Is it permissible to stipulate a greater amount or better quality in return for a loan?

Chapter on Loan (Qard)

Al-Mughni

Book of Sales

Book 12 · Issue 2 · Bab 7

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is absolutely forbidden to stipulate that the borrower must return more than what was borrowed, either in greater quantity or better quality, or to add an extra piece, even if not explicitly stipulated but intended. This prohibition applies equally if a small item is lent with the intention of returning a larger one. The general ruling is the prohibition of usury (Riba), and the allowance for unconditioned lending of food items is derived from the necessity and difficulty of precise measurement and general leniency. When intent or condition is involved, the transaction reverts to the original prohibition.