By Bilesanmi Abayomi
In a compelling and thought-provoking Friday Jumat service held at the NASFAT Islamic Centre in Ota Ona annex, Imam Alli Bolaji Atunrase, a renowned scholar, emphasized the profound impact of debts on individuals’ spiritual journey and well-being. Speaking during the live weekly sermon, Imam Alli delivered a powerful message on the consequences of debts and its implications in the afterlife.
Imam Alli began by citing verses from the Quran, stating that anyone who is martyred in God’s cause will find a place in Paradise. However, he strongly emphasized that those slain in Allah’s cause while being indebted may not enter Paradise. He highlighted that even those who have been guaranteed a place in Paradise may be deprived of it if they are burdened with debt.
The Imam expressed concern over the nonchalant attitude of some debtors who proudly claim that their lenders cannot do anything to them when they default or personally cancel a debt, only to start another one. He stressed that such behavior is sinful and cautioned against taking debts lightly.
Imam Alli also drew attention to the issue of employers failing to pay their employees’ salaries, using excuses like the employee being a suspect. He warned that God is watching over such actions and that hereafter, these acts of maltreatment would affect their prayers, fasting, and zakat. He cautioned that their good deeds may be used to offset their debts, even if the debt is as little as N100.
Furthermore, the Imam quoted the Prophet (peace be upon him) who said that debtors will have a shortened life and a restless mind. He urged Muslims to avoid rushing funeral prayers and burial without ascertaining if the deceased was indebted. He implored Muslim clerics to ensure that proper arrangements are made before the burial.
Imam Alli advised Muslims to keep records of their financial dealings, as mentioned in the Quran, and to register daily transactions, debts, and repayments with a witness. He urged them to exercise patience and avoid unnecessary debts, as debts often lead to stress, fear, high blood pressure, and other health issues.
The Imam described debtors as “munafiqs” or hypocrites who lack rest of mind, often resort to lying, and evade their responsibilities. He revealed that debtors would often make promises to repay but fail to do so, causing further strain on their relationships.
Imam Alli Bolaji Atunrase concluded his sermon by urging anyone who is financially capable to unconditionally write off debts owed to them. He mentioned that generous lenders could convert a debt into Zakat ( an annual tax on Muslims to aid poor people in the Muslim community) to alleviate the burdens of debtors.
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