Is it permissible to consume a lost sheep found within city limits (*al-M\[a]s\̣r*)?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Lost-and-Found Property

Book 29 · Issue 3 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Consumption of a lost sheep is permitted both in the open desert (*al-Sahra'*) and within the city limits. The ruling is the same for both locations because the Prophet's statement, "It is for you," did not differentiate based on location. Moreover, the primary justification for consumption—avoiding the expense of upkeep—is arguably stronger within the city than in the desert.

Supporting text

Malik, Abu 'Ubayd, some followers of Al-Shafi'i, and Ibn al-Mundhir assert that consumption is prohibited within the city because it is possible to sell the animal there, unlike in the desert.