Can I Raise Money on Instagram for Personal Expenses?
Shafi'i Fiqh
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
I have an Instagram account with a large following and occasionally create designs. Can I raise money through Instagram stories to buy property or cover personal expenses?
Would this be considered sinful, or could it be a form of charity? My father is in a financial crisis, and my husband has delayed rukhsati for three years and prioritizes his family over our future. Is it wrong for me to use this money for myself?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.
Raising money through Instagram stories for personal expenses or property is not inherently sinful, but it depends on the content you are posting and the method of earning money. If these are free from unlawful elements, then using the platform as a fundraising opportunity is permissible, and Allah knows best.
Honesty in Intentions and Transparency
Islam emphasizes honesty and clarity in dealings. If you choose to raise funds, clearly state the purpose so that contributors know their money will be used for personal needs rather than assuming it is for charity. Misleading people, even unintentionally, should be avoided. Allah (Most High) says,
“O you who believe! Fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice.” [Quran, 33:70]
Using the Money for Yourself
If the funds are raised transparently, it is not wrong to use them for your needs, including buying property or covering personal expenses. However, you should consider the ethical dimension of asking for help if there are alternative means, such as seeking support from family or exploring work opportunities.
Helping Your Father and Navigating Marital Issues
Supporting your father during a financial crisis is a commendable act of filial piety. The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said,
“The best of you is the one who is best to his family.” [Tirmidhi]
Regarding your husband’s delay in rukhsati, it is important to address the matter calmly and seek resolution through family mediation or counseling if necessary. His obligation is to prioritize your rights as his wife while balancing familial responsibilities.
Conclusion
- Raising funds: Permissible if done transparently and honestly.
- Using the money: Not sinful if contributors understand it is for personal use.
- Next steps: Focus on managing your needs ethically and resolving familial issues through dialogue or mediation.
[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.
