Question
I read that Abu Hanifa permits tricks, and this is in the matter of preemption which I read about. How can I distinguish for myself whether to deal with a trick or with deception?
Answer
I say, and with God's success: They permitted tricks specifically in the matter of preemption because there is no transgression against the rights of others. In contrast, in the matter of zakat, it is not permissible because it involves taking the rights of the poor. Therefore, tricks that make the forbidden permissible and do not violate the rights of a Muslim are allowed, while deception is prohibited because it involves lying and manipulation. And God knows best.