I am an author, and I have books stored with me. Is it permissible to pay my zakat in the form of books containing beneficial knowledge for poor students, such as chemistry and mathematics, or religious books that spread Islamic sciences?
Zakat on wealth must be paid in cash from the wealth itself. Therefore, you should pay your zakat in monetary form so that the poor can purchase what they need. And Allah Knows Best.
Is it permissible for a man to wear transparent clothing?
It is not permissible for a man to wear transparent clothing that reveals his 'Awrah (the area that must be covered). The 'Awrah of a man is "from his navel to his knees", and modesty is more prudent. And Allah Knows Best.
What should one who forgot to offer the second Sajda during congregational prayer, and remembered it before the end of the prayer do?
All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of The Worlds. Whoever forgets a pillar of prayer while in congregation must follow the lead of the Imam, and after the latter offers Tasleem, he should offer one Rakah, then perform Sujood As-Sahw (prostration of forgetfulness). And Allah Knows Best.
What is the ruling on taking a loan from an interest-based bank (a usurious bank) to buy an apartment for housing, noting that I am renting at a high amount relative to my income, and I am an employee? Also, considering that the conditions of Islamic banks are strict, and I cannot obtain the full amount from them, is it permissible to take a loan to purchase an apartment or not? May Allah reward you.
Usury (interest) is prohibited by Islamic law, and the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, cursed the one who consumes usury, the one who pays it, its recorder, and its witnesses. Whoever leaves something for the sake of Allah, Allah will compensate them with something better and greater, and Allah will provide relief after hardship. Needing a place to live does not permit taking a loan with interest. And Allah Knows Best.
