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Which items qualify as possible kinds of subject matter for a Salam?

The subject matter of a Salam must be a fungible commodity a substitute for which is readily available in the market. The following items do not qualify as the subject mater for a Salam: • Items that have specific, unique attributes that make them different from one another. For instance, with livestock, no two animals are alike and can only be compensated for by a payment of price. Or with precious stones, each possesses unique, irreplaceable characteristics. • The yield of a particular piece of land or the fruit of a particular tree. The quantity in a Salam may be specified but the place from where it is to be obtained may not be specified. • For any kind of property, including a house, a building, or a particular piece of land. • Items produced in small quantities that may not be available at the time of the contract’s maturity. • Currency, gold and silver are classified as mediums of exchangeSince they cannot be specified in terms of their physical characteristics, a Salam cannot be executed for an exchange between them.

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