Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) forbade the (people) meeting the caravan (for entering into business transaction with them), and the selling of goods by a townsman on behalf of a man of the desert, and seeking by a woman the divorce of her sister (from her husband), and outbidding (against one another), and tying up the udders (of animals), and buying of (things) in opposition to one's brother.
The Book of Transactions - Sahih Muslim 1515 d
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and peace and blessings upon His final Messenger Muhammad.
Prohibition of Najash (Outbidding Without Intent to Purchase)
The Prophet (ﷺ) prohibited najash, which occurs when a person artificially inflates the price of goods by bidding without genuine intention to purchase. This deception harms both the seller, who may reject legitimate offers, and potential buyers who pay inflated prices.
Scholars consider najash a form of fraud and deception (ghish) that violates the Islamic principles of transparency and fairness in transactions. The prohibition protects market integrity and prevents exploitation of buyers' trust.
Prohibition of Talaqqi al-Rukban (Intercepting Caravans)
The prohibition against meeting caravans outside the market prevents exploitation of merchants unaware of current market prices. Such interception denies them access to competitive market conditions and constitutes a form of preemptive exploitation.
This ruling ensures all market participants have equal access to information and prevents experienced townspeople from taking advantage of desert dwellers' market ignorance.
Prohibition of Urban Brokerage for Rural Sellers
The prohibition against townspeople selling on behalf of desert dwellers prevents manipulation where urban intermediaries might exploit rural sellers' lack of market knowledge. This protects the economic rights of less sophisticated market participants.
Scholars emphasize that this prohibition aims to eliminate information asymmetry and ensure fair pricing based on transparent market conditions rather than deceptive practices.
Comprehensive Protection of Market Ethics
These prohibitions collectively establish a comprehensive framework for Islamic business ethics, emphasizing honesty, transparency, and fairness. They prevent various forms of market manipulation and exploitation.
The rulings demonstrate Islam's concern for economic justice and the protection of all parties' rights in commercial transactions, reflecting the Shariah's comprehensive approach to social welfare.