Collecting or picking up used stones in jamarat

Answer

It is permissible for you to collect stones from the ground that were cast by others at the Jamarat, provided they are clean (free from filth or najasah). This is the view of the Hanbali school and the majority of scholars, and it is the position supported by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, Ibn al-Qayyim, Shaykh Ibn Baz, Shaykh al-Albani, and Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen.

Evidence and Scholarly Opinions:

1. Principle of Permissibility: The basic ruling regarding stones used for stoning is that they are pure and permissible to use unless there is clear evidence of prohibition. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) did not forbid collecting stones that had been thrown, nor did he instruct pilgrims to only use new stones. Abdullah ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) used to pick up stones that had fallen from his hand (al-Bukhari, no. 1743). Although this is about stones dropped by the same person, the principle indicates that the used state of a stone does not render it impermissible.

2. Hanbali Position: Imam Ahmad (may Allah have mercy on him) was asked about collecting stones that had been thrown by others. He replied: "There is nothing wrong with it, as long as they are clean." (Al-Mughni, 3/420). Ibn Qudamah (may Allah have mercy on him) affirmed this, stating that the act of stoning is a form of worship and the stone itself is not considered "used up" in a way that prevents its reuse. The condition is only that it is not soiled with impurity.

3. Fatwa of Shaykh Ibn Baz: He said:

   "It is permissible for the pilgrim to pick up stones from the ground that have been thrown by others, as long as they are clean. There is no harm in that, and it is not a condition that the stones must be new or untouched." (Majmoo‘ Fatawa Ibn Baz, 17/267)

4. Fatwa of Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen: He was asked: "What if a pilgrim loses his stones and picks up those thrown by others at the Jamarat?" He answered:

   "That is permissible, but it is better to bring stones from Muzdalifah or from your place of residence. However, if you need them, you may pick them up, even from the ground where people have thrown, as long as they are clean. There is no evidence to prohibit this." (Liqa'at al-Bab al-Maftuh, no. 190)

5. Fatwa of Shaykh al-Albani: He likewise permitted it, emphasizing that the prohibition reported in some narrations (e.g., "Do not stone with a stone that has been stoned with") is weak (da‘if) and not authentic. (See Silsilat al-Ahadith al-Da‘ifah, no. 1225)

Important Note: Avoid stones that are visibly soiled with blood, mud, or other impurities. Also, ensure the stones are small (like chickpeas) and not larger than permissible.

Best Practice: While it is permissible, it is better to bring your own stones from Muzdalifah or your place of stay, following the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him). If you lose them, you may collect from the ground with confidence.

Conclusion: Collecting stones cast by others is permissible as long as they are clean. Allah knows best.