The Ruling on the Deposit

Question:
Yes. What is the ruling on the deposit (arabun) that people deal with? Is it permissible or not?

Answer:
There is scholarly disagreement regarding the deposit, but the correct view is that it is permissible. If he gives him some money, buying a known amount of goods, and gives him a portion of the price, saying, "This is a deposit; if you take the goods, it is part of the price, and if you do not take them, it is yours for your patience and for keeping it reserved for you," there is nothing wrong with this. It is narrated from 'Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) and Abu al-Saff, and his answer is the stronger one. Some scholars hold that it is not permissible, but the stronger answer is that it is permissible because it is a clear transaction that contains no deception, no riba (usury or interest), and is transparent. Its benefit is apparent, for he waits for the customer because of this; without it, he would not wait, and the customer would not be lost; rather, he would proceed with the sale. If he waits for him for a day or two or the like, this may harm him, as he might lose customers. Thus, this deposit serves as compensation for the loss he may suffer due to losing customers. Yes.