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Quran Scientific Miracles & Islam's Prophecies (in Hadiths and Quran) / Re: ISLAM FOR HUMAN LIBERATION
« on: April 26, 2020, 07:54:37 PM »
slavery in islam
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful!
The premise of this paper is that Islam intended to end all forms of slavery. Muslim scholars have concluded that indeed all forms of slavery was prohibited: debt, kidnapping, raids, poverty, except warfare. To bring home the premise, bondage is prohibited even through warfare.
Moreover, slaves were given the same rights as free emigrants (sahih bukhari, Book #63, Hadith #210). This shows the elevated position of slaves in the Muslim community.
ONE
In his demise, the prophet (peace be upon him) didn’t leave one slave. He freed all his slaves. This is important, because he is an example for mankind, for all times (33:21). And he shown through this example that ending of slavery is sought after. This further strengthens the premise that Islam intended to end all forms of bondage. By the prophet (peace be upon him) freeing all his slaves, means the freeing of slaves is promoted. Since the one that should be an example for all of mankind freed his slaves before his demise then we as Muslims ought to free our slaves, too.
● Narrated Amr bin Al-Harith: Allah's Apostle died, he did not leave any Dirham or Dinar (i.e. money), a slave or a slave woman (sahih bukhari, Book #51, Hadith #2)
● Narrated 'Amir bin Al-Harith: Allah's Apostle did not leave a Dinar or a Dirham or a male or a female slave (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #738)
TWO
“ . . . And such of your slaves as seek a writing (of emancipation), give them such writing, if you find that there is good and honesty in them. And give them something (yourselves) out of the wealth of Allah which He has bestowed upon you. . .” 24:33
A slave can ask for emancipation at any time (24:33). If a slave has the strength to work towards his liberation, then the master must free him. However, when the slave is working towards his emancipation, the master can’t abuse him by assigning more than the slave can handle. Master must help his slave in whichever task he assigns him (sahih bukhari, Book #2, Hadith #29). Can’t abuse a slave. This is a general statement; however, a master can’t do anything that can be termed as abuse to his slave (sunan abu dawud, Book #32, Hadith #4073); and, can’t over burden his slave (sahih muslim Book #015, Hadith #4095). Once more, Islam intended to end all forms of bondage by giving any slave the right of freedom, by working towards such emancipation. The verse in question (24:33), delivers the right of any slave to march towards his freedom, hence, bringing about the possibility of any person enslaved to work towards his emancipation.
THREE
There are 35 occasions in which freeing a slave is exulted. The essence in freeing slaves is to decrease the number of slaves in the community. Why? Why would there be numerous sources that exults liberation? Because liberation is good; and since it is good then bondage can’t be good, too. It would result in a contradiction. Since, the freeing of persons is sought after, it shows that Islam intended to end all forms of bondage. By decreasing slaves in the community; then we are to believe there is an inevitable march towards a point in which slaves are to be freed (as a whole). How can something that is not good be enshrined by God? Either God enshrines liberation or bondage. Not both! Indeed, He enshrines liberation.
Emancipation erases sins from a Muslim. For example, if a husband has intercourse with his wife in Ramadan, he must free a slave (sahih bukhari., b. 82, 811). In the same token, if a Muslim kill in confinement he must free four slaves (sunan abu dawud, 14, 2681A). For an act to clean the sins of a Muslim means that such act is good and moral. Thus, emancipation is good and moral. Also, slavery was disapproved by God when he is speaking of Pharaoh enslaving the Children of Israel (26:22).
1. Freeing slaves, subtracts the total number of slaves
2. Hence, such subtraction in the community is good
3. Enslavement, adds to the total number of slaves
4. Thus, addition (of slaves) in the community is not good
1. Virtue of freeing a high price slave: (s.m., b. 001, 0147) (b. 006, 246).
2. Umar freed slaves (s.m. b. 013, 4006).
3. Intercourse with wife during Ramadan, free a slave: (s.b., b. 82, 811) (79, 702) (701) (700) (73, 185) (64, 281) (47, 772) (31, 157)(158) (s.a., b. 12, 2207) (s.m. b. 006, 2457) (2459) (2460).
4. Freeing slaves, your body will be freed from hell-fire: (s.b., 79, 706) (s.m., 009, 3600) (3602) (3603) (3605) (s.a, 73, 3415) (29, 3912).
5. Poor believers desire to free slaves, insufficient money: (s.m., b. 004, 1239).
6. Deeds of freeing a slave, la ilah ilalah wahdahu la shariika lah : (s.b., b. 75, 412) (54, 514) (s.m, b. 035, 6508) (6510).
7. Good deeds before Islam: (s.b., b. 24, 517)
8. Good deeds: (s.b., b. 73, 21) (s.b., b. 53, 372) (46, 715) (s.b., 065, 2181) (s.m., 001, 0225).
9. Freeing for the sake of Allah, abu huraira: (s.b., 59, 676) (46, 707) (708) (709).
10. Free slaves during eclipse; (s.b., b.. 8, 163) (46, 695) (696).
11. Serving the apostle: (s.a, b. 29, 3921).
12. Freed 4 descendents of Ishmael; (s.a., b. 23, 3659) (25, 3659) (3955).
13. Will be saved from hell: (s.a, b. 29, 3953) (s.m, b. 009, 3602) (3603) (s.b, b. 46, 693) (29, 3955).
14. 100 slaves freed: (s.a, b. 17, 2877).
15. Umar set slaves free: (s.a., b.13, 2469).
16. Kills in confinement freed four slaves: (s.a, b. 14, 2681A).
17. Day of hudiabia: slaves freed (s.a., b. 14, 2694).
18. Banu hudhayi: slaves freed (s.a., b. 14, 2744).
19. Freed after death safe from hell on the day of judgment: (s.a., b. 29, 3957).
20. Forced intercourse: free a slave (s.a., b. 38, 4445).
21. Fostering a child, free a slave: (s.a., b 10, 1814) (11, 2059).
22. Virtue of freeing descendents of Ishmael: (s.b., 59, 652) (46, 719) (s.m., b. 031, 6133) (s.a., b. 41, 5059).
23. Land of charity freed slaves from it: (s.b., b. 51, 33) (26) (50, 895) (4110) (4109) (4108) (4107) (4106) (4104) (s.m., b. 009, 3580)(3584) (3585) (3587) (3595) (s.m, b. 015, 4102) (4103).
24. Two masters should free the slave as a whole: (s.b., 46, 729) (44, 671) (672) (s.m., b. 009, 3578) (46, 697) (698) (699) (701) (702) (703) (704) (s.a., b. 29, 3922) (3923) (3937).
25. Double reward: in freeing slaves (s.b., b. 55, 655) (46, 723) (52, 255) (4079) (4081) (4082) (4083) (4084) (s.m,b. 006, 3327).
26. Slap. Beat. free slave; (s.a., b. 41, 5148) (s.m,. b. 015, 4078) (4086) (4089).
27. Path that is steep and hard is to free a slave; (90:13).
28. Slander against wife set a slave free: (58:3-4) (s.a., b. 12, 2208).
29. Piety is to free a slave: 2: 177, 3:92.
30. Killed a believer accidentally, free a slave 4:92.
31. Freed one hundred slaves: (s.m., b. 001, 0225).
32. Slaves of hunain set free without ransom (abu bakr): (s.b., b. 53, 372).
33. Master who frees a slave get some of the slaves’ inheritance: (s.m., 009, 3585) (3587).
34. Even abu lahad received some goodness in his grave because he freed a slave; (sahih bukhari)
35. The person who freed will get the right of shared inheritance, al walad: (s.b., b. 53, 397) (404) (34, 378) (46, 736) (737) (47, 752) (24, 570) (34, 365) (30, 94) (364) (s.b., b. 80, 750).
FOUR
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "Allah says, 'I will be against three persons on the day of resurrection. One who sells a free person (as a slave) and eats the price," (sahih bukhari, Book #34, Hadith #430)
Narrated Abdullah ibn Umar: The Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) said: There are three types of people whose prayer is not accepted by Allah: a man who takes into slavery an emancipated male or female slave. (sunan abu dawud, Book #2, Hadith #0593)
This is a categorical proposition that indeed none can take a free man or woman into captivity. This means that even after declaring war upon a society, the Muslims cannot take such society into captivity; because, were the community the Muslims fought with free or not free? They were free. Thus, such community Muslims fought, their freedom can’t be taken away. This is an all inclusive message, which addresses all free persons. If there was a different verdict regarding taking communities into captivity, these two hadiths contradict that. Such community is comprised of free persons: and the selling of free persons is prohibited. The hadith in Sahih Bukhari (Book #34, Hadith #430), clearly states he who sells a free person, such a man the prophet (peace be upon him) is against. Captives are bought and sold, however, such buying and selling (in all circumstances) is negated in the two above-mentioned hadiths. The two hadiths don’t say that one can’t take into captivity free persons, except through warfare. Rather, one can’t take into captivity a free person in all circumstances. To reiterate the premise of this paper, Islam intended to end all forms of enslavement. In all circumstances, taking of a person’s freedom is prohibited. Thus, their rights should not be encroached upon. Since taking of all person’s freedom is outlawed shows once more that Islam intended to end all forms of slavery.
1. No one should enslave free persons
2. Captivity enslaves free persons
3. Thus, captivity is outlawed.
There are 27 sources in the Quran that mention war and fighting, while not suggesting captivity. In another case, freeing is decreasing the number of slaves; however, if the decrease of such bondage is moral, then how can captivity, (which increases the number of slaves), be good, too? When the Muslim civilization overwhelms a people and takes them into captivity, they are adding to the total number of bondmen in the community; hence, not good. However, as we illustrated above there are 35 ways in which freeing of a slave is exulted. If subtracting captives is good then adding captives can’t be good, too. It would be an oxymoron. To take or not to take! Can the Muslims take captives into bondage? Yes or no? There are 17 occasions in which captivity is not promoted (59 sources); while there are only 5 times in which Muslims took captives. Since, the number of times captives were taken is rare, and the counterpart is 17 occasions, then to conclude, the former is not a law (i.e. captivity). For example, the prophet (peace be upon him) cut down the trees of the Jews he was fighting (59:5), which is not a law. Since captivity happened a few times, just like cutting of the trees, it is not a law. Perhaps the trees were cut for a strategic circumstance, and the captives were taken with a certain strategy not made apparent by the sources. The law is not to take captives. If captivity is a law, why are there 17 other occasions that negates it? Thus, there would be a contradiction if both captivities should not be sought after and should be sought after, at the same time. Since, there is a contradiction we must take either captivity or the negation of captivity as a law. Thus, we have chosen negation of captivity as a law due to its abundant enshrinement. The captives increase the total number of slaves in the community. However, such an increase is held to not be good; because captivity was taken by the prophet (peace be upon him) in a very minimal time. Additionally, freeing captives was deemed justified many times (i.e.17 times). Hence, the decrease of slaves is deemed good by freeing the captives or ransoming them. This further show how Islam intended to end all forms of slavery.
1. Either captivity or emancipation is good
2. Both can’t be good, at the same time
3. Due to abundant enshrinement, emancipation is good (59 sources)
4. Since emancipation is moral, then captivity can't be moral, too
5. Thus, captivity is not good
1.Banu an-Nadir were deported, and they took with them whatever their camels could carry, that is, their property, the doors of their houses, and their wood. No captivity (sunan abu dawud, Book #19, Hadith #2998)
2. I want to expel you [Banu Qaynuqa] from this land. So, if anyone amongst you owns some property, he is permitted to sell it . . ." Banu Qaynuq weren’t taken into captivity. (Bukhari 53:392) (Ibn Ishaq/Hisham 546).
3. and to free the captives, and for those in debt... (Chapter #9, Verse #60)
4. Narrated Abu Musa: The Prophet said, "Free the captives . . ." (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #282) (sahih bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #103) (sahih bukhari, Book #70, Hadith #552) (sahih bukhari, Book #83, Hadith #50) (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #285)(sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #283) (sahih bukhari, Book #3, Hadith #111).
5. Muslims were permitted to set free the captives of Hawazin ... (sahih bukhari, Book #47, Hadith #778) (sahih bukhari, Book #47, Hadith #757) (sahih bukhari, ,Book #53, Hadith #360) (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #608) (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #288) (sahih bukhari, Book #53, Hadith #372) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4074) (sunan abu dawud, Book #13, Hadith #2469).
6. hunain ... freed the captives of hunain without ransom, they came out walking in the streets. 'Umar said (to his son), "O Abdullah! See what is the matter." 'Abdullah replied, "Allah's Apostle has freed the captives without ransom." He said (to him), "Go and set free those two slave girls." (sahih bukhari, Book #53, Hadith #372) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4074).
7. Narrated Aisha, Ummul Mu'minin: Juwayriyyah, daughter of al-Harith ibn al-Mustaliq ... She entered into an agreement to purchase her freedom. One hundred families of Banu al-Mustaliq were set free on account of her. (sunan abu dawud, Book #29, Hadith #3920).
8. WHEN THE PROPHET SEIZED MECCA, HE FORGAVE AND FREED ALL: NO CAPTIVES (Ibn Ishaq).
9. And if any of your wives have gone from you to the disbelievers, (as apostates and you asked them to return back your Mahr but they refused) - then you went out for a Ghazwah (military expedition) (against them and) gained booty; then pay from that booty to those whose wives have gone, the equivalent of what they had spent (on their Mahr ). And fear Allah in Whom you believe. (60:11). Women who ran away weren’t made captives.The men are given from the booty the price such men gave to their run away wives, Mahr. Such women weren't made captives.
10. What is your opinion about these captives? Abu Bakr said: They are our kith and kin. I think you should release them after getting from them a ransom. . . I [Umar] am of the opinion that you should hand them over to us so that we may cut off their heads. . . [God chose the verdict of Umar, to kill them, no captivity] (sahih muslim, Book #019, Hadith #4360). 8:67-70
11. Thereafter (is the time) either for generosity (i.e. free them without ransom), or ransom (according to what benefits Islam), until the war lays down its burden. No captivity 47:4.
12. Fighting is mentioned without captivity: 2:190, 2:193, 2:216, 2:217, 2:244, 3:13, 3:167, 4:74- 4:76, 4:84, 4:95, 5:54, 8:39, 8:65, 9:12-14, 9:19, 9:24, 9:29, 9:36, 9:44, 9:81, 9:86, 9:111, 9:123, 22:39, 47:20, 61:4, 61:11.
13. Allah's Apostle manumitted safiyya and then married her. No captivity. Her marriage was her manumission (sahih bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #98).
14. Free captives, (riyadu-saliheen)
15. The prophet chastised Khalid bin Walid for killing and taking people of a town as captives. No captivity. (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #628) (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #299)
16. "The Apostle of Allaah(ﷺ) took them captive without fighting and the Apostle of Allaah(ﷺ) set them free. . ." he freed captives, (sunan abu dawud, Book 14, Hadith 2682).
17. 'It is for the Imam to decide to be generous with he who wills among the captives, or to kill who wills among them, or to ransom who wills among them. Some of the people of knowledge preferred killing over ransoming.Al-Awzai' said: "It has been conveyed to me. That's ayah is abrogated: Thereafter (is the time) either for generosity (to them free without ranson) or ransom (47:4). It was abrogated by: Kill them wherever you find them (2:191). This was narrated to us by Hannad (who said): "Ibn Al-Mubarak narrated to us, from Al-Awza'i."Ishaq bin Mansur said: "I said to Ahmad: 'When the captives are captured' is killing or ransoming better to you?' He said: 'If they are able to ransom' then there is no harm in it. And if they kill, then I do not know of any harm in it.'" Ishaq said: "Wiping them out is better to me, unless it is someone well-known, so that it is hoped that a large amount will be obtained for him." (Jami' at Tirmidhi, book 21, Hadith 29). Either kill or ransom.No captivity.
Captivity
1. We took women captives (sahih muslim, Book #008, Hadith #3373) (sahih muslim, book #8, 3371) (sahih bukhari, Book #77, Hadith #600) (s.b., Book #62, Hadith #137) (s.b., Book #59, Hadith #459) (s.b., Book #46, Hadith #718).
2. conquered Khaybar, they (the people) took out their spoils which contained equipment and captives (sunan abu dawud, Book #14, Hadith #2779) (sahih bukhari, Book #14, Hadith #68) (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #512)
3. Having overcome them and taken them captives (sahih muslim, Book #008, Hadith #3432) (sahih muslim, Book #008, Hadith #3433). 4:24
4. Narrated Buraida: The Prophet sent 'ali to Khalid to bring the khumus (of the booty) and I hated ali, and 'ali had taken a bath (after a sexual act with a slave-girl from the khumus). (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #637)
5. banu Qurayda: (sunan abu dawud, Book #38, Hadith #4390)
FIVE
There are 20 ways that becomes an impediment to owning a slave. For example, the owner must pay charity on behalf of his slave. It means the owner will lose money in owning the slave. On another occasion, the master must buy his slave clothing and feed him with what he eats. The owner must pay expenses on behalf of his slave; which means the master is losing money. Thus, due to these impediments the master is pushed to freeing his slave, in order to save money and resources. Also, there are actions the master must not do, which limits his conduct. These impediments are meant to promote the freeing of slaves (e.g., you can’t beat slaves, sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4078). For another impediment, master who is abusive can’t own a slave, because he must free his slave if he beats him. These impediments show that Islam intended to end all forms of enslavement. By making the owning of slave expensive means Islam intended to end all forms of slavery.
1.Feed them (sunan abu dawud, book 41, 5142) (sahih bukhari, Book #2, Hadith #29)
2. Clothe them with what you wear (sunan abu dawud, book 41, 5142) (sahih bukahir, Book #2, Hadith #29).
3. You can’t slap them (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4078) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4086) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4089) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4083) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4084).
4. You can’t slander against them (sahih bukhari, Book #82, Hadith #841).
5. Sadaqat-ul-Fitr. The master must pay charity on behalf of his slaves (sunan abudawud, Book #9, Hadith #1615) (sunan abudawud, Book #9, Hadith #1616) (sunan abudawud, Book #9, Hadith #1618) (sunan abudawud, Book #9, Hadith #1590) (sahih muslim, Book #010, Hadith #3868) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2155) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2156) (sahih musliim, Book #005, Hadith #2150) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2151) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2153) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2149) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2144) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2145) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2147) (sahih bukhari, Book #24, Hadith #542) (sahih bukhari, Book #24, Hadith #543) (sahih bukhari, Book #25, Hadith #579) (sahih bukhari, Book #25, Hadith #580) (sahih bukhari, Book #25, Hadith #587).
6. You can only have intercourse with her if she allows it. The master is in a perilous position if he buys a slave girl who doesn’t allow him to have intercourse with her. (sunan abu dawud, Book #38, Hadith #4445) (sunan abu dawud, Book #38, Hadith #4446). (sunan abudawud, Book #38, Hadith #4444) (sunan abudawud, Book #38, Hadith #4443).
7. You can’t call yourself the lord and call them slave (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #728) (sunan abudawud, Book #41, Hadith #4957) (sahih bukhari, Book #027, Hadith #5594) (sahih muslim, Book #027, Hadith #5591).
8. Slave will get your inheritance if you don’t have any heir (sahih muslim, Book #004, Hadith #1355).
9. You must share gifts and present with slave (sunan abu dawud, Book #19, Hadith #2946).
10. Can’t over burden them (sahih muslim Book #015, Hadith #4095) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4094) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4093) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4092) ( sahih bukahir, Book #2, Hadith #29) (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #721).
11. The slave will serve you for so long as you don’t contradict Allah and his messenger (peace be upon him) (sahih bukhari).
12. Can’t punish them (sunan abu dawud, book #41, Hadith #5142).
13. He can demand his emancipation. 24:33 (s.b., b. 2, #29)(s.b., b. 44, 682), (s.m, b. 009, 3582)(s.m. b. 015, 4110) (s.m. b. 015, 4095) (s.m., b. 015, 4094)(4093).
14. Can’t abuse a slave. This is a general statement; however, a master can’t do anything that can be termed as abuse to his slave (sunan abu dawud, Book #32, Hadith #4073).
15. Slave can have retaliation from a hit or slap he received from his master ( sahih bukhari, Book #2, Hadith #29).
16. Master must help his slave in whichever task he assigns him. (SAHIH BUKHARI, Book #2, Hadith #29) (SAHIH BUKHARI, Book #46, Hadith #704) (SAHIH BUKHARI, Book #46, Hadith #721) (SAHIH BUKHARI, Book #73, Hadith #76) (SAHIH MUSLIM, Book #015, Hadith #4092) (SAHIH MUSLIM, Book #015, Hadith #4093) (SAHIH MUSLIM, Book #015, Hadith #4094).
17. Can’t separate a mother and her children: (sunan abu dawud, b. 23, 2690).
18. Can’t look at the private parts of your slave at time of marriage: (sunan abu dawud, Book #32, Hadith #4101), (sunan abu dawud, Book #32, Hadith #4102).
19. If you beat a slave he will share with your reward: (sahih muslim Book #005, Hadith #2237).
20. Can’t take the property of a slave, inheritance; (sahih muslim, Book #009, Hadith #3596).
SIX
The prophet (peace be upon him) set slaves free. And below are the many times the companions set slaves free, too. These sources being presented makes manifest the virtue of the prophet and his companions, regarding the decrease of slaves in the Muslim community. To bring home the point, why would there be countless freed slaves if minimizing bondman is not moral and should be aim towards? Hence, these examples show that Islam intended to end all forms of slavery.
The prophet
Thauban, the freed slave of the Messenger of Allah (sahih muslims, Book #003, Hadith #0614) (sahih muslims, Book #004, Hadith #0989)
Haritha the freed slave of Allah's Apostle(sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #305)
Abu Rafi', the freed slave of the Prophet (sahih bukhari, Book #35, Hadith #459)
The companions
the freed slave of Shaiba (sahih bukhari, Book #3, Hadith #92).
the freed slave of 'Uthman bin 'Affan (sahih bukhari, Book #4, Hadith #165)
the freed slave of Um Hani (sahih bukhari, Book #8, Hadith #353)
the freed slave of Ibn 'Abbas (sahih bukhari, Book #12, Hadith #802)
(freed slave of) Ziyad (sahih bukhari, Book #21, Hadith #288)
The freed slave of 'Umar bin 'Ubaidullah (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #210)
Al-Khattab appointed a freed slave of his (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #292)
the freed slave of Shaddad (sahih bukhari, Book #002, Hadith #0464)
The freed slave of Usama bin Zaid (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #81)
the freed slave of Abu Bakr (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #97)
the freed slave of Abu Hudhaifa (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #103)
freed slave of an Ansari woman (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #335)
The freed slave of Abu Qilaba (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #506)
the freed slave of Ibn Azhar (sahih bukhari, Book #68, Hadith #478)
the freed slave of Al-Mughira bin Shu'ba (sahih bukhari, Book #75, Hadith #342)
the freed slave of Mahri (sahih muslims, Book #002, Hadith #0466)
the freed slave of 'A'isha (sahih muslims, Book #004, Hadith #1316)
the freed slave of Umm Hani (sahih muslims, Book #004, Hadith #1555)
the freed slave of Umm al-Fadl (sahih muslims, Book #006, Hadith #2496)
the freed slave of Asma' bint Abu Bakr (sahih muslims, Book #007, Hadith #2853)
the freed slave of Umm Habiba (sahih muslims, Book #007, Hadith #2963)
the freed slave of 'Azza (sahih muslims, Book #009, Hadith #3489)
the freed slave of Maimuna (sahih muslims, Book #016, Hadith #4127)
the freed slave of Abu Qatada (sahih muslims, Book #019, Hadith #4339)
the freed slave of Abu Ayyub Ansiri (sahih muslims, Book #023, Hadith #5099)
the freed slave of Nafi' b. 'Abd al-Harith (sahih muslims, Book #024, Hadith #5199)
the freed slave of Banu Zuhra (sahih muslims, Book #024, Hadith #5265)
the freed slave of Banu Hashim (sahih muslims, Book #030, Hadith #5805)
the freed slave of Shaiba (sahih muslims, Book #030, Hadith #5829)
the freed slave of Nasriyyin (sahih muslims, Book #032, Hadith #6293)
SEVEN
Allah calls many people slaves. This is a point of honor. For example, when God was speaking of sending the Quran upon prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), He called him a slave (25:1). Additionally, when Allah makes known the night journey of prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), he is called a slave (17:1). When God places the greatest honor on Muhammad (peace be upon him), the prophet was called a slave. This further proves that Islam intended to end all forms of slavery, by calling all of creation slaves (making all equal) (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #108).
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "You should not say, 'Feed your lord (Rabbaka), help your lord in performing ablution, or give water to your lord, but should say, 'my master (e.g. Feed your master instead of lord etc.) (Saiyidi), or my guardian (Maulai), and one should not say, my slave (Abdi), or my girl-slave (Amati), but should say, my lad (Fatai), my lass (Fatati), and 'my boy (Ghulami)." (sahih bukhari, 46, 728) (sunan abu dawud, Book #41, Hadith #4957) (sahih muslim, Book #027, Hadith #5594) (sahih muslim, Book #027, Hadith #5591)
Being called a slave is honorable
1.MUHAMMAD: called a slave (Sahih bukhari, Book #12, Hadith #797) (sahih bukhari Book #22, Hadith #294) (sahih bukhari, Book #8, Hadith #455) (sahih bukhari, Book #21, Hadith #230) (sahih bukhari, Book #34, Hadith #335)(sunan abuddawud, Book #55, Hadith #644) (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #297) (sahih bukhari, Book #56, Hadith #725).
2. MESSIAH : called a slave(sahih musim, Book #001, Hadith #0043) (Chapter #19, Verse #30) (Chapter #18, Verse #102) (Chapter #43, Verse #59) (sahih bukhari, Book #76, Hadith #533) (sahih bukhari, Book #63, Hadith #209) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #264) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #249) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #250) (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #644) (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #654) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #251) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #149) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #150).
3. MOSES: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #23, Hadith #423) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #3)(sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #619).
4. KHADIR: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #3, Hadith #74) (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #612) (sahih bukhari Book #3, Hadith #124) (sahih bukhari, Book #93, Hadith #570).
5. BELIEVERS: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #12, Hadith #794) (sahih bukahri, Book #12, Hadith #797) (sahih bukhari, Book #23, Hadith #373) (Chapter #17, Verse #53) (Chapter #17, Verse #65).
6. DEAD PERSON: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #23, Hadith #456).
7. DWELLERS OF PARADISE: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #31, Hadith #121), 89:27-29.
8. ANGEL GABRIEL: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #379) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #380).
9. VICTORIOUS SLAVES OF ALLAH: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #238) (sahih bukhari, Book #27, Hadith #23).
10. DAVID AND SOLOMON: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #633).
11. NOAH: called a slave (Chapter #17, Verse #3).
12. CHILDREN OF ISRAEL: called a slave (Chapter #20, Verse #77) (Chapter #26, Verse #52).
13. CHIEF OF THE BELIEVERS: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #312).
14. MUJAHIDEEN: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #78, Hadith #661).
15. AYYUB: called a slave (Chapter #38, Verse #41)
16. IBRAHIM: called a slave (Chapter #38, Verse #45).
17. ALL CREATION: called slaves (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #108)
Slaves who were honored
1. SLAVES IN THE PILGRIMAGE, (sahih bukhari, Book #26, Hadith #769).
2. SLAVE WAS GIVEN INHERITANCE OF A MAN WHO PAST AWAY, (sunan abudawud, Book #18, Hadith #2899)
3. SLAVE AND FREE WOMEN WERE GIVEN BEADS (financial gain) (50) (sunan abu dawud, Book #19, Hadith #2946)
4. SLAVE GETS SOME OF THE SPOILS OF WAR (sahih muslim, Book #009, Hadith #3596)
5. COMPANIONS HONOR A SLAVE (sahih muslim, Book #031, Hadith #6079)
6. SLAVE AND FREE MEN ARE BEING SOUGHT FORGIVENESS FOR ALLAH (sahih muslim, Book #031, Hadith #6100)
7. obey (him) even if he were a slave maimed (and disabled). (sahih muslims, Book #020, Hadith #4525) (sahih muslim, Book #020, Hadith #4530) (sahih muslim, Book #020, Hadith #4528) (sahih muslim, Book #004, Hadith #1355) (sahih bukhari, Book #020, Hadith #4526) (sahih muslim, Book #007, Hadith #2977)(sahih muslim, Book #020, Hadith #4532)
8. He who accused his slave of adultery, punishment would be imposed upon him on the Day of Resurrection, (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4090)
9. NO ONE SHOULD TAKE THE INHERITANCE OF A SLAVE (sahih muslim, Book #009, Hadith #3596)
10. FREED SLAVE LEADING THE PEOPLE (sahih muslim, Book #004, Hadith #1780)
11. SLAVE GIRL IS MORE HONORABLE AND BETTER THAN AN APPEALING MAN (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #645)
12. SLAVES HAVE THE SAME RIGHTS AS THE FREE EMIGRANTS (sahih bukhari, Book #63, Hadith #210)
13. BELIEVING SLAVE IS BETTER THAN A FREE DISBELIEVER (Quran, 2:221)
14. A SLAVE HAGAR (sahih bukhari)
15. Ishmael the son of slave (Hagar) was made a prophet: (Chapter #4, Verse #163) (Chapter #19, Verse #54) (Chapter #38, Verse #48) (Chapter #2, Verse #136) (Chapter #6, Verse #86)
16. SLAVE LEADS IN PRAYER WHICH IS A GREAT HONOR (sahih bukhari, Book #11, Hadith #661)
17. BILAL FORMER SLAVE ENTERED PARADISE BEFORE THE BELOVED PROPHET (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #97)
18. FREED SLAVE IS ONE OF THE MEN PROPHET SAID SHOULD BE LEARNED FROM THE QURAN (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #103) (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #104) (sahih bukhari, Book #58, Hadith #150) (sahih bukhari, Book #58, Hadith #153)
19. GOD GAVE THE PRIVILEGE OF THE FIRST BELIEVERS TO BE 5 OUT OF 8 SLAVES, (sahih bukhari, Book #58, Hadith #197) (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #12)
20. PROPHET (SAW) TOOK THE ADVICE OF A SLAVE WOMAN (See Hadith No. 274, Vol. 6) (sahih bukhari, Book #92, Hadith #462)
21. FREEING A MUSLIM SLAVE WILL FREE YOU FROM HELL FIRE (sahih bukhari, Book #79, Hadith #706)
22. CANNOT SLANDER A SLAVE, WILL BE PUNISHED IN THE HEREAFTER, (sahih bukhari, Book #82, Hadith #841) (sahih bukhari, Book #82, Hadith #841)
23. VIRGIN AND SLAVE WOMEN BE SOUGHT THEIR OPINION DURING MARRIAGE (sahih bukhari, Book #86, Hadith #100) (sahih bukhari, Book #86, Hadith #101) (sahih bukhari, Book #86, Hadith #101)
24. THE SLAVE IS HONORED DUE TO THE FACT HE CAN’T BE HIT BY HIS MASTER (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4078) (sunan abudawud, Book #41, Hadith #5148)
25. DON’T OVER BURDEN THEM Narrated ( sahih bukahir, Book #2, Hadith #29)
26. DUE TO THE MERCY OF ALLAH, SLAVE GETS HALF THE PUNISHMENT OF FREE WOMEN (Chapter #4, Verse #25)
27. SLAVES WILL GET DOUBLE REWARD IN SERVING THEIR MASTER (sahih bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #20) (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #726) (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #655) (sahih bukhari, Book #3, Hadith #97) (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #722) (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #726) (sahih bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #116)
28. SLAVES CAN GET MARRIED. (sunan abudawud, Book #32, Hadith #4101) . (sunan abudawud, Book #32, Hadith #4102)
29. PROPHET JOSEPH WAS CONSIDERED A SLAVE 12:30
30. MOST HONORABLE OF YOU WITH ALLAH IS THE ONE WITH PIETY: FREE OR SLAVE (49:13)
31. SLAVE HAS PROPERTY, AND THE MASTER CAN’T TOUCH HIS RIGHT TO INHERITANCE. (sahih muslim, Book #009, Hadith #3596)
EIGHT
Before, the prophet (peace be upon him) sold a slave that was set free by his owner because the owner was in debt; and the prophet (peace be upon him) paid the debt of the deceased by selling the slave. However, after a certain time, the paying debt of a dead Muslim became incumbent upon the prophet (peace be upon him). So, instead of selling the slave in order to pay the debts of the Muslim, the prophet would pay for the Muslim who is in debt. Also, the prophet (peace be upon him) praised a person who sets his slave free after his demise (sunan abu dawud, Book #29, Hadith #3957). Thus, it is good to set a slave free after one's death. In addition, with this example, Islam intended to set slaves free.
Before
Jabir is reported to have said: A person amongst the Ansar who had no other property declared a slave free after his death. Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) sold him, and Ibn al-Nahham bought him (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4116) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2183) (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #296) (sahih bukhari,Book #34, Hadith #351) (sahih musilim Book #015, Hadith #4116) (sahiih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2184) (sahih bukhari, Book #85, Hadith #80) (sahih bukhari, Book #79, Hadith #707) (sahih bukhari, Book #41, Hadith #588) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4113) (sahih muslim, Book #010, Hadith #3901) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4115)
After
Jabir b. Abdullah said:. . . and he who left behind property that is for his family. and he who dies under debt or leaves children (in helplessness). the responsibility (of paying his debt and bringing up his children) lies on me." (sahih muslim, Book #004, Hadith #1885)
Freed slave after death
Narrated AbudDarda': The Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) said: the similitude of a man who emancipates a slave at the time of his death is like that of a man who gives a present after satisfying his appetite. (sunan abu dawud, Book #29, Hadith #3957)
NINE
These black slaves were not sold because they were an inferior race. However, there is a hadith that says, “a red (i.e. white tinged with red) person is not better than a black person and a black person is not better than a red person.” There are 35 occasions in which liberation is hailed. This is not a law. Rather a one-time occurrence.
Jabir (Allah be pleased with him) reported: There came a slave and pledg- ed allegiance to Allah's Apostle (may peace be upon him) on migration; he (the Holy Prophet) did not know that he was a slave. Then there came his master and demanded him back, whereupon Allah's Apostle (may peace be upon him) said: sell him to me. And he bought him for two black slaves, and he did not afterwards take allegiance from anyone until he had asked him whether he was a slave (or a free man) (sahih bukhari, Book #010, Hadith #3901)
● Bilal, a black slave went to paradise before the prophet (peace be upon him) (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #97)
● The Prophet Muhammad said: “O people! Your God is one and your forefather (Adam) is one. An Arab is not better than a non-Arab and a non-Arab is not better than an Arab, and a red (i.e. white tinged with red) person is not better than a black person and a black person is not better than a red person,[3] except in piety.” Narrated in Mosnad Ahmad, #22978
● “O mankind, . . . Truly, the noblest of you with God is the most pious.” (Quran 49:13)
TEN
In the hadith of an aborted fetus, (sahih bukhari, Book #83, Hadith #44), a slave must be given; however, this is not a law, rather, it is one time occasion; because, in the same case (i.e., aborted fetus) five hundred sheep was given (sunan abu dawud, Book #39, Hadith #4561). Both cases are meant for a limited time, instead of a law. Both can’t be a law, because it would surmount to an inconsistency.
Fetus for slave
Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle gave a verdict regarding an aborted fetus of a woman from Bani Lihyan that the killer (of the fetus) should give a male or female slave (as a Diya) but the woman who was required to give the slave, died, so Allah's Apostle gave the verdict that her inheritance be given to her children and her husband and the Diya be paid by her 'Asaba. (sahih bukhari, Book #80, Hadith #732) (sahih bukhari, Book #83, Hadith #41) (sahih bukhari, Book #83, Hadith #45)
Fetus for sheep
Narrated Buraydah ibn al-Hasib: A woman threw a stone at another woman and she aborted. The dispute was brought to the Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him). He gave judgment that five hundred sheep should be paid for her (unborn) child, and forbade throwing stones. (sunan abu dawud, Book #39, Hadith #4561)
ELEVEN
Narrated Kuraib: the freed slave of Ibn 'Abbas, that Maimuna bint Al-Harith told him that she manumitted a slave-girl without taking the permission of the Prophet. On the day when it was her turn to be with the Prophet, she said, "Do you know, O Allah's Apostle, that I have manumitted my slave-girl?" He said, "Have you really?" She replied in the affirmative. He said, "You would have got more reward if you had given her (i.e. the slave-girl) to one of your maternal uncles." (sahih bukhari, Vol. 3-#765)
Freeing slaves is a great reward: that is undeniable. Moreover, the reward of freeing a slave is so great that the poor Muslims wanted to engage in such act but were poor (didn’t have the capital and resources) (sahih muslim., book 004, #1239). The prophet told his companions (rich and poor), of an act that will be equal to freeing a slave and it is to say such supplication: la ilah ilalah wahdahu la shariika lah (there is no god but Allah, and none should be associated with him) (sahih bukhari, book 75, 412) (book 54, 514) (sahih muslim, book 035, 6508) (book 035, 6510). What is a greater deed than to utter the article of faith (la ilah ilalah: there is no god but Allah)? Emancipation equals the greatest words in the Islamic religion (i.e. article of faith, shahada). Since liberation is equal to the shahada (article of faith), then there is no greater reward than this. Regardless of how much reward is giving the emancipated slave to the maternal uncles is, it’s not greater than the reward of the article of faith (shahada). Another reward is that liberation is the high and steep path (90:13). Moreover, there is a great reward, emancipating descendants of Ishmael (sahih bukhari, book 59, 652) (book 46, 719) (sahih muslim, book 031, 6133) (sunan abu dawud, book 41, 5059). Also, there is a great recompense in freeing a high price slave (sahih muslim., book 001, 0147) (book 006, 246). Additionally, (there is another great reward), that there is piety in emancipating a slave (2:177, 3:92): such piety will be rewarded by Allah (49:3). Liberation is a great reward in itself.
Abu Huraira in Sahih Bukhari (book 59, #676) (book 46, #707) (book 46, #708) (book 46, #709), set a slave free for the sake of Allah and the prophet (peace be upon him) didn’t object to it. Abu Huraira told the prophet (peace be upon him) that he be a witness, and the prophet did exactly that. He didn’t say giving the slave to a relative or another person would be better; rather, he deemed the emancipation of the bondman to be good, by not objecting to it. Additionally, the prophet hailed a man who sets his slave free before death (sunan abu dawud, Book #29, Hadith #3957). He didn’t say that it is better to give this slave to a relative instead of emancipating him. The prophet (peace be upon him) gave a similitude of such person who frees his slave as “a man who gives a present after satisfying his appetite.” With this positive metaphor such a freeing is good and moral: another way Islam intended to end all forms of slavery. Also, the prophet didn't leave one slave when he died, he freed them all (sahih bukhari, book 51, hadith 2) (sahih bukhari, book 59, hadith 738).
Allah knows best!
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful!
The premise of this paper is that Islam intended to end all forms of slavery. Muslim scholars have concluded that indeed all forms of slavery was prohibited: debt, kidnapping, raids, poverty, except warfare. To bring home the premise, bondage is prohibited even through warfare.
Moreover, slaves were given the same rights as free emigrants (sahih bukhari, Book #63, Hadith #210). This shows the elevated position of slaves in the Muslim community.
ONE
In his demise, the prophet (peace be upon him) didn’t leave one slave. He freed all his slaves. This is important, because he is an example for mankind, for all times (33:21). And he shown through this example that ending of slavery is sought after. This further strengthens the premise that Islam intended to end all forms of bondage. By the prophet (peace be upon him) freeing all his slaves, means the freeing of slaves is promoted. Since the one that should be an example for all of mankind freed his slaves before his demise then we as Muslims ought to free our slaves, too.
● Narrated Amr bin Al-Harith: Allah's Apostle died, he did not leave any Dirham or Dinar (i.e. money), a slave or a slave woman (sahih bukhari, Book #51, Hadith #2)
● Narrated 'Amir bin Al-Harith: Allah's Apostle did not leave a Dinar or a Dirham or a male or a female slave (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #738)
TWO
“ . . . And such of your slaves as seek a writing (of emancipation), give them such writing, if you find that there is good and honesty in them. And give them something (yourselves) out of the wealth of Allah which He has bestowed upon you. . .” 24:33
A slave can ask for emancipation at any time (24:33). If a slave has the strength to work towards his liberation, then the master must free him. However, when the slave is working towards his emancipation, the master can’t abuse him by assigning more than the slave can handle. Master must help his slave in whichever task he assigns him (sahih bukhari, Book #2, Hadith #29). Can’t abuse a slave. This is a general statement; however, a master can’t do anything that can be termed as abuse to his slave (sunan abu dawud, Book #32, Hadith #4073); and, can’t over burden his slave (sahih muslim Book #015, Hadith #4095). Once more, Islam intended to end all forms of bondage by giving any slave the right of freedom, by working towards such emancipation. The verse in question (24:33), delivers the right of any slave to march towards his freedom, hence, bringing about the possibility of any person enslaved to work towards his emancipation.
THREE
There are 35 occasions in which freeing a slave is exulted. The essence in freeing slaves is to decrease the number of slaves in the community. Why? Why would there be numerous sources that exults liberation? Because liberation is good; and since it is good then bondage can’t be good, too. It would result in a contradiction. Since, the freeing of persons is sought after, it shows that Islam intended to end all forms of bondage. By decreasing slaves in the community; then we are to believe there is an inevitable march towards a point in which slaves are to be freed (as a whole). How can something that is not good be enshrined by God? Either God enshrines liberation or bondage. Not both! Indeed, He enshrines liberation.
Emancipation erases sins from a Muslim. For example, if a husband has intercourse with his wife in Ramadan, he must free a slave (sahih bukhari., b. 82, 811). In the same token, if a Muslim kill in confinement he must free four slaves (sunan abu dawud, 14, 2681A). For an act to clean the sins of a Muslim means that such act is good and moral. Thus, emancipation is good and moral. Also, slavery was disapproved by God when he is speaking of Pharaoh enslaving the Children of Israel (26:22).
1. Freeing slaves, subtracts the total number of slaves
2. Hence, such subtraction in the community is good
3. Enslavement, adds to the total number of slaves
4. Thus, addition (of slaves) in the community is not good
1. Virtue of freeing a high price slave: (s.m., b. 001, 0147) (b. 006, 246).
2. Umar freed slaves (s.m. b. 013, 4006).
3. Intercourse with wife during Ramadan, free a slave: (s.b., b. 82, 811) (79, 702) (701) (700) (73, 185) (64, 281) (47, 772) (31, 157)(158) (s.a., b. 12, 2207) (s.m. b. 006, 2457) (2459) (2460).
4. Freeing slaves, your body will be freed from hell-fire: (s.b., 79, 706) (s.m., 009, 3600) (3602) (3603) (3605) (s.a, 73, 3415) (29, 3912).
5. Poor believers desire to free slaves, insufficient money: (s.m., b. 004, 1239).
6. Deeds of freeing a slave, la ilah ilalah wahdahu la shariika lah : (s.b., b. 75, 412) (54, 514) (s.m, b. 035, 6508) (6510).
7. Good deeds before Islam: (s.b., b. 24, 517)
8. Good deeds: (s.b., b. 73, 21) (s.b., b. 53, 372) (46, 715) (s.b., 065, 2181) (s.m., 001, 0225).
9. Freeing for the sake of Allah, abu huraira: (s.b., 59, 676) (46, 707) (708) (709).
10. Free slaves during eclipse; (s.b., b.. 8, 163) (46, 695) (696).
11. Serving the apostle: (s.a, b. 29, 3921).
12. Freed 4 descendents of Ishmael; (s.a., b. 23, 3659) (25, 3659) (3955).
13. Will be saved from hell: (s.a, b. 29, 3953) (s.m, b. 009, 3602) (3603) (s.b, b. 46, 693) (29, 3955).
14. 100 slaves freed: (s.a, b. 17, 2877).
15. Umar set slaves free: (s.a., b.13, 2469).
16. Kills in confinement freed four slaves: (s.a, b. 14, 2681A).
17. Day of hudiabia: slaves freed (s.a., b. 14, 2694).
18. Banu hudhayi: slaves freed (s.a., b. 14, 2744).
19. Freed after death safe from hell on the day of judgment: (s.a., b. 29, 3957).
20. Forced intercourse: free a slave (s.a., b. 38, 4445).
21. Fostering a child, free a slave: (s.a., b 10, 1814) (11, 2059).
22. Virtue of freeing descendents of Ishmael: (s.b., 59, 652) (46, 719) (s.m., b. 031, 6133) (s.a., b. 41, 5059).
23. Land of charity freed slaves from it: (s.b., b. 51, 33) (26) (50, 895) (4110) (4109) (4108) (4107) (4106) (4104) (s.m., b. 009, 3580)(3584) (3585) (3587) (3595) (s.m, b. 015, 4102) (4103).
24. Two masters should free the slave as a whole: (s.b., 46, 729) (44, 671) (672) (s.m., b. 009, 3578) (46, 697) (698) (699) (701) (702) (703) (704) (s.a., b. 29, 3922) (3923) (3937).
25. Double reward: in freeing slaves (s.b., b. 55, 655) (46, 723) (52, 255) (4079) (4081) (4082) (4083) (4084) (s.m,b. 006, 3327).
26. Slap. Beat. free slave; (s.a., b. 41, 5148) (s.m,. b. 015, 4078) (4086) (4089).
27. Path that is steep and hard is to free a slave; (90:13).
28. Slander against wife set a slave free: (58:3-4) (s.a., b. 12, 2208).
29. Piety is to free a slave: 2: 177, 3:92.
30. Killed a believer accidentally, free a slave 4:92.
31. Freed one hundred slaves: (s.m., b. 001, 0225).
32. Slaves of hunain set free without ransom (abu bakr): (s.b., b. 53, 372).
33. Master who frees a slave get some of the slaves’ inheritance: (s.m., 009, 3585) (3587).
34. Even abu lahad received some goodness in his grave because he freed a slave; (sahih bukhari)
35. The person who freed will get the right of shared inheritance, al walad: (s.b., b. 53, 397) (404) (34, 378) (46, 736) (737) (47, 752) (24, 570) (34, 365) (30, 94) (364) (s.b., b. 80, 750).
FOUR
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "Allah says, 'I will be against three persons on the day of resurrection. One who sells a free person (as a slave) and eats the price," (sahih bukhari, Book #34, Hadith #430)
Narrated Abdullah ibn Umar: The Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) said: There are three types of people whose prayer is not accepted by Allah: a man who takes into slavery an emancipated male or female slave. (sunan abu dawud, Book #2, Hadith #0593)
This is a categorical proposition that indeed none can take a free man or woman into captivity. This means that even after declaring war upon a society, the Muslims cannot take such society into captivity; because, were the community the Muslims fought with free or not free? They were free. Thus, such community Muslims fought, their freedom can’t be taken away. This is an all inclusive message, which addresses all free persons. If there was a different verdict regarding taking communities into captivity, these two hadiths contradict that. Such community is comprised of free persons: and the selling of free persons is prohibited. The hadith in Sahih Bukhari (Book #34, Hadith #430), clearly states he who sells a free person, such a man the prophet (peace be upon him) is against. Captives are bought and sold, however, such buying and selling (in all circumstances) is negated in the two above-mentioned hadiths. The two hadiths don’t say that one can’t take into captivity free persons, except through warfare. Rather, one can’t take into captivity a free person in all circumstances. To reiterate the premise of this paper, Islam intended to end all forms of enslavement. In all circumstances, taking of a person’s freedom is prohibited. Thus, their rights should not be encroached upon. Since taking of all person’s freedom is outlawed shows once more that Islam intended to end all forms of slavery.
1. No one should enslave free persons
2. Captivity enslaves free persons
3. Thus, captivity is outlawed.
There are 27 sources in the Quran that mention war and fighting, while not suggesting captivity. In another case, freeing is decreasing the number of slaves; however, if the decrease of such bondage is moral, then how can captivity, (which increases the number of slaves), be good, too? When the Muslim civilization overwhelms a people and takes them into captivity, they are adding to the total number of bondmen in the community; hence, not good. However, as we illustrated above there are 35 ways in which freeing of a slave is exulted. If subtracting captives is good then adding captives can’t be good, too. It would be an oxymoron. To take or not to take! Can the Muslims take captives into bondage? Yes or no? There are 17 occasions in which captivity is not promoted (59 sources); while there are only 5 times in which Muslims took captives. Since, the number of times captives were taken is rare, and the counterpart is 17 occasions, then to conclude, the former is not a law (i.e. captivity). For example, the prophet (peace be upon him) cut down the trees of the Jews he was fighting (59:5), which is not a law. Since captivity happened a few times, just like cutting of the trees, it is not a law. Perhaps the trees were cut for a strategic circumstance, and the captives were taken with a certain strategy not made apparent by the sources. The law is not to take captives. If captivity is a law, why are there 17 other occasions that negates it? Thus, there would be a contradiction if both captivities should not be sought after and should be sought after, at the same time. Since, there is a contradiction we must take either captivity or the negation of captivity as a law. Thus, we have chosen negation of captivity as a law due to its abundant enshrinement. The captives increase the total number of slaves in the community. However, such an increase is held to not be good; because captivity was taken by the prophet (peace be upon him) in a very minimal time. Additionally, freeing captives was deemed justified many times (i.e.17 times). Hence, the decrease of slaves is deemed good by freeing the captives or ransoming them. This further show how Islam intended to end all forms of slavery.
1. Either captivity or emancipation is good
2. Both can’t be good, at the same time
3. Due to abundant enshrinement, emancipation is good (59 sources)
4. Since emancipation is moral, then captivity can't be moral, too
5. Thus, captivity is not good
1.Banu an-Nadir were deported, and they took with them whatever their camels could carry, that is, their property, the doors of their houses, and their wood. No captivity (sunan abu dawud, Book #19, Hadith #2998)
2. I want to expel you [Banu Qaynuqa] from this land. So, if anyone amongst you owns some property, he is permitted to sell it . . ." Banu Qaynuq weren’t taken into captivity. (Bukhari 53:392) (Ibn Ishaq/Hisham 546).
3. and to free the captives, and for those in debt... (Chapter #9, Verse #60)
4. Narrated Abu Musa: The Prophet said, "Free the captives . . ." (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #282) (sahih bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #103) (sahih bukhari, Book #70, Hadith #552) (sahih bukhari, Book #83, Hadith #50) (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #285)(sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #283) (sahih bukhari, Book #3, Hadith #111).
5. Muslims were permitted to set free the captives of Hawazin ... (sahih bukhari, Book #47, Hadith #778) (sahih bukhari, Book #47, Hadith #757) (sahih bukhari, ,Book #53, Hadith #360) (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #608) (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #288) (sahih bukhari, Book #53, Hadith #372) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4074) (sunan abu dawud, Book #13, Hadith #2469).
6. hunain ... freed the captives of hunain without ransom, they came out walking in the streets. 'Umar said (to his son), "O Abdullah! See what is the matter." 'Abdullah replied, "Allah's Apostle has freed the captives without ransom." He said (to him), "Go and set free those two slave girls." (sahih bukhari, Book #53, Hadith #372) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4074).
7. Narrated Aisha, Ummul Mu'minin: Juwayriyyah, daughter of al-Harith ibn al-Mustaliq ... She entered into an agreement to purchase her freedom. One hundred families of Banu al-Mustaliq were set free on account of her. (sunan abu dawud, Book #29, Hadith #3920).
8. WHEN THE PROPHET SEIZED MECCA, HE FORGAVE AND FREED ALL: NO CAPTIVES (Ibn Ishaq).
9. And if any of your wives have gone from you to the disbelievers, (as apostates and you asked them to return back your Mahr but they refused) - then you went out for a Ghazwah (military expedition) (against them and) gained booty; then pay from that booty to those whose wives have gone, the equivalent of what they had spent (on their Mahr ). And fear Allah in Whom you believe. (60:11). Women who ran away weren’t made captives.The men are given from the booty the price such men gave to their run away wives, Mahr. Such women weren't made captives.
10. What is your opinion about these captives? Abu Bakr said: They are our kith and kin. I think you should release them after getting from them a ransom. . . I [Umar] am of the opinion that you should hand them over to us so that we may cut off their heads. . . [God chose the verdict of Umar, to kill them, no captivity] (sahih muslim, Book #019, Hadith #4360). 8:67-70
11. Thereafter (is the time) either for generosity (i.e. free them without ransom), or ransom (according to what benefits Islam), until the war lays down its burden. No captivity 47:4.
12. Fighting is mentioned without captivity: 2:190, 2:193, 2:216, 2:217, 2:244, 3:13, 3:167, 4:74- 4:76, 4:84, 4:95, 5:54, 8:39, 8:65, 9:12-14, 9:19, 9:24, 9:29, 9:36, 9:44, 9:81, 9:86, 9:111, 9:123, 22:39, 47:20, 61:4, 61:11.
13. Allah's Apostle manumitted safiyya and then married her. No captivity. Her marriage was her manumission (sahih bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #98).
14. Free captives, (riyadu-saliheen)
15. The prophet chastised Khalid bin Walid for killing and taking people of a town as captives. No captivity. (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #628) (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #299)
16. "The Apostle of Allaah(ﷺ) took them captive without fighting and the Apostle of Allaah(ﷺ) set them free. . ." he freed captives, (sunan abu dawud, Book 14, Hadith 2682).
17. 'It is for the Imam to decide to be generous with he who wills among the captives, or to kill who wills among them, or to ransom who wills among them. Some of the people of knowledge preferred killing over ransoming.Al-Awzai' said: "It has been conveyed to me. That's ayah is abrogated: Thereafter (is the time) either for generosity (to them free without ranson) or ransom (47:4). It was abrogated by: Kill them wherever you find them (2:191). This was narrated to us by Hannad (who said): "Ibn Al-Mubarak narrated to us, from Al-Awza'i."Ishaq bin Mansur said: "I said to Ahmad: 'When the captives are captured' is killing or ransoming better to you?' He said: 'If they are able to ransom' then there is no harm in it. And if they kill, then I do not know of any harm in it.'" Ishaq said: "Wiping them out is better to me, unless it is someone well-known, so that it is hoped that a large amount will be obtained for him." (Jami' at Tirmidhi, book 21, Hadith 29). Either kill or ransom.No captivity.
Captivity
1. We took women captives (sahih muslim, Book #008, Hadith #3373) (sahih muslim, book #8, 3371) (sahih bukhari, Book #77, Hadith #600) (s.b., Book #62, Hadith #137) (s.b., Book #59, Hadith #459) (s.b., Book #46, Hadith #718).
2. conquered Khaybar, they (the people) took out their spoils which contained equipment and captives (sunan abu dawud, Book #14, Hadith #2779) (sahih bukhari, Book #14, Hadith #68) (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #512)
3. Having overcome them and taken them captives (sahih muslim, Book #008, Hadith #3432) (sahih muslim, Book #008, Hadith #3433). 4:24
4. Narrated Buraida: The Prophet sent 'ali to Khalid to bring the khumus (of the booty) and I hated ali, and 'ali had taken a bath (after a sexual act with a slave-girl from the khumus). (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #637)
5. banu Qurayda: (sunan abu dawud, Book #38, Hadith #4390)
FIVE
There are 20 ways that becomes an impediment to owning a slave. For example, the owner must pay charity on behalf of his slave. It means the owner will lose money in owning the slave. On another occasion, the master must buy his slave clothing and feed him with what he eats. The owner must pay expenses on behalf of his slave; which means the master is losing money. Thus, due to these impediments the master is pushed to freeing his slave, in order to save money and resources. Also, there are actions the master must not do, which limits his conduct. These impediments are meant to promote the freeing of slaves (e.g., you can’t beat slaves, sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4078). For another impediment, master who is abusive can’t own a slave, because he must free his slave if he beats him. These impediments show that Islam intended to end all forms of enslavement. By making the owning of slave expensive means Islam intended to end all forms of slavery.
1.Feed them (sunan abu dawud, book 41, 5142) (sahih bukhari, Book #2, Hadith #29)
2. Clothe them with what you wear (sunan abu dawud, book 41, 5142) (sahih bukahir, Book #2, Hadith #29).
3. You can’t slap them (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4078) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4086) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4089) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4083) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4084).
4. You can’t slander against them (sahih bukhari, Book #82, Hadith #841).
5. Sadaqat-ul-Fitr. The master must pay charity on behalf of his slaves (sunan abudawud, Book #9, Hadith #1615) (sunan abudawud, Book #9, Hadith #1616) (sunan abudawud, Book #9, Hadith #1618) (sunan abudawud, Book #9, Hadith #1590) (sahih muslim, Book #010, Hadith #3868) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2155) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2156) (sahih musliim, Book #005, Hadith #2150) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2151) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2153) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2149) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2144) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2145) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2147) (sahih bukhari, Book #24, Hadith #542) (sahih bukhari, Book #24, Hadith #543) (sahih bukhari, Book #25, Hadith #579) (sahih bukhari, Book #25, Hadith #580) (sahih bukhari, Book #25, Hadith #587).
6. You can only have intercourse with her if she allows it. The master is in a perilous position if he buys a slave girl who doesn’t allow him to have intercourse with her. (sunan abu dawud, Book #38, Hadith #4445) (sunan abu dawud, Book #38, Hadith #4446). (sunan abudawud, Book #38, Hadith #4444) (sunan abudawud, Book #38, Hadith #4443).
7. You can’t call yourself the lord and call them slave (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #728) (sunan abudawud, Book #41, Hadith #4957) (sahih bukhari, Book #027, Hadith #5594) (sahih muslim, Book #027, Hadith #5591).
8. Slave will get your inheritance if you don’t have any heir (sahih muslim, Book #004, Hadith #1355).
9. You must share gifts and present with slave (sunan abu dawud, Book #19, Hadith #2946).
10. Can’t over burden them (sahih muslim Book #015, Hadith #4095) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4094) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4093) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4092) ( sahih bukahir, Book #2, Hadith #29) (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #721).
11. The slave will serve you for so long as you don’t contradict Allah and his messenger (peace be upon him) (sahih bukhari).
12. Can’t punish them (sunan abu dawud, book #41, Hadith #5142).
13. He can demand his emancipation. 24:33 (s.b., b. 2, #29)(s.b., b. 44, 682), (s.m, b. 009, 3582)(s.m. b. 015, 4110) (s.m. b. 015, 4095) (s.m., b. 015, 4094)(4093).
14. Can’t abuse a slave. This is a general statement; however, a master can’t do anything that can be termed as abuse to his slave (sunan abu dawud, Book #32, Hadith #4073).
15. Slave can have retaliation from a hit or slap he received from his master ( sahih bukhari, Book #2, Hadith #29).
16. Master must help his slave in whichever task he assigns him. (SAHIH BUKHARI, Book #2, Hadith #29) (SAHIH BUKHARI, Book #46, Hadith #704) (SAHIH BUKHARI, Book #46, Hadith #721) (SAHIH BUKHARI, Book #73, Hadith #76) (SAHIH MUSLIM, Book #015, Hadith #4092) (SAHIH MUSLIM, Book #015, Hadith #4093) (SAHIH MUSLIM, Book #015, Hadith #4094).
17. Can’t separate a mother and her children: (sunan abu dawud, b. 23, 2690).
18. Can’t look at the private parts of your slave at time of marriage: (sunan abu dawud, Book #32, Hadith #4101), (sunan abu dawud, Book #32, Hadith #4102).
19. If you beat a slave he will share with your reward: (sahih muslim Book #005, Hadith #2237).
20. Can’t take the property of a slave, inheritance; (sahih muslim, Book #009, Hadith #3596).
SIX
The prophet (peace be upon him) set slaves free. And below are the many times the companions set slaves free, too. These sources being presented makes manifest the virtue of the prophet and his companions, regarding the decrease of slaves in the Muslim community. To bring home the point, why would there be countless freed slaves if minimizing bondman is not moral and should be aim towards? Hence, these examples show that Islam intended to end all forms of slavery.
The prophet
Thauban, the freed slave of the Messenger of Allah (sahih muslims, Book #003, Hadith #0614) (sahih muslims, Book #004, Hadith #0989)
Haritha the freed slave of Allah's Apostle(sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #305)
Abu Rafi', the freed slave of the Prophet (sahih bukhari, Book #35, Hadith #459)
The companions
the freed slave of Shaiba (sahih bukhari, Book #3, Hadith #92).
the freed slave of 'Uthman bin 'Affan (sahih bukhari, Book #4, Hadith #165)
the freed slave of Um Hani (sahih bukhari, Book #8, Hadith #353)
the freed slave of Ibn 'Abbas (sahih bukhari, Book #12, Hadith #802)
(freed slave of) Ziyad (sahih bukhari, Book #21, Hadith #288)
The freed slave of 'Umar bin 'Ubaidullah (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #210)
Al-Khattab appointed a freed slave of his (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #292)
the freed slave of Shaddad (sahih bukhari, Book #002, Hadith #0464)
The freed slave of Usama bin Zaid (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #81)
the freed slave of Abu Bakr (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #97)
the freed slave of Abu Hudhaifa (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #103)
freed slave of an Ansari woman (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #335)
The freed slave of Abu Qilaba (sahih bukhari, Book #59, Hadith #506)
the freed slave of Ibn Azhar (sahih bukhari, Book #68, Hadith #478)
the freed slave of Al-Mughira bin Shu'ba (sahih bukhari, Book #75, Hadith #342)
the freed slave of Mahri (sahih muslims, Book #002, Hadith #0466)
the freed slave of 'A'isha (sahih muslims, Book #004, Hadith #1316)
the freed slave of Umm Hani (sahih muslims, Book #004, Hadith #1555)
the freed slave of Umm al-Fadl (sahih muslims, Book #006, Hadith #2496)
the freed slave of Asma' bint Abu Bakr (sahih muslims, Book #007, Hadith #2853)
the freed slave of Umm Habiba (sahih muslims, Book #007, Hadith #2963)
the freed slave of 'Azza (sahih muslims, Book #009, Hadith #3489)
the freed slave of Maimuna (sahih muslims, Book #016, Hadith #4127)
the freed slave of Abu Qatada (sahih muslims, Book #019, Hadith #4339)
the freed slave of Abu Ayyub Ansiri (sahih muslims, Book #023, Hadith #5099)
the freed slave of Nafi' b. 'Abd al-Harith (sahih muslims, Book #024, Hadith #5199)
the freed slave of Banu Zuhra (sahih muslims, Book #024, Hadith #5265)
the freed slave of Banu Hashim (sahih muslims, Book #030, Hadith #5805)
the freed slave of Shaiba (sahih muslims, Book #030, Hadith #5829)
the freed slave of Nasriyyin (sahih muslims, Book #032, Hadith #6293)
SEVEN
Allah calls many people slaves. This is a point of honor. For example, when God was speaking of sending the Quran upon prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), He called him a slave (25:1). Additionally, when Allah makes known the night journey of prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), he is called a slave (17:1). When God places the greatest honor on Muhammad (peace be upon him), the prophet was called a slave. This further proves that Islam intended to end all forms of slavery, by calling all of creation slaves (making all equal) (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #108).
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "You should not say, 'Feed your lord (Rabbaka), help your lord in performing ablution, or give water to your lord, but should say, 'my master (e.g. Feed your master instead of lord etc.) (Saiyidi), or my guardian (Maulai), and one should not say, my slave (Abdi), or my girl-slave (Amati), but should say, my lad (Fatai), my lass (Fatati), and 'my boy (Ghulami)." (sahih bukhari, 46, 728) (sunan abu dawud, Book #41, Hadith #4957) (sahih muslim, Book #027, Hadith #5594) (sahih muslim, Book #027, Hadith #5591)
Being called a slave is honorable
1.MUHAMMAD: called a slave (Sahih bukhari, Book #12, Hadith #797) (sahih bukhari Book #22, Hadith #294) (sahih bukhari, Book #8, Hadith #455) (sahih bukhari, Book #21, Hadith #230) (sahih bukhari, Book #34, Hadith #335)(sunan abuddawud, Book #55, Hadith #644) (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #297) (sahih bukhari, Book #56, Hadith #725).
2. MESSIAH : called a slave(sahih musim, Book #001, Hadith #0043) (Chapter #19, Verse #30) (Chapter #18, Verse #102) (Chapter #43, Verse #59) (sahih bukhari, Book #76, Hadith #533) (sahih bukhari, Book #63, Hadith #209) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #264) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #249) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #250) (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #644) (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #654) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #251) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #149) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #150).
3. MOSES: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #23, Hadith #423) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #3)(sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #619).
4. KHADIR: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #3, Hadith #74) (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #612) (sahih bukhari Book #3, Hadith #124) (sahih bukhari, Book #93, Hadith #570).
5. BELIEVERS: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #12, Hadith #794) (sahih bukahri, Book #12, Hadith #797) (sahih bukhari, Book #23, Hadith #373) (Chapter #17, Verse #53) (Chapter #17, Verse #65).
6. DEAD PERSON: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #23, Hadith #456).
7. DWELLERS OF PARADISE: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #31, Hadith #121), 89:27-29.
8. ANGEL GABRIEL: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #379) (sahih bukhari, Book #60, Hadith #380).
9. VICTORIOUS SLAVES OF ALLAH: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #238) (sahih bukhari, Book #27, Hadith #23).
10. DAVID AND SOLOMON: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #633).
11. NOAH: called a slave (Chapter #17, Verse #3).
12. CHILDREN OF ISRAEL: called a slave (Chapter #20, Verse #77) (Chapter #26, Verse #52).
13. CHIEF OF THE BELIEVERS: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #312).
14. MUJAHIDEEN: called a slave (sahih bukhari, Book #78, Hadith #661).
15. AYYUB: called a slave (Chapter #38, Verse #41)
16. IBRAHIM: called a slave (Chapter #38, Verse #45).
17. ALL CREATION: called slaves (sahih bukhari, Book #52, Hadith #108)
Slaves who were honored
1. SLAVES IN THE PILGRIMAGE, (sahih bukhari, Book #26, Hadith #769).
2. SLAVE WAS GIVEN INHERITANCE OF A MAN WHO PAST AWAY, (sunan abudawud, Book #18, Hadith #2899)
3. SLAVE AND FREE WOMEN WERE GIVEN BEADS (financial gain) (50) (sunan abu dawud, Book #19, Hadith #2946)
4. SLAVE GETS SOME OF THE SPOILS OF WAR (sahih muslim, Book #009, Hadith #3596)
5. COMPANIONS HONOR A SLAVE (sahih muslim, Book #031, Hadith #6079)
6. SLAVE AND FREE MEN ARE BEING SOUGHT FORGIVENESS FOR ALLAH (sahih muslim, Book #031, Hadith #6100)
7. obey (him) even if he were a slave maimed (and disabled). (sahih muslims, Book #020, Hadith #4525) (sahih muslim, Book #020, Hadith #4530) (sahih muslim, Book #020, Hadith #4528) (sahih muslim, Book #004, Hadith #1355) (sahih bukhari, Book #020, Hadith #4526) (sahih muslim, Book #007, Hadith #2977)(sahih muslim, Book #020, Hadith #4532)
8. He who accused his slave of adultery, punishment would be imposed upon him on the Day of Resurrection, (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4090)
9. NO ONE SHOULD TAKE THE INHERITANCE OF A SLAVE (sahih muslim, Book #009, Hadith #3596)
10. FREED SLAVE LEADING THE PEOPLE (sahih muslim, Book #004, Hadith #1780)
11. SLAVE GIRL IS MORE HONORABLE AND BETTER THAN AN APPEALING MAN (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #645)
12. SLAVES HAVE THE SAME RIGHTS AS THE FREE EMIGRANTS (sahih bukhari, Book #63, Hadith #210)
13. BELIEVING SLAVE IS BETTER THAN A FREE DISBELIEVER (Quran, 2:221)
14. A SLAVE HAGAR (sahih bukhari)
15. Ishmael the son of slave (Hagar) was made a prophet: (Chapter #4, Verse #163) (Chapter #19, Verse #54) (Chapter #38, Verse #48) (Chapter #2, Verse #136) (Chapter #6, Verse #86)
16. SLAVE LEADS IN PRAYER WHICH IS A GREAT HONOR (sahih bukhari, Book #11, Hadith #661)
17. BILAL FORMER SLAVE ENTERED PARADISE BEFORE THE BELOVED PROPHET (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #97)
18. FREED SLAVE IS ONE OF THE MEN PROPHET SAID SHOULD BE LEARNED FROM THE QURAN (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #103) (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #104) (sahih bukhari, Book #58, Hadith #150) (sahih bukhari, Book #58, Hadith #153)
19. GOD GAVE THE PRIVILEGE OF THE FIRST BELIEVERS TO BE 5 OUT OF 8 SLAVES, (sahih bukhari, Book #58, Hadith #197) (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #12)
20. PROPHET (SAW) TOOK THE ADVICE OF A SLAVE WOMAN (See Hadith No. 274, Vol. 6) (sahih bukhari, Book #92, Hadith #462)
21. FREEING A MUSLIM SLAVE WILL FREE YOU FROM HELL FIRE (sahih bukhari, Book #79, Hadith #706)
22. CANNOT SLANDER A SLAVE, WILL BE PUNISHED IN THE HEREAFTER, (sahih bukhari, Book #82, Hadith #841) (sahih bukhari, Book #82, Hadith #841)
23. VIRGIN AND SLAVE WOMEN BE SOUGHT THEIR OPINION DURING MARRIAGE (sahih bukhari, Book #86, Hadith #100) (sahih bukhari, Book #86, Hadith #101) (sahih bukhari, Book #86, Hadith #101)
24. THE SLAVE IS HONORED DUE TO THE FACT HE CAN’T BE HIT BY HIS MASTER (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4078) (sunan abudawud, Book #41, Hadith #5148)
25. DON’T OVER BURDEN THEM Narrated ( sahih bukahir, Book #2, Hadith #29)
26. DUE TO THE MERCY OF ALLAH, SLAVE GETS HALF THE PUNISHMENT OF FREE WOMEN (Chapter #4, Verse #25)
27. SLAVES WILL GET DOUBLE REWARD IN SERVING THEIR MASTER (sahih bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #20) (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #726) (sahih bukhari, Book #55, Hadith #655) (sahih bukhari, Book #3, Hadith #97) (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #722) (sahih bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #726) (sahih bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #116)
28. SLAVES CAN GET MARRIED. (sunan abudawud, Book #32, Hadith #4101) . (sunan abudawud, Book #32, Hadith #4102)
29. PROPHET JOSEPH WAS CONSIDERED A SLAVE 12:30
30. MOST HONORABLE OF YOU WITH ALLAH IS THE ONE WITH PIETY: FREE OR SLAVE (49:13)
31. SLAVE HAS PROPERTY, AND THE MASTER CAN’T TOUCH HIS RIGHT TO INHERITANCE. (sahih muslim, Book #009, Hadith #3596)
EIGHT
Before, the prophet (peace be upon him) sold a slave that was set free by his owner because the owner was in debt; and the prophet (peace be upon him) paid the debt of the deceased by selling the slave. However, after a certain time, the paying debt of a dead Muslim became incumbent upon the prophet (peace be upon him). So, instead of selling the slave in order to pay the debts of the Muslim, the prophet would pay for the Muslim who is in debt. Also, the prophet (peace be upon him) praised a person who sets his slave free after his demise (sunan abu dawud, Book #29, Hadith #3957). Thus, it is good to set a slave free after one's death. In addition, with this example, Islam intended to set slaves free.
Before
Jabir is reported to have said: A person amongst the Ansar who had no other property declared a slave free after his death. Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) sold him, and Ibn al-Nahham bought him (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4116) (sahih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2183) (sahih bukhari, Book #89, Hadith #296) (sahih bukhari,Book #34, Hadith #351) (sahih musilim Book #015, Hadith #4116) (sahiih muslim, Book #005, Hadith #2184) (sahih bukhari, Book #85, Hadith #80) (sahih bukhari, Book #79, Hadith #707) (sahih bukhari, Book #41, Hadith #588) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4113) (sahih muslim, Book #010, Hadith #3901) (sahih muslim, Book #015, Hadith #4115)
After
Jabir b. Abdullah said:. . . and he who left behind property that is for his family. and he who dies under debt or leaves children (in helplessness). the responsibility (of paying his debt and bringing up his children) lies on me." (sahih muslim, Book #004, Hadith #1885)
Freed slave after death
Narrated AbudDarda': The Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) said: the similitude of a man who emancipates a slave at the time of his death is like that of a man who gives a present after satisfying his appetite. (sunan abu dawud, Book #29, Hadith #3957)
NINE
These black slaves were not sold because they were an inferior race. However, there is a hadith that says, “a red (i.e. white tinged with red) person is not better than a black person and a black person is not better than a red person.” There are 35 occasions in which liberation is hailed. This is not a law. Rather a one-time occurrence.
Jabir (Allah be pleased with him) reported: There came a slave and pledg- ed allegiance to Allah's Apostle (may peace be upon him) on migration; he (the Holy Prophet) did not know that he was a slave. Then there came his master and demanded him back, whereupon Allah's Apostle (may peace be upon him) said: sell him to me. And he bought him for two black slaves, and he did not afterwards take allegiance from anyone until he had asked him whether he was a slave (or a free man) (sahih bukhari, Book #010, Hadith #3901)
● Bilal, a black slave went to paradise before the prophet (peace be upon him) (sahih bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #97)
● The Prophet Muhammad said: “O people! Your God is one and your forefather (Adam) is one. An Arab is not better than a non-Arab and a non-Arab is not better than an Arab, and a red (i.e. white tinged with red) person is not better than a black person and a black person is not better than a red person,[3] except in piety.” Narrated in Mosnad Ahmad, #22978
● “O mankind, . . . Truly, the noblest of you with God is the most pious.” (Quran 49:13)
TEN
In the hadith of an aborted fetus, (sahih bukhari, Book #83, Hadith #44), a slave must be given; however, this is not a law, rather, it is one time occasion; because, in the same case (i.e., aborted fetus) five hundred sheep was given (sunan abu dawud, Book #39, Hadith #4561). Both cases are meant for a limited time, instead of a law. Both can’t be a law, because it would surmount to an inconsistency.
Fetus for slave
Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle gave a verdict regarding an aborted fetus of a woman from Bani Lihyan that the killer (of the fetus) should give a male or female slave (as a Diya) but the woman who was required to give the slave, died, so Allah's Apostle gave the verdict that her inheritance be given to her children and her husband and the Diya be paid by her 'Asaba. (sahih bukhari, Book #80, Hadith #732) (sahih bukhari, Book #83, Hadith #41) (sahih bukhari, Book #83, Hadith #45)
Fetus for sheep
Narrated Buraydah ibn al-Hasib: A woman threw a stone at another woman and she aborted. The dispute was brought to the Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him). He gave judgment that five hundred sheep should be paid for her (unborn) child, and forbade throwing stones. (sunan abu dawud, Book #39, Hadith #4561)
ELEVEN
Narrated Kuraib: the freed slave of Ibn 'Abbas, that Maimuna bint Al-Harith told him that she manumitted a slave-girl without taking the permission of the Prophet. On the day when it was her turn to be with the Prophet, she said, "Do you know, O Allah's Apostle, that I have manumitted my slave-girl?" He said, "Have you really?" She replied in the affirmative. He said, "You would have got more reward if you had given her (i.e. the slave-girl) to one of your maternal uncles." (sahih bukhari, Vol. 3-#765)
Freeing slaves is a great reward: that is undeniable. Moreover, the reward of freeing a slave is so great that the poor Muslims wanted to engage in such act but were poor (didn’t have the capital and resources) (sahih muslim., book 004, #1239). The prophet told his companions (rich and poor), of an act that will be equal to freeing a slave and it is to say such supplication: la ilah ilalah wahdahu la shariika lah (there is no god but Allah, and none should be associated with him) (sahih bukhari, book 75, 412) (book 54, 514) (sahih muslim, book 035, 6508) (book 035, 6510). What is a greater deed than to utter the article of faith (la ilah ilalah: there is no god but Allah)? Emancipation equals the greatest words in the Islamic religion (i.e. article of faith, shahada). Since liberation is equal to the shahada (article of faith), then there is no greater reward than this. Regardless of how much reward is giving the emancipated slave to the maternal uncles is, it’s not greater than the reward of the article of faith (shahada). Another reward is that liberation is the high and steep path (90:13). Moreover, there is a great reward, emancipating descendants of Ishmael (sahih bukhari, book 59, 652) (book 46, 719) (sahih muslim, book 031, 6133) (sunan abu dawud, book 41, 5059). Also, there is a great recompense in freeing a high price slave (sahih muslim., book 001, 0147) (book 006, 246). Additionally, (there is another great reward), that there is piety in emancipating a slave (2:177, 3:92): such piety will be rewarded by Allah (49:3). Liberation is a great reward in itself.
Abu Huraira in Sahih Bukhari (book 59, #676) (book 46, #707) (book 46, #708) (book 46, #709), set a slave free for the sake of Allah and the prophet (peace be upon him) didn’t object to it. Abu Huraira told the prophet (peace be upon him) that he be a witness, and the prophet did exactly that. He didn’t say giving the slave to a relative or another person would be better; rather, he deemed the emancipation of the bondman to be good, by not objecting to it. Additionally, the prophet hailed a man who sets his slave free before death (sunan abu dawud, Book #29, Hadith #3957). He didn’t say that it is better to give this slave to a relative instead of emancipating him. The prophet (peace be upon him) gave a similitude of such person who frees his slave as “a man who gives a present after satisfying his appetite.” With this positive metaphor such a freeing is good and moral: another way Islam intended to end all forms of slavery. Also, the prophet didn't leave one slave when he died, he freed them all (sahih bukhari, book 51, hadith 2) (sahih bukhari, book 59, hadith 738).
Allah knows best!