Does the sale become binding just by offer and acceptance, so that the buyer can dispose of the item?

Or is taking possession necessary? Please clarify and explain.

The scholars have differed regarding taking possession. There is no doubt, first of all, that the sale is concluded.

The sale is concluded by acceptance and offer, when you say to him, "I sold it to you."

He says, "I bought it" or "I accept," the sale is concluded, that's it, it's done.

The sale is complete. There are other matters remaining, such as the option of stipulation, the option of a time period, the option of the session—these allow either party to withdraw.

From the sale, but the sale is done. If he says, "I sold to you," and the other says, "I bought," but can the buyer dispose of it?

In what he bought before taking possession of it, this is a matter of disagreement; the majority say it is not allowed.

He may dispose of the sold item before taking possession of it if it is something that can be possessed.

For example, land cannot be possessed, a building cannot be possessed.

But food, clothing, gold, things that can be possessed.

They said no, it is not permissible for him to sell it before he takes possession of it.

The Malikis held that it is permissible to sell, even if he has not taken possession, except in the case of food.

Food, meaning what is measured and sold by measure and is eaten, this is the only case where taking possession is required.

Before selling it, meaning you should not sell food you bought before you have taken possession of it.

You should not buy and leave it with him, then go and sell it while it is still with him, and the one who bought from you goes to collect it from him. They said this is not permissible in the case of food.

As for things other than food, they said it is permissible, and this is the stronger opinion, and knowledge is with Allah the Exalted. There is a difference of opinion among the scholars on this issue.