Purity: Is It Permissible to Borrow for Extravagant Mourning Customs?
Practical Laws of Islam as per the teachings of Imam Khamenei
Purity: Is It Permissible to Borrow for Extravagant Mourning Customs?
English:
Question #244:
It is a custom among some tribes to borrow money, on the death of some persons, for buying a large number of sheep (which causes a substantial loss) to feed all who participate in the mourning ceremonies. Is it permissible to incur such a burden for complying with the customs?
Answer #244:
If the cost of preparing the food is being borne by the adult heirs of the deceased and with their consent, it is permissible. However, if this act results in financial loss and problems, it is to be avoided. In case the money is to be spent from the deceased’s estate, the spending should be according to the provisions of the will. In general, one should avoid any kind of extravagance that may result in wasting the Divine bounties.