SHOPPING SEGMENT · 26 – SALES UNDER PRESSURE
It is narrated from an elderly man of the Banu Tamim tribe that he said: Ali, son of Abu Talib, addressed us, or Ali said: There will come a time of harshness upon people, wherein the wealthy will devour what is in their hands, despite not having been commanded to be miserly. Allah (Exalted and Glorified) has said: “Do not forget the grace you have among yourselves…”
At that time, the property of one in distress will be bought and sold. But the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings upon him) forbade selling the property of one in distress, selling things with an unknown outcome, and selling unripe fruit.
**EXPLANATION:**
The sale of the distressed (*muztar*) can be interpreted in two ways: Firstly, a person is compelled to sell his property under threat, and he sells it unwillingly. Secondly, a person is forced to sell his property below its value because he is indebted. These two situations are what is meant by the sale of the distressed (*muztar*). The property of one who sells it due to distress should not be taken. If it is taken, it should be at its valued price, or assistance should be given to the person in distress through a loan. This is what humanity requires. Prohibition was also issued against selling slaves fleeing, and other things with an unknown outcome. Such transactions are considered nullified.