Can I Disobey My Mother’s Choice of Career for Me?

Question

I started studying accountancy almost two years ago. Now I realize that I’m required to record, witness, and advise companies to take riba-based loans as an accountant later.

All these things are haram, and I don’t want to do it in the future. I thought about finishing this study and working at a halal company, but it’s almost impossible in Holland because nearly every company deals with riba. I also need internships with selected companies to finish my study, so I can’t escape dealing with riba if I pursue this career and try to complete this study.

I know that studying accountancy is halal, but I’m sure I will fall into significant sins if I pursue this study and work as an accountant later. As a result, I lost interest in studying, which my mother wanted me to pursue.

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.

Studying and practicing accounting is permissible and does not necessarily involve interest. Most companies are involved in interest, but that does not necessarily implicate everyone.

Instead of defying your mother’s choice, perhaps you would find more incredible blessings by consulting with her and others who could assist in reasoning with her about a choice. They may also give you a different perspective, allowing you to see the benefits of sticking with your current studies. We pray that Allah guides you to and with beneficial knowledge for this world and the next.

Related:
Is It Permissible to Work on the Projects of a Riba (Usury) Based Bank?
How to Avoid Riba (Usury): A Reader

I pray that this benefits.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan.

Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Mawlana Yusuf Karaan, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.

He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has served as the Director of the Discover Islam Centre and Al Jeem Foundation. For the last five years till present, he has served as the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.

Shaykh Irshaad has thirteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic online learning and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy living and fitness.