Is it permissible to describe the attributes of a found item during its announcement?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Lost-and-Found Property

Book 29 · Issue 2 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is impermissible to describe the attributes of a found item when announcing it. If the description is provided, anyone hearing it can ascertain its specific qualities, thereby invalidating the description as proof of ownership, as others may share that knowledge. Moreover, this practice opens the door for someone who heard the description to falsely claim the item, take possession unjustly, and cause the item to be permanently lost to its actual owner.