Increment that sellers add to the

Q: Firstly: Is there any limit for profits in Islam? If this is limited, what is the maximum for it? If this is not, how can you point out this matter?Secondly: What is the value of the Zakah (obligatory charity) of the Day of `Ashura’ (10th of Muharram)? Should we pay Zakah in trading according to the price of buying or selling?

A: Firstly: Profits or revenues are not confined to a certain limit in trading. It goes according to supply and demand, scarcity or abundance. But a Muslim whether a merchant or not should be lenient in selling or buying. He should not make use of the unawareness of the buyer. He should not deceive him because he has to put into consideration that he is his brother in Islam. Secondly: There is no Zakah for the Day of `Ashura’. One should only pay Zakah for gold, silver and articles of trade if they reach Nisab (the minimum amount on which Zakah is due) and one lunar year has elapsed after reaching the Nisab. (Part No. 13; Page No. 92) Zakah is due for these things along with their profits after the lapse of one year according to the lunar calendar. A person should also pay Zakah for articles of trade upon the lapse of one year after reaching the Nisab. The price of buying is not to be considered in paying Zakah. The year begins since Nisab is reached whether it was acquired in `Ashura' or any other month of the year. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.