Is it permissible to sell a bulk quantity of grain (Sabrah) without knowing the exact measure or weight?
Chapter on Selling Assets and Fruits
Al-Mughni
Book of Sales
Primary text
The sale of a bulk quantity of grain, even if the seller and buyer are ignorant of its measure, is permissible. This is the view of Abu Hanifa and Al-Shafi'i, and no disagreement is known regarding this. It is permissible because it is known through visual inspection. The lack of knowledge regarding the interior of the bulk is not harmful because it is difficult to examine every single grain, and the grains are outwardly uniform, so observing the exterior suffices. This is unlike a garment, which is easily unfolded and whose parts are not uniform and require full inspection.
Supporting text
Malik ruled that this is impermissible for currency (Athman) because currency has value, and weighing or counting it is not difficult, making it analogous to slaves or garments.