1. Seek Knowledge

• Study the Islamic guidelines on permissible and impermissible earnings. Sources of halal income include lawful trade, permissible business activities, wages for work or services, and investments that comply with Islamic principles.
• Avoid sources explicitly prohibited, such as:
  • Riba (usury/interest)
  • Gambling or betting
  • Fraud, theft, or deception
  • Businesses related to alcohol, pork, or unethical activities.

Recommended Action: Consult authentic Islamic resources or seek guidance from a trusted scholar or Islamic financial advisor.

2. Self-Assessment

• Reflect on the source of your wealth and your business dealings. Questions to ask include:
  • Does your work involve haram (prohibited) products or services?
  • Are your transactions transparent and free from deceit?
  • Does your wealth involve interest (riba) or unethical contracts?

Example: If you’re employed in a bank that deals in interest-based transactions, your earnings may need scrutiny.

3. Consult a Scholar or Mufti

• If you remain uncertain, consult a qualified Islamic scholar. They can provide a clear ruling on specific situations and suggest appropriate remedies if needed.

Tip: Prepare detailed information about your income sources and business practices before seeking advice.

4. Purify Your Wealth

• If you discover that any portion of your income is haram:
  • Stop the unlawful activity immediately.
  • Calculate the haram portion and dispose of it by giving it to charity without expecting any reward. This is considered cleansing, not an act of sadaqah.
  • Strive to ensure all future income comes from halal sources.

Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Indeed, Allah is pure and accepts only what is pure.” (Sahih Muslim).

5. Avoid Doubtful Matters

• Islam advises against engaging in activities with unclear permissibility. Abstaining from doubtful sources ensures spiritual and financial integrity. Hadith: The Prophet said, “Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt.” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi).

6. Commit to Ethical Practices

• Ensure your dealings align with Islamic ethics, including honesty, fairness, and avoiding harm to others.
• If you’re in business, consider adopting Islamic finance principles, such as partnerships (mudarabah), cost-plus sales (murabaha), or lease-to-own (ijarah).

7. Make Du’a (Supplication)

• Regularly ask Allah for guidance in earning halal sustenance and for forgiveness for any past mistakes. Dua Example: “O Allah, suffice me with what You have made lawful so that I am not forced to seek that which is unlawful, and enrich me with Your grace so I am not dependent on anyone besides You.” (Tirmidhi).

8. Continuous Monitoring

• Periodically review your income and financial practices to ensure ongoing compliance with Islamic teachings.
• Maintain good company and consult those knowledgeable in Islamic finance to stay updated on what constitutes halal earnings.