Is it permissible to take scattered objects (Nithar) that fall into one's lap?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of the Wedding Feast

Book 37 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is permissible for a person to possess whatever scattered objects, such as thrown coins or sweets (Nithar), fall into their lap, and this acquisition is not disliked. This is because the act is permissible (*mubah*), establishing immediate ownership upon reception, similar to a fish jumping from the sea into one's lap. Consequently, no other person has the right to forcibly take what has thus fallen into and been claimed by another's lap.