"The messenger of Allah said: 'Gold for gold, of equal measure; silver for silver, of equal measure; salt for salt, dates for dates wheat for wheat, barley for barley, like for like. Whoever gives more or takes more has engaged in Riba."' (Sahih)The wording is that of Muhammad Yaqub did not mention - "Wheat for wheat".
Commentary on the Prohibition of Riba in Barter Transactions
This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i (4564) establishes the fundamental principles governing the exchange of specific commodities known as "ribawi items" in Islamic commercial law. The Prophet ﷺ explicitly prohibits interest (riba) in six specified commodities: gold, silver, wheat, barley, dates, and salt.
The Wisdom Behind This Legislation
Scholars explain that these commodities were selected either because they serve as monetary standards (gold and silver) or as essential food staples. The underlying wisdom ('illah) is that these items are either used as currency or are measurable/weighable food items that can be stored.
When exchanging identical commodities (gold for gold, wheat for wheat), the transaction must be equal in measure and simultaneous in delivery. Any excess or delay constitutes riba al-fadl (excess interest) or riba al-nasi'ah (delay interest), both strictly forbidden.
Legal Implications and Contemporary Application
This hadith forms the basis for Islamic finance principles regarding currency exchange and commodity trading. Modern scholars apply these rules to paper currency, considering them subject to the same regulations as gold and silver due to their function as monetary standards.
The requirement for equal measure and immediate exchange prevents exploitation and ensures fairness in commercial transactions, protecting both parties from hidden interest that may masquerade as legitimate trade.