Is the practice of scattering or picking up money/sweets (Nathar and Iltiqat) at weddings permissible?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Wedding Feast
Primary text
There is a difference of opinion regarding the permissibility of scattering (Nathar) and collecting (Iltiqat) items like coins or sweets at weddings. One narration from Ahmad states that this practice is disliked (makruh) in weddings and otherwise, a view held by Abu Mas'ud Al-Badri, 'Ikrimah, Ibn Sirin, 'Ata', Malik, and Al-Shafi'i. The opposing view, chosen by Abu Bakr, is that it is not disliked, held by Al-Hasan, Qatadah, Al-Nakh'i, Abu Hanifa, and Ibn al-Mundhir. Evidence supporting permissibility includes the Prophet's (PBUH) command to take meat after the sacrifice of the camels and his receiving a gift (nahb) at an Ansari wedding, which he distributed. This is likened to permitting food for guests.
Supporting text
The primary objection against scattering and collecting is that it involves grabbing, scrambling, fighting, and potentially results in low-status individuals taking what the honorable host might wish to give to others, reflecting a base character which Allah dislikes. However, there is no dispute that the act itself, scattering or picking up, is permissible (Ibahah), even if disliked by some.