Yazid Maula Al-Munba'ith heard Zaid bin Khalid al-Juham saying, "The Prophet (ﷺ) was asked about Luqata. He said, 'Remember the description of its container and the string it is tied with, and announce it publicly for one year.' " Yazid added, "If nobody claims then the person who has found it can spend it, and it is regarded as a trust entrusted to him." Yahya said, "I do not know whether the last sentences were said by the Prophet (ﷺ) or by Yazid." Zaid further said, "The Prophet (ﷺ) was asked, 'What about a lost sheep?' The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 'Take it, for it is for you or for your brother (i.e. its owner) or for the wolf." Yazid added that it should also be announced publicly. The man then asked the Prophet (ﷺ) about a lost camel. The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Leave it, as it has its feet, water container (reservoir), and it will reach a place of water and eat trees till its owner finds it."
Lost Things Picked up by Someone (Luqatah) - Sahih al-Bukhari 2428
This hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari addresses the Islamic rulings concerning found property (luqatah), demonstrating the Prophet's wisdom in differentiating between various types of lost items based on their nature and capacity for self-preservation.
General Ruling for Found Items
The Prophet instructed the finder to carefully note the container's description and the tying string, then publicly announce the finding for one full year. This preservation period ensures ample opportunity for the rightful owner to reclaim their property.
Yazid's addition clarifies that if no claimant appears after one year, the finder may utilize the property, though it remains a trust (amanah) in their possession, meaning they remain liable if the owner later appears.
Specific Rulings for Animals
For lost sheep: The Prophet permitted taking it since it cannot protect itself from predators like wolves. The finder should care for it, as it benefits either the finder, the owner, or prevents its destruction by wild animals.
For lost camels: The Prophet prohibited taking them, as camels can sustain themselves with their strong feet, water storage capacity, and ability to find nourishment. They can survive until the owner retrieves them, making interference unnecessary.
Legal Wisdom and Principles
This hadith establishes important Islamic legal principles: preservation of property rights, consideration of an item's nature in determining rulings, the obligation to safeguard others' property, and the importance of making sincere efforts to return lost items to their rightful owners.
The differentiation between various types of lost property demonstrates the Shariah's practical approach to real-world situations, balancing the rights of owners with practical considerations for the preservation of property.