The prizes presented from shops

Q 2: What is the ruling on participating in a cultural competition and winning an investment certificate from Al-Ahli Bank in Egypt? What is the ruling on this certificate? What should I do about the money I may receive from this certificate as it may be a huge sum of money? I pin hopes for what I may receive of rewards in the future as I am highly interested in performing `Umrah (lesser pilgrimage). What is the ruling in this regard?

A: It is not permissible to receive rewards for a competition unless it goes with what was determined by the Prophet (peace be upon him) in his Hadith. This means that competition is not permitted except in shooting and racing horses or camels as they are means for fighting in the cause of Allah. Competition in scholarly issues are included in lawful competitions because seeking knowledge are part of fighting in the cause of Allah. Moreover, the reward must be a lawful object. If the reward is unlawful as the one mentioned in the question, you will not be permitted to receive it because it is Riba (usury/interest). May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.