Is Jumu'ah obligatory upon a slave?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Friday Prayer
Primary text
There are two narrations concerning the slave: one stating that Jumu'ah is obligatory upon him, and another stating it is not obligatory. The evidence against obligation is based on the Hadith stating: 'Jumu'ah is a duty binding upon every Muslim, except four: a male slave, a woman, a child, or a sick person.' Furthermore, since Jumu'ah requires striving from afar, it is not obligatory upon one whose utility is owned by another, similar to one confined by debt.
Supporting text
The view that it is obligatory is supported by the verse: 'O you who have believed, when [the adhan] is called for the prayer on the day of Jumu'ah, then proceed to the remembrance of Allah.' It is argued that since congregational prayer is obligatory upon him, Jumu'ah, being more emphasized, should also be obligatory. Another opinion holds it is obligatory upon a slave who pays tax, as his obligation has shifted to property, resembling someone in debt.