I have been in conventional banking service for the last 20 years. I am aware Riba is Haraam. Is employment in conventional banking also Haraam? I am not able to get a suitable position in an Islamic Bank. I feel guilty for my last 20 years of my service in Bank, as I joined banking when I was ignorant of the Islamic ruling. What should I do in my position?

All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

Working in a bank that does not comply, in its operations, with Islamic law is not allowed. The bank worker, in this case, has either to deal directly with usury contracts himself, or to participate in carrying out such operations by helping other colleagues in writing or documentation. All this is forbidden. Allah says (what means): {Help you one another in virtue and righteousness. But do not help one another in sin and transgression. And fear Allah. Verily Allah is severe in punishment.} [Quran 5: 2]

Besides, Jaabir narrated that the Prophet said “Allah has cursed the one who consumes Riba (i.e. usury or interest), the one who gives it to others, the one who records it and the one who witnesses it (its transaction).” He added: “All of them are equal in sin.” [Muslim]

What you should do now is to do your best to find a lawful job that you could do. You should not link that job to banking or other areas. The condition should be only to find another job that is lawful and that you could carry out.

We would like to draw your attention to two points:

Firstly, saying this job does not fit me is not an excuse in front of Allah, that could save you from His anger and punishment.

Secondly, if anyone fears Allah and abides by His orders and avoids His prohibitions, then Allah will make a way out for him.

Allah Says (what means): {And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect.} [Quran 65:2-3]

Allah Knows best.