Lost cows

Q 1: A man sold a cow to a person whom he does not know. The cow escaped and returned to him again. Since he does not know the purchaser, he sold it again and spent its price. What should he do?

A: The ruling on this cow is the same as the ruling of the Luqatah (a lost item found by someone other than its owner). (Part No. 15; Page No. 467) He has to search for its owner in markets and gatherings for one year. If he finds the purchaser, he has to tell him the truth and return the price of the cow to him. If he does not find the purchaser, he should give its price in Sadaqah (voluntary charity) on his behalf. However, if the purchaser appears and does not approve of giving the money in Sadaqah, the man should return the money to him. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.