Chapter on Lost Property and Stray Animals

Ali ibn Ja'far asked his brother Imam Musa ibn Jafar Al-Kadhim عليه السلام about a lost item found by a poor person, whether he is in the same position regarding it as a wealthy person. Imam عليه السلام said: "Yes." Imam عليه السلام further said: " Imam Ali ibn Al-Hussain عليه السلام used to say, 'It belongs to its owner, do not touch it.'" He (Ali ibn Ja'far) said: I also asked Imam عليه السلام about a man who finds a dirham, a piece of clothing, or a riding animal, what should he do? Imam عليه السلام said: "He should announce it for one year. If its owner does not come forward, he should keep it as part of his property until its claimant appears, and then he must return it. If he dies, he should include it in his will, and he is responsible for it."