Is a *mahr* (dower) obligatory when a master marries his male slave to his female slave?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Dowry (Mahr)

Book 36 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

No *mahr* is obligatory in this situation. If it were obligatory, it would be due to the female slave's master. However, no monetary obligation is due from a master to his slave. Abu Abdullah stated that if a master marries his male slave to his female slave, it is preferred that it be done with a *mahr* and witnesses. If the male slave subsequently divorces her, the *mahr* becomes due upon his manumission. Jaber held that marrying them without a *mahr* is permissible.

Supporting text

Abu Al-Khattab stated that the specified *mahr* or the *mahr* of the like must be established to prevent the marriage from being without a *mahr*; however, it is then waived due to the impossibility of proving it.