𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 (422)

Ruling on Selling Permissible Items That May Be Used for Unlawful Purposes Question: May one sell perfumes to women who are immodestly dressed? Sheikh Sulayman Ar-Ruhaili hafidahullah: I have stated repeatedly that items which are lawful in themselves, but which may be used for both lawful and unlawful purposes, may be sold by a Muslim on the basis of assuming good intent on the part of people. For example, mobile phones with cameras are widespread; they may be used for lawful purposes, and they may be used for unlawful purposes. Nevertheless, it is permissible to sell them. The basis for this same is razors: a man may use a razor to shave the pubic hair, which is legislated, and he may also use it to shave his beard, which is prohibited. Yet it is permissible to sell razors, and the scholars did not forbid their sale—unless the seller has a strong presumption that a particular buyer intends to use it for the unlawful purpose. In that case, it becomes forbidden for him to sell it. This is because the principle is: whatever is forbidden to take is also forbidden to give. And the foundation of this principle is the saying of Allāh, the Exalted: “And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.” [Sūrah Al-Mā'idah:2]