Is the joint leasing of a camel by two individuals for alternating rides valid?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Leasing
Primary text
It is valid for two people to lease one camel for alternating rides ('Uqba 'ala 'Uqba). The lease fee covers the entire journey, and the division of riding time is determined by their agreement. If they dispute the division, it must be apportioned so that each receives a known number of leagues, or one rides by night and the other by day. If a local custom (*'urf*) exists regarding division, it must be followed. If they disagree on who starts, lots (*iqra'*) shall be cast between them.
Supporting text
A dissenting view suggests this joint leasing is invalid unless each individual agrees upon a specific, known duration of riding for themselves, because the contract is ambiguous relative to each party, similar to buying two slaves where each buyer must specify which one they acquire.