Lost Things Picked up by Someone (Luqatah)

Sahih al-Bukhari 2431

Hadith Text

The Prophet (ﷺ) passed a date fallen on the way and said, "Were I not afraid that it may be from a Sadaqa (charitable gifts), I would have eaten it."

Commentary on the Prohibition

This hadith establishes that the Prophet (ﷺ) and his household were prohibited from consuming sadaqah (obligatory charity). The wisdom behind this prohibition is to maintain the purity of those receiving divine revelation and to distinguish them from those in need of material support.

The Prophet's caution demonstrates the importance of avoiding doubtful matters in religion. Even though the date was found on a public road with no clear owner, he prioritized religious caution over personal desire.

Legal Rulings Derived

Scholars derive from this hadith that found items (luqatah) should not be consumed immediately but must be announced and sought for their rightful owner.

The ruling applies particularly to food items found in public spaces where charitable distributions commonly occur, as they may belong to the poor or be designated as sadaqah.

This teaching emphasizes the Islamic principle of preserving others' property and maintaining financial integrity in all transactions.

Spiritual Lessons

The Prophet's restraint teaches Muslims to avoid doubtful matters that may compromise their spiritual state, following the principle of "leaving what causes doubt for what causes no doubt."

It demonstrates the highest standard of scrupulousness (wara') where one avoids not only the clearly forbidden but also matters of uncertainty.

This incident shows the Prophet's practical implementation of his own teachings, serving as the perfect example for the Muslim community in matters of piety and caution.