The Concept of Gharar in Islamic Transaction + Online Shopping Tips

The evolution of technology and internet has changed the way we shop. Previously, we would go from one store to another looking for the perfect outfit, or make-up, you name it. These days, we read and watch multiple of reviews online before purchasing an item and it is done simply by scrolling through our phones and laptops and checking them all into our cart. Then the parcel tracking begins, hahaha. 

As mentioned in my previous post, March 2018 Monthly Favourites,  I took a class on Islamic Law of Transaction and one of the topics we discussed was gharar. 

What is gharar?

• Risk, uncertainty, hazard or deceit 
• Any bargain in which the result of it is hidden (Al-Sarakhsi)

That's basically the surface of what gharar is and although gharar isn't specifically mentioned to be haram in both the Quran and sunnah, some ahadith by the Prophet (SAW) do point out that in a transaction a.k.a buying and selling, transparency is vital. Examples of transparency in a transaction is the price and the characteristic of the item and the ability of the seller to deliver the item.

As we were discussing the concept of gharar in Islam, my lecturer posed the question "is purchasing items on the internet considered to be gharar (uncertain)?"

There is always some uncertainty when we shop online and we have all heard stories, if not memes of "when you see it online vs when it arrives." Catfished by clothes! If we're unfortunate, we have had that happen to ourselves - wrong colour, wrong size or bad quality.

It is always important before purchasing online to: 

1. Know the seller. It is always better to know the seller you're dealing with.

• Read reviews on them. 
• It is always better to purchase items from a reputable, established company.
• If you're purchasing from an individual, ensure their reliability. 

2. Return Policy - sometimes you receive an item that you don't like be it the wrong colour, size or quality. So read up on the return policy if the company. Important questions:

• Are you able to return the item? 
• Do you have to pay to return the item? 
• Do you have to pay to get a new item delivered? 
• If you were to return the item, what is the procedure?
• Are returns for SELECTED ITEMS only or for ALL items?
• If you were to return the item, will you get your money back or will it be turned to store credit?

3. Customer Service - ensure that they have a good customer service! Customer service is vital, and as cheesy as it sounds, communication is key. If its bad, forget your return policy, getting your money back or exchanging your item.

4. Measuring Tape - If you like buying clothes online, please please please check your measurements! Different brands and websites have different sizing, so measure yourself and purchase accordingly.

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These are the tips that I wished someone had told me because I've had my fair share of bad experiences with online shopping. I wish you all the best with your future purchases! Happy Shopping ya'll! <3