Answered by Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Question
I have a much-loved group of Muslim friends. In recent years, some have taken out conventional mortgages. They either have a fatwa from someone or feel it is the best they can do in their situation. Can I continue the friendship and visit them in their homes? If so, do I have a duty to continue to speak to them about it?
Answer
I pray you are well.
Yes, it is permissible to maintain your friendship with these people. They have either made a mistake or followed a position they felt was sound. Although we consider the position of impermissibility to be the correct one in this matter, it does not render them people undeserving of mercy and kindness.
You may visit their homes and continue your friendship with them. You don’t have to keep bringing the matter up; however, if the opportunity arises, advise them to turn to Allah and repent. Maybe your sincere concern and encouraging words will inspire them to do so, and they could bring much good to their lives. After all, “Someone who repents from a sin is like the one who has no sin.” [Tabarani, al Mujam al Kabir]
May Allah grant you the best of both worlds.
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani