Hoarding in Shia Jurisprudence and Its Impact on Food Security: An Analysis of Jurisprudential Perspectives and the Role of the Iranian Legal System

Background and Objective: In Shia jurisprudence, the hoarding of essential goods, especially food items, is recognized as a significant issue with direct implications for community food security. This research aims to analyze the legal (fiqhi) ruling on hoarding and its effect on equitable access to food within the framework of Shia jurisprudence. Method: This study employs a descriptive-analytical method. Data was gathered and analyzed through a review of jurisprudential texts, Islamic traditions (narrations), and legal analyses pertinent to the subject of hoarding. Findings: The research findings indicate that jurists such as Ibn Idris, Sheikh Tusi, and Allama Hilli consider hoarding unlawful (haram) if it causes harm or damage to the community, based on the 'no harm' principle (La Dharar) and authentic traditions. However, some other jurists, like Sheikh Mufid, stipulate that the prohibition of hoarding is conditional upon specific circumstances. Moreover, it was found that hoarding, by disrupting the supply of food, seriously threatens the food security of society. Although the Iranian legal system has taken measures by criminalizing hoarding in order to combat it, ineffective implementation and oversight have hindered the complete success of these measures. Conclusion: Shia jurisprudence plays an important role in protecting the food security of the community and prohibits hoarding when it causes harm to society. To mitigate the adverse effects of hoarding, it is recommended that market oversight be strengthened, existing laws be reformed, and the government actively intervene to regulate the market in crisis situations. These measures can help maintain and enhance food security in Islamic society.

کلیدواژه ها:

Shia jurisprudence ، hoarding ، food security ، Iranian legal system ، Islamic society