In Islam, the responsibilities of a young adult are defined clearly, especially once they reach the age of maturity. As young men and women approach this stage, they must ensure their sustenance and livelihood come from halal (permissible) sources. However, for some, this can pose a significant challenge, especially if the financial support they receive comes from a source that is not in accordance with Islamic principles.

One common dilemma faced by some young adults is receiving support from parents who are involved in illicit activities. A case in point is a young man, still a college student, whose father is involved in drug dealing, and he relies on this financial support. The question arises: What does Islam say about accepting money derived from such sources, and how should the individual approach this situation?

Understanding the Issue

The first point to recognize is that in Islam, the source of one’s sustenance must be lawful. The Qur’an and Hadith clearly discourage engaging in activities that harm individuals, society, or the faith, such as drug trafficking. Drugs are considered harmful as they affect the mind, health, and overall well-being of individuals and communities. Allah (SWT) has prohibited such activities in the Qur’an, emphasizing that one should avoid evil and corruption on earth.

One verse from Surah Al-Baqarah (2:60) states:
“And do neither evil nor mischief on the face of the earth.”

Similarly, in Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:64), it is mentioned:
“And Allah loveth not those who do mischief.”

Drug dealing falls under such categories of mischief that Islam explicitly condemns.

Guidance for a Son in This Situation

For a young man who is still in the process of studying and depending on his father’s support, the situation can be complex. While the financial support from a father is a right for children until they are independent, it becomes problematic when that support comes from a forbidden (haram) source.

Islamic teachings highlight that a father is obligated to provide for his children, especially when they are young or still in education. However, this provision should be from lawful income. The responsibility of parents in providing food, clothing, and shelter is outlined in the Qur’an (2:233), where Allah commands that fathers must bear the cost of such provisions in an equitable manner.

While the son may still be dependent on his father’s financial support, it is crucial that he does not engage in or support his father’s haram activities. The young man should avoid participating in the illicit work and should, if possible, work towards financial independence by completing his education, finding a lawful job, and gradually removing himself from reliance on his father’s questionable income.

Advising the Father

At the same time, it is highly recommended in Islam to advise the father, or any family member involved in illegal or harmful activities, to abandon such practices. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that part of being a good Muslim is offering sincere advice to others. This includes advising family members to abandon harmful activities and urging them to seek repentance.

In the case of a father involved in drug dealing, the son should try to gently and respectfully guide his father towards abandoning this practice. While this may be difficult, it is important to recognize that the father’s involvement in illicit activities does not change his obligation to care for his children, nor does it diminish the son’s responsibility to offer good advice.

The Qur’an mentions in Surah Hud (11:116):
“Why weren’t there, among the generations before you, persons possessed of balanced good sense, prohibiting (men) from mischief on the earth – except a few among them whom we saved (from harm) but the wrongdoers pursued the enjoyment of the good things in life that were given to them, and persisted in sin.”

This verse encourages individuals to offer wise counsel and to work towards removing evil from society, even when faced with the challenges of familial relationships.

Balancing Islamic Duties with Family Responsibility

While it is clear that the source of income must be lawful, Islam also provides leniency for situations where the son still needs the father’s support, such as when he is in school or facing hardship. At this stage of life, the son is not required to abandon his family, especially if doing so would lead to greater hardship, such as homelessness or exposure to dangerous environments. In these cases, the father’s duty to support his child remains intact.

However, it is important that the son does not support or endorse the father’s actions. Instead, he should focus on completing his studies, preparing for a lawful future career, and striving for independence. His primary focus should be to avoid engaging in the illicit activities and to continue advising his father with wisdom and patience.

Moving Forward

The ultimate goal for any young adult is to reach a point of self-sufficiency and to remove themselves from harmful influences. Once the son graduates, finds a lawful job, and becomes financially independent, it is highly recommended that he sever ties with his father’s haram business and seek alternative, halal sources of income.

Islam emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance during difficult times. It is essential to remain steadfast in one’s commitment to halal provisions and to always strive for self-improvement. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Religion is advice.” (Sahih Muslim)

By focusing on education, maintaining strong values, and offering sincere advice to family members, the young man can navigate this challenging situation while remaining faithful to his Islamic obligations.

In conclusion, the son should remain patient, focus on his education, and avoid participating in haram activities. Advising his father to leave drug dealing and seeking lawful means of sustenance is part of his duty as a responsible Muslim. This balanced approach allows for upholding family ties while ensuring adherence to Islamic principles.