According to search-discovered classical Islamic scholarship, the Quranic concept of **devouring people's possessions unjustly** (أكل أموال الناس بالباطل - *Akl amwal an-nas bil-batil*) is a major sin that forms a cornerstone of Islamic financial ethics. The principle is powerfully articulated in Surah At-Tawbah, verse 9:34, which condemns religious leaders who exploit their authority for illicit gain. Tafsir scholars like **Ibn Kathir** and **Al-Qurtubi** explain that while the verse specifically mentions rabbis and monks as contemporary examples during revelation, its warning is universal and extends to anyone who acquires wealth through false pretenses. 'Unjustly' (*bil-batil*) is a comprehensive term that includes bribery, fraud, theft, usury (riba), and selling false religious decrees. [1, 2, 4] The act is condemned not only for the financial harm it causes but because it is often coupled with 'hindering from the way of Allah,' as those who are financially corrupt often mislead people spiritually to protect their status. [1] This prohibition is a fundamental principle for social and economic justice in Islam, ensuring that wealth circulates ethically and that trust, especially in religious matters, is never violated for material gain.