The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) cursed the one who gives a bribe and the one who receives a bribe to influence a judgment

Arabic text

عن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: لَعَنَ رَسُولُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ الرَّاشِيَ وَالْمُرْتَشِيَ فِي الْحُكْمِ.

Translation

Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) cursed the one who gives a bribe and the one who receives a bribe to influence a judgment.

Explanation

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) supplicated against those who give or take bribes to be expelled and banished from the mercy of Allah Almighty. This includes the bribe given to judges to pass an unjust ruling; thus, the giver of the bribe can reach his objective without right.

Benefits

• Giving a bribe, receiving, mediating or assisting in it is prohibited, for this is cooperation in sin.
• Bribery is a major sin, as the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) cursed those who give or take it.
• Bribery by those working in the judiciary system or holding official posts is a graver crime and sin, as it involves injustice and judging by other than what Allah sent down.

Topics

• Jurisprudence and Juristic Principles
• Judiciary
• Manners of Judges