I have recently completed my MBA and am applying for jobs. I have an offer from a local bank which also has an Islamic Division. Is it lawful to join a bank or any Islamic bank? I am confused and would appreciate an urgent reply, since I have to submit my Willingness/Unwillingness in few days time.

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. We ask Allaah to exalt his mention as well as that of his family and all his companions.

If you will work in the Islamic division of the bank which is totally separate in its transactions from the usurious bank, and if this division functions according to Islam under the supervision of a trustworthy scholars' committee, then you may work there. But, if the name 'Islamic' is just a name, or the dealings are mixed with the usurious bank then working there is not allowed.

Allaah Knows best.