Chapter on Luqaṭa (Lost Property)

Luqaṭa is a trust, provided the finder testifies that he has taken it only to safeguard it and return it to its owner. If its value is less than ten dirhams, he must announce it for a few days; if it is ten dirhams or more, he must publicize it for a full year.

If the owner appears, the property is restored to him; otherwise, the finder gives it in charity. Should the owner later come forward, he has the choice: either to approve the charity or to hold the finder liable.

It is permissible to pick up a stray sheep, cow, or camel.

If the finder spends on the animal without the judge’s permission, his spending counts as voluntary charity; but if he spends by the judge’s order, the amount becomes a debt on the owner.

When the matter is brought before the judge, he investigates: if the animal can generate benefit, he has it hired out and pays its expenses from the hire; if it has no useful function and he fears that its upkeep will consume its value, he orders it sold and instructs the finder to safeguard the proceeds; and if the better course is to maintain the animal, he authorizes that maintenance and records the cost as a debt on the owner.

Once the owner presents himself, the finder may withhold the animal until he is reimbursed for his expenses.

The ruling on luqaṭa is the same inside the Sanctuary and outside it.

If a man then comes forward and claims