Checkers Competition

QUESTION:

Checkers is running a promotion where, if you purchase certain products, you receive a scratch card for free. This card contains a code which you send via WhatsApp to Checkers, giving you the chance to win free items like cold drinks or chocolate, and you are automatically entered into a bigger draw. Is it permissible to consume the items if one wins?

ANSWER:

If you are paying anything above the item that you are purchasing, then it will not be permissible to utilize the gift or to participate in the larger competition, as this will be tantamount to gambling.

فإن الغرر هو الخطر الذي استوى فيه طرف الوجود والعدم بمنزلة الشك (بدائع الصنائع 5/ 163)

ويطلق القمار في الاصطلاح الفقهي على كل لعب يشترط فيه غالبا أن يأخذ الغالب شيئا من المغلوب وحقيقته مراهنة على غرر محض (فقه المعاملات 4/128)

However, if you are not paying anything extra (over and above the price for the item purchased), then this will be considered as a gift and you may utilize it.

ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!

ANSWERED BY:

Mufti Abdul Kader Fazlani

Date: 28 Dhul Hijjah 1446 / 25 June 2025

CHECKED AND APPROVED BY:

Mufti Yacoob Vally Saheb