It is not permissible to deal with bribes, either accepting them or giving them. This is a major sin in Islam. Exceptional cases are: 1- taking one’s right, 2- removing or alleviating wrongdoing, and 3- giving money to workers or offices to go to the official bodies and do what is needed.

Giving gifts is something that is encouraged, because it softens hearts and strengthens the bonds of Islamic brotherhood and sisterhood. Bribery is something that is forbidden, because of what it leads to of wrongdoing and transgressing people’s rights, and reinforcing selfishness. The difference between them is clear.

With regard to what is given in order to be able to take what is one’s due or to ward off injustice, that is not included in the prohibition on bribes. For more, please see the detailed answer.