The issue turns on two distinct observations. One is equal volume at the time of contracting, emphasized by Abu Hanifa’s recorded position. The other is loss of volume on drying, which the two disciples and many jurists treat as a reason to prohibit the exchange.
Five saʿ of fresh dates and five saʿ of dried dates may measure equally today, but fresh dates shrink when dried. The legal disagreement is therefore substantive and cannot be reduced to a mere difference in commercial grade.
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Riba in Particular Exchanges: Flour, Meat, Dates, Oils and Composite Goods
The issue turns on two distinct observations. One is equal volume at the time of contracting, emphasized by Abu Hanifa’s recorded position. The other is loss of volume on drying, which the two disciples and many jurists treat as a reason to prohibit the exchange.
Five saʿ of fresh dates and five saʿ of dried dates may measure equally today, but fresh dates shrink when dried. The legal disagreement is therefore substantive and cannot be reduced to a mere difference in commercial grade.