best of both worlds.
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani