What is the required expiation (Fidyah) for a person in Ihram who kills lice or combs their hair?
Chapter on What the Muhrim Must Avoid and What is Permissible for Him
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
If a person in Ihram intentionally combs their hair or kills lice, there is no obligatory Fidyah required for the act of killing the louse itself, because lice hold no monetary value and their killing is not categorized as hunting or consumption. The precedent of Ka'b ibn 'Ujrah confirms that no penalty was levied specifically for the lice destroyed during the shaving of his head. However, there is a differing narration from Ahmad regarding one who kills a louse, suggesting that an offering of charity should be made. Under this view, any charity suffices, whether many or few lice were killed. This aligns with the opinion of the People of Opinion (Ahl al-Ra'y).
Supporting text
Malik stipulated a handful of food for expiation, while Ishaq suggested the equivalent of a date (tamrah) or more. Ata suggested a handful of food. These differing measures are understood as approximations for the minimum amount suitable for charity, supporting the general principle of giving something in charity for the transgression.