What is the ruling on contracting for future benefits and services?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Leasing
Primary text
Contracting for benefits (*Manāfi'*) is permissible because the need for them is analogous to the need for tangible objects (*A'yān*). Since contracts are valid for tangible objects, contracts for benefits must also be valid. The necessity for hiring arises because not everyone owns a house, means of transport, or possesses the skill to perform certain crafts, and owners are not obligated to provide these services freely. Thus, *Ijarah* is a divinely appointed means of livelihood, especially for crafts.
Supporting text
The contention raised by some, specifically Abdur Rahman bin Al-Asamm, that *Ijarah* is impermissible due to *Gharar* (uncertainty/risk) because it contracts for benefits not yet existing, is incorrect. Such uncertainty is unavoidable, similar to contracts of *Salam* (forward sales) concerning tangible goods, as the benefits are consumed by the passing of time and must therefore be contracted for before their full realization.