An inquirer asks, “We kindly request a clarification of the meaning of the Prophet’s statement, “Delayed payment by a rich person is an act of injustice.”

The hadith was narrated by Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him). He that he said, “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said, ‘Delayed payment by a rich person is an act of injustice’” (recorded by Bukhari and Muslim).

 “Delayed payment by a wealthy person” means repeatedly postponing the repayment of a debt rather than paying it when it is due. It is therefore impermissible for a wealthy individual to delay repayment once the debt becomes due if he has the means to pay. However, if a person is wealthy but currently unable to repay, it is permissible for him to defer payment until he is able to do so. The hadith serves as a deterrent against such delay.[1]

We urge anyone who borrows from his brother to relieve a hardship or meet a need to return the loan graciously. It is not fitting to reciprocate the lender’s kindness with anything but kindness. Allah Almighty says, “Is the reward of excellence anything but excellence” (Quran, 55: 60).

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also said, “The best of you are those who are best in repayment” (recorded by Imam Ahmad in Al-Musnad and by Nasaʾi in Al-Sunan, with the latter’s wording). In another hadith narrated by Jabir ibn ʿAbdullah (may Allah be pleased with them both), the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said, “May Allah have mercy on a servant who is easygoing when he sells, easygoing when he buys, and easygoing when he demands his due” (reported by Ibn Maja in Al-Sunan).

And Allah Almighty knows best.