A man came and asked Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) about picking a lost thing. The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Remember the description of its container and the string it is tied with, and make public announcement about it for one year. If the owner shows up, give it to him; otherwise, do whatever you like with it." He then asked, "What about a lost sheep?" The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "It is for you, for your brother (i.e. its owner), or for the wolf." He further asked, "What about a lost camel?" The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "It is none of your concern. It has its water-container (reservoir) and its feet, and it will reach water and drink it and eat the trees till its owner finds it."
Lost Things Picked up by Someone (Luqatah)
Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 2429
The Three Categories of Lost Property
The Prophet ﷺ established three distinct rulings for lost items based on their nature and capacity for self-preservation. This demonstrates the comprehensive wisdom of Islamic jurisprudence in addressing practical realities.
For general lost property: One must publicly announce it for one full year, carefully noting its distinguishing features. After this period, if unclaimed, the finder may utilize it lawfully.
The Case of Lost Sheep
Sheep possess limited ability to survive independently. The ruling "for you, for your brother, or for the wolf" indicates the finder may take possession immediately since leaving it exposed would lead to its destruction by predators or elements.
The Case of Lost Camel
Camels are strong animals capable of finding water and sustenance independently. Therefore, the finder has no right to interfere, as the camel can survive until its owner retrieves it. This protects property rights while recognizing the animal's inherent capabilities.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam al-Nawawi explains that these rulings balance the protection of property rights with practical considerations. The variation in rulings reflects the Shariah's attention to the maqasid (objectives) of preserving wealth and preventing loss.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that the one-year announcement period allows sufficient time for owners to reclaim their property while preventing indefinite burden on the finder.