Ruling on allocating books as Waqf

Q 1: I see some books in bookshops where some phrases like "endowment for the sake of Allah", "given as a gift and not to be sold", "distributed by a charitable organization", "distributed by a governmental organization", "personal gift from … to …", "gifted by a governmental organization" and "distributed by a governmental administration" are written. Is it permissible to purchase these books from their owners like other books that do not have these phrases without informing him of that? Or should I inform him of these phrases; and if he gives me the choice, will I take it for personal use to read it; or should I give it to those in need of it? Please, answer in detail. (Part No. 11; Page No. 284


A: If there is any phrase on the book indicating that it is Waqf (endowment), such as "endowment for the sake of Allah", "given as a gift and not for sale", and "distributed by a charitable organization" it is not allowable to sell or purchase it. If the book has a phrase indicating that it is a gift or that it is distributed free of charge, it is not Waqf and there is nothing wrong in selling and purchasing it.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.


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