The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophets (sa) - Volume II — Page 181
V - Conduct of the Holy Prophet sa with Slaves and His Teachings on the Issue of Slavery 181 In this verse it has been commanded that slaves should be treated kindly and benevolently. Then He states: Meaning, “O ye Muslims! Marry not idolatrous women until they believe; And know that a Muslim bond-woman is better than an idolatress, although she may appear better to you; And O ye Muslims! Give not believing women in marriage to idolaters, until they believe; And know that even a Muslim slave is better than an idolater, although he may appear better to you. ” 1 In this verse, aside from the fact that the position of slaves has been made significantly stronger, a door has been opened for marriages of free Muslim men and women with slaves and bond-women, so that this relationship of equality and affinity improves the state of slaves as quickly as possible. As such, among other wisdoms, according to this principle, the Holy Qur’ān has also commanded that after the final and exceptional limit of four wives has been reached, if the question of marrying a female servant arises for a Muslim, this fixed limit of four would not be a hindrance in his path. Such a person would be permitted to marry the female servant in all circumstances 2 so that the path to the improvement of the state of slaves is never obstructed. Then He states:. . . . . . . Meaning, “O Messenger! The women you have married until now (are sufficient for your endeavours in preaching, training and governance), hence, it is not permitted that you marry any other women. Albeit, if the question of marrying a female slave arises then permission is granted. ” 3 1 Al-Baqarah (2:222) 2 An-Nisā’ (4:4) 3 Al-Aḥzāb (33:53)