The Level of Understanding on Islamic Barter Trading among Selected Maranao Businessmen in Marawi City

Abstract

Before the introduction of money, societies relied on barter and direct trade systems for exchanging goods and services which presented challenges due to the lack of a standardized medium of exchange and difficulties in valuing different goods. Hence, this study focused on the level of understanding on Islamic barter trading among selected Maranao businessmen in Marawi City, covering various aspects such as rulings in Islamic trading, determining the value of an item, and selecting the goods to barter. The researchers aimed to assess respondents' comprehension of Islamic barter trading and identify the challenges they encountered, including location, religion, and communication. The study involved 50 respondents and employed a mixed-method analysis, combining quantitative and qualitative data. While most data came from quantitative methods, qualitative responses from five participants were collected for deeper insights. A specially designed instrument was used to gather information on the obstacles faced in Islamic barter trading, which was then subjected to statistical analysis. The findings showed that the majority of respondents were female, aged 23-29, married, and college graduates. Most of them engaged in ready-to-wear (RTW) businesses and primarily traded clothes. The respondents agreed that it is important to seek guidance from Muslim scholars in order to have a clear understanding of the ethics and principles of barter trading. The respondents also suggested that barter trading should involve equal exchanges and fair treatment of the other party, and some respondents even recommended refraining from barter trading altogether to avoid receiving damaged goods from other traders. The study aimed to contribute to the enhancement of Islamic barter trading and address challenges faced by Maranao businessmen, ultimately facilitating more successful trading within the Islamic barter system.