Standing Firm Against Riba: My Struggle
As a single woman, I'm often seen as past the 'usual age' for marriage in my community. Recently, a proposal came from a man working at a bank. I turned it down because riba is clearly forbidden in Islam, and it's a major sin. My family, though, really wants me to accept. I've tried explaining it's from the Quran, but now they say hurtful things-that I'm arrogant, that soon no one will want me, that I'm not pretty or skilled enough to 'act proud.' They warn that pride leads to a bad end and I'll never find a good spouse. It hurts so much. I didn't invent this rule; Allah commands us to avoid riba. Yet they remind me of my past mistakes and say life isn't simple, that my choices will bring suffering. Honestly, I'm confused. I've done wrong many times, even major sins, and I feel terrible guilt whenever I remember. For three years now, I've been working to rebuild my connection with Allah. I pray regularly, seek forgiveness, and stopped listening to music. After all this effort, I can't knowingly disobey Allah again. Yes, I still slip up sometimes. I'm trying. But I believe if income comes from riba, even prayers might not be accepted. How could I marry someone earning that way? I've already sinned enough; I won't walk into another major sin knowingly. I've even prayed to Allah not to send proposals from bankers or incompatible matches. Yet for four years, almost every offer has been from bankers, mismatched men, or someone I liked who rejected me. This pattern repeats, and I'm worn out. My family is tired of me too. They've always been harsh, but now living with them feels unbearable. Marriage seems like the only escape. If I married this banker, life might get easier… but I refuse to disobey Allah and knowingly commit a major sin. They call me unrealistic, saying I'll never find the person I want. I feel hopeless, with so many panic attacks. I fear their words might be true. Still, I hold onto hope that Allah will grant me something better. I trust in 'La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah.' If Allah aided Musa (AS), He can help me too. I know I'm not like the Prophets. I lack patience, and I cry easily when people say negative things. I sin daily, but I believe Allah's mercy surpasses all. They say I'm delusional for thinking this… am I really?