Hadith # 589
Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) found a dry date-fruit lying in the way and said, "Had it not been for fear of being from charity I would have eaten it."
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
Commentary
As Sadaqah and Zakat were forbidden to Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and the members of his family, he avoided to eat the date-fruit he had found in the way because he was not sure about the allowability of its nature. It is a lesson for a Muslim that he should stay away from a thing when he doubts its lawful aspect. The previous Hadith also confirms this view. Moreover, we come to know that the use of an insignificant thing found in the way is not forbidden. Similarly, one is permitted to pick up an eatable thing - provided it is not dubious - and eat it because it involves both humility and regard for a blessing.
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