What is the ruling if the deceased master had debts that encompass the value of the manumitted slave and his earnings?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Bequests
Primary text
If the deceased master had debts that completely absorb the value of the slave and his subsequent earnings, nothing is considered freed, as debts take precedence over voluntary gifts (bequests). If the debt does not absorb the full value, the debt is paid first from the slave and his earnings, and the remainder is divided according to the rules governing a fully manumitted slave and his earnings.
Supporting text
If the debt is equal to the slave's value, half the slave and half the earnings are used to settle the debt, and the remainder is split equally between the heirs and the manumission (freedom).