Is it permissible for a person indebted to engage in military expedition (Ghazw)?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Jihad

Book 54 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

A person owing a debt, whether due immediately or deferred, is not permitted to participate in military expeditions except with the permission of the creditor, unless the debtor leaves sufficient funds for repayment, appoints a guarantor who can settle the debt, or offers collateral recognized by the creditor. This view is held by Shafi'i. The evidence rests on the concern that martyrdom during Jihad causes the loss of life, thereby forfeiting the creditor's right, supported by the Hadith narrated by Muslim where the Prophet (peace be upon him) was informed by Gabriel that Jihad does not expiate the debt of the deceased.

Supporting text

Malik permitted participation for those unable to settle their debts because the creditor cannot demand immediate payment or imprison the debtor for it, thus not preventing them from Jihad, similar to someone without debt.