Q 2: A man purchased some goods for two hundred riyals. Later, he needed cash so he offered to sell the goods for one hundred riyals, despite their being worth more than that. Is it permissible for a buyer to purchase them for just one hundred riyals when its owner bought them for two hundred?

A: There are two points to the case in question: The said goods were purchased for two hundred riyals on credit or in cash. If the purchase is on credit, then it may not be offered for sale to the same person from whom it was initially bought and who offered one hundred riyals for it in the second time. In this case, it is not permissible for that person to buy it and this is the issue of `Inah sale (selling and delivering something to another person in installments but repurchasing it with less immediate cash) which is prohibited by the majority of scholars, because it is considered a kind of Riba (usury/interest), as such, it falls under the generality of the evidence regarding Riba.However, if the buyer bought the goods in cash or credit from a different person, then he may sell the goods for a lower price provided that he is legally accountable for his actions. However, a Muslim should be understanding and merciful towards his fellow-Muslims, and not take advantage of their situation by increasing their burden. Allah (Exalted be He) says: (Part No. 13; Page No. 94)  The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islâmic religion). The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: The similitude of believers in regard to mutual love, affection, and fellow-feeling is that of one body; when any limb of it aches, the whole body aches, because of fever and sleeplessness. And stated: A believer to another believer is like a wall of bricks supporting each other. And he (peace be upon him) interlocked his fingers. This is the true nature of Muslims which is contrary to their inflicting difficulties upon one another and the greed of some to take advantage of others in need to increase profits. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.