Chapter: The Rulings on Rahn (pledges)

Linguistically, the term rahn conveys the ideas of firmness and permanence; the Arabs say, “māʾ rāhin,” meaning stagnant water.

Legally, rahn is the act of securing a debt with a specific piece of property from which the creditor may recover the debt—either from the item itself or from its sale proceeds; that is, designating a valuable asset as collateral for a debt.

Pledging is sanctioned by the Quran, the Sunnah, and the unanimous agreement of the scholars.

Allah the Exalted says, “And if you are on a journey and cannot find a scribe, then a retained pledge may suffice.” (Q 2:283)

The Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—passed away while his coat of mail was held in pledge.

The scholars concur that pledging is permissible during travel, and the majority maintain that it is likewise permissible while one is resident.

The wisdom behind its legislation is the preservation of property and protection against loss.