Do not buy fruit until its good condition becomes clear, and (the danger) of blight is no more. He said: Its good condition becoming clear implies that it becomes red or yellow.
The Prohibition of Premature Fruit Purchase
This narration from Sahih Muslim 1534c establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic commercial law regarding the sale of agricultural produce. The prohibition stems from the element of gharar (uncertainty) that invalidates transactions according to Islamic jurisprudence.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars explain that "good condition becoming clear" refers to the fruit reaching a state where its quality, quantity, and freedom from defects can be properly ascertained. The mention of "red or yellow" serves as tangible indicators of ripening.
Imam An-Nawawi comments in his Sharh Sahih Muslim that this hadith prohibits bay' al-gharar (uncertain sales) where the subject matter remains unknown or speculative. The buyer's right to receive the contracted goods cannot be guaranteed if the fruit remains susceptible to blight or other damages.
Practical Application in Fiqh
This ruling applies to all fruits and agricultural products where the final outcome remains uncertain at the time of contract. Scholars extend this principle to modern agricultural contexts, requiring that crops be sufficiently developed and free from major risks before sale contracts are finalized.
The wisdom behind this prohibition protects both buyer and seller from disputes arising from uncertain outcomes, ensuring fairness and transparency in commercial transactions as mandated by Islamic economic principles.