The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophets (sa) - Volume II — Page 221
V - Conduct of the Holy Prophet sa with Slaves and His Teachings on the Issue of Slavery 221 3. The employment of an appropriate service. For example, if the prisoners were experienced in a trade, it was permissible to agree that they would be released, if they taught their skill to a few Muslims. THIRDLY: To keep the prisoners in captivity until the end of war and this ‘end’ implies a complete cessation. This was not only until the chain of hostile activities practically came to a halt, but also until the losses incurred by the country and nation as a result, and for which the enemy nation was considered responsible, had been repaid, as indicated in the Qur’ānic words ‘the laying down of burdens. ’ This last method had been proposed so that if the circumstances were such that it was unwise to release the prisoners of the disbelievers by way of benevolence; if they themselves, or for some reason, if their relatives did not agree to pay the ransom due to their obstinacy or enmity, then prisoners could be held in captivity until the true cessation of war. In this way, until their release, the Muslims would be saved from any further hardships or threats. It is this very method which has been named slavery by Islām and which has been permitted by Islām. However, if one contemplates, in actuality, this is not slavery; rather, it is merely imprisonment. Then, even this imprisonment or pseudo slavery has been limited and regulated by a fundamental principle. As such, Allāh the Exalted states: Meaning, “O ye Muslims! If you deem stern action appropriate by following a course of retribution and punishment, it is incumbent upon you that your stern action does not exceed that inflicted upon you by the disbelievers. It is also necessary that you do not engage in such conduct if the disbelievers have not taken the lead and initiated conflict. However, if it is possible for you to show patience, then show patience, for patience is best. ” 1 In light of this fundamental verse, that option relevant to prisoners of war, whereby a period of imprisonment may be lengthened, can take on 1 An-Naḥl (16:127)