The Messenger of Allah granted concession for the sale of Al-‘Arāyā (unpicked ripe dates for dry dates) when they are equal to or less than five Wasqs

Explanation

Al-‘Arāyā (sing. ‘Ariyyah) refers to the case in which a man wants to eat ripe dates but does not afford it due to his poverty. However, he has dry dates that he can give in exchange for the dry dates on the tree provided the weight of the dry dates does not exceed five Wasqs. The case of Al-‘Arāyā has been made permissible as an exception to the rule of prohibition because of people's need. Therefore, the concession is given only to the amount that is usually needed, which is five Wasqs or less than that. This is because such weight is sufficient for satisfying one’s need for eating ripe dates. The basic rule of prohibition is usury of excess referred to in the Hadīth in which the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said when asked about selling fresh dates for dry ones: "Will fresh dates decrease (in weight) when it becomes dry?" They said: 'Yes.' He said: "So, do not do it."

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