Is the declaration of Islam valid for a minor?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Apostate
Primary text
The declaration of Islam is valid in general for a minor. This is the position of Abu Hanifa and his companions, Ishaq, Ibn Abi Shaybah, and Abu Ayyub. The validity stems from the general nature of the Prophet's saying, 'Whoever says, 'There is no god but Allah,' enters Paradise,' and the command to fight people until they say it, which safeguards their lives and wealth. Furthermore, the saying, 'Every newborn is born upon the primordial nature (*fitra*),' encompasses minors. Since Islam is a pure act of worship, it is valid from an intelligent minor, just as prayer and Hajj are valid. Ali (may God be pleased with him) accepted Islam as a minor, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) did not reject the Islam of anyone, young or old.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i and Zufar hold that a minor's Islam is invalid until puberty, citing the Hadith: 'The pen is lifted from three, until they mature.' They argue that Islam establishes obligations, thus it cannot be valid from a minor, similar to a gift (*hibah*). They also equate the minor with the insane or sleeping, as they are not obligated. Regarding the Hadith about the lifted pen, it implies no sin is recorded against them, whereas Islam is a benefit recorded for them, similar to prayer, which is valid but not obligatory.