His other question says: If I took ownership of a piece of land from a person to farm it without compensation, but he took a sum of money from me as a pledge in case he returns his land, he will return that sum to me without sharing with me in what I obtain from it.

The questioner : His other question says: If I took ownership of a piece of land from a person to farm it without compensation, but he took a sum of money from me as a pledge in case he returns his land, he will return that sum to me without sharing with me in what I obtain from it. Is this permissible in the Shari'ah?

The Shaykh : Yes, it is permissible in the Shari'ah for him to grant you land to farm, with the crops being yours. This is a kindness to you through this grant. As for his taking a pledge to ensure you return it to him, there is nothing wrong with it according to the stronger position, because this serves as security for him. Even though in reality you do not owe him a debt, you hold the actual item, which is this land. In my view, this pledge is not necessary; it is sufficient to write a document between you stating that this land is granted to you for one year or two years, according to what he wishes to grant you. As for the pledge, there is no need for it in that case. However, if it is done, there is nothing wrong with it. Yes.