A new version of the Bahá’í Reference Library is now available. This ‘old version’ of the Bahá’í Reference Library will be replaced at a later date.
The new version of the Bahá’i Reference Library can be accessed here »
A new version of the Bahá’í Reference Library is now available. This ‘old version’ of the Bahá’í Reference Library will be replaced at a later date.
The new version of the Bahá’i Reference Library can be accessed here »
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The Ethics of Wealth |
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According to the Bahá’í teachings, riches rightly acquired
and rightly used are honorable and praiseworthy. Services
rendered should be adequately rewarded. Bahá’u’lláh says in
the Tablet of Tarazát:—“The people of Baha must not refuse
to discharge the due reward of anyone, and must respect possessors
of talent, … One must speak with justice and recognize
the worth of benefits.”
144
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Most of the people are found to be in need of this matter;
for if no interest be allowed, affairs (business) will
be trammeled and obstructed. … A person is rarely
found who would lend money to anyone upon the principle
of “Qar-i-hasan” (literally “good loan,” i.e. money
advanced without interest and repaid at the pleasure of
the borrower). Consequently, out of favor to the servants,
We have appointed “profit on money” to be current,
among other business transactions which are in force
among people. That is … it is allowable, lawful and
pure to charge interest on money … but this matter
must be conducted with moderation and justice. The Pen
of Glory has withheld itself from laying down its limits, as
a Wisdom from His Presence and as a convenience for His
servants. We exhort the friends of God to act with fairness
and justice, and in such a way that the mercy of His beloved
ones, and their compassion, may be manifested toward
each other. … The execution of these matters has been placed in charge of the men of the House of Justice, in order that they may act in accordance with the exigencies of the time and with wisdom. |
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