Is compensation obligatory if game perishes while a pilgrim attempts to rescue it from a predator, a net, or while removing an obstruction from its limb?
Chapter on Ransom (Fidyah) and Penalty for Hunting
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
If a pilgrim saves game from a predator or a hunter's net, or removes an entanglement like a thread from its leg, and the animal dies as a result, no compensation is due. This action is considered permissible because it is an act undertaken for the benefit of the animal, and no liability arises from such permissible actions, just as a guardian is not liable if a child dies while receiving necessary medical treatment. Since the act was not intentional killing, the verse imposing penalties for intentional killing does not apply.
Supporting text
A view attributed to Qatadah suggests that compensation is obligatory based on the general application of the verse and because the lack of intent to kill makes it similar to accidental killing.