What is the Shariah ruling regarding Muhammad's seizure of the taxi that Hassan had entrusted him to purchase and own, and his proceeding to sell it without Hassan's knowledge or consent, knowing that the car's ownership belongs to Hassan as he was the sole financier of its purchase, and it was registered in Muhammad's name to facilitate the purchase and licensing procedures? Is Muhammad obligated to return the car and license it back to Hassan as it was? If that is not possible, should the car be valued at its current market value (250,000 pounds) or at its value at the time of sale (70,000 pounds)?
Selling a car that was lent out without the owner's permission is invalid. The one who sold it is treated like a usurper (ghasib) and is liable for it to the owner. If the car is still existing and can be returned, it must be returned; otherwise, its value is guaranteed. Scholars differed on the timing of estimating the value, and the preponderant opinion is that the value that must be returned is its value at the time of sale, unless otherwise proven by a judge's ruling. Issues of dispute and contention should be resolved through the Sharia judiciary or arbitration.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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