What did the Holy Prophet (SAW) abolish during the Farewell Sermon (Khutbah Hujjat-ul-Wida)?

During the Farewell Sermon (Khutbah Hujjat-ul-Wida), delivered in the 10th Hijri during the Hajj at Mount Arafat, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) addressed the Muslim Ummah with his final guidance, summarizing the principles of justice, morality, and equality. One of the most significant declarations in this sermon was the abolition of interest (Riba). Riba, or usury, was a widespread practice in pre-Islamic Arabia, allowing the rich to exploit the poor through excessive and unjust financial demands. By prohibiting Riba, the Prophet (SAW) ensured economic fairness and social justice, protecting vulnerable members of society from financial oppression.

Alongside this, the Prophet emphasized several other key principles during the sermon, including the equality of all humans regardless of race or social status, the sanctity of life and property, and respect for women. Although the Prophet (SAW) highlighted the importance of ending revenge killings and promoting ethical treatment, the explicit act he abolished during the sermon was interest (Riba), making it a landmark moment in Islamic economic and social law.

The abolition of Riba was revolutionary because it replaced exploitative economic practices with a system based on fairness, transparency, and moral responsibility. This directive laid the groundwork for Islamic financial ethics, which continue to guide Sharia-compliant banking and lending practices today.

For students of Islamic Studies and competitive exams, it is important to remember that during the Farewell Sermon, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) abolished interest (Riba). Understanding this not only helps answer MCQs accurately but also provides insight into the broader principles of justice, morality, and social welfare that Islam promotes, emphasizing the Prophet’s concern for ethical and equitable treatment of all members of society.