Muhammad The Liberator of Mankind — Page 27
Muhammadas the Liberator of Mankind teachings, it is entirely unlawful to hold a person captive if they have the means to pay their ransom. However, there remains a scenario in which neither the captive can afford the ransom nor the master has the means to release them without receiving payment. It is entirely possible that the expenses incurred in the battle may have depleted the master's own financial resources. In such cases, the Holy Quran instructs believers: وَالَّذِينَ يَبْتَغُونَ الْكِتَبَ مِمَّا مَلَكَتْ أَيْمَانُكُمْ فَكَاتِبُوهُمْ إِنْ عَلِمْتُمْ فِيْهِمْ خَيْرًا وَأَتُوْهُمْ مِنْ مَّالِ اللَّهِ الَّذِي الكُمْ This indicates that slaves wishing to settle their ransom in instalments should engage in negotiations, and if slave owners are convinced of their ability to earn, they should be freed. Moreover, it is encouraged for slave owners to assist them with the resources bestowed upon them by Allah the Exalted. This entails providing slaves with investments or means to generate income for paying their ransom. Islam advises affluent individuals and governments to liberate those who lack the means to pay their ransom. And such as desire a deed of manumission in writing from among those whom your right hands possess, write it for them if you know any good in them; and give them out of the wealth of Allah which He has bestowed upon you. Surah an-Nür, 24:34 [Publishers] 27