Should I Leave a University That Invests in Weapon Companies?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
Can I continue attending a university that invests in weapon companies benefiting Israel, knowing my tuition fees might contribute, or should I consider transferring despite the challenges?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.
Attending a university that indirectly supports unjust causes, such as investing in weapon companies benefiting oppression, is not inherently sinful for you if your primary intention is to pursue education and you are not directly involved in supporting such investments.
Indirect Contributions
Your tuition fees are part of a general fund, and you are not directly accountable for how the university allocates its investments unless you actively support or approve of such actions. Allah (Most High) says,
“No soul burdened with sin will bear the burden of another.” [Quran, 6:164]
Responsibility to Oppose Injustice
While attending, you should consider advocating for ethical investment practices within the university, such as supporting campaigns for divestment from companies that perpetuate oppression. The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said:
“Whoever among you sees a wrong, let him change it with his hand; if he cannot, then with his tongue; and if he cannot, then with his heart—and that is the weakest of faith.” [Muslim]
Transferring Universities
Transferring may be a noble act of disassociation if it is feasible and aligns with your personal and educational goals. However, it is not obligatory if doing so imposes undue hardship or compromises your education.
Practical Steps
- Awareness: Learn more about how the university’s investments operate and whether alternatives can be pursued.
- Advocacy: Engage in peaceful efforts to promote ethical policies.
- Future Choices: Consider ethical practices when choosing future institutions or employment.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Mohammad Abu Bakr Badhib
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 (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, 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 been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, 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 Prophetic living and fitness.
