Is seven sheep sufficient in place of a camel (Badanah) for Hady when a camel is available?
Chapter on Ransom (Fidyah) and Penalty for Hunting
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
The apparent ruling is that seven sheep suffice for the Badanah even when the animal is obligatory due to a vow (Nadhr), penalty for hunting (Jaza' Sayd), or penalty for sexual intercourse during Ihram (Kaffarat Wati). This is because the sheep is considered equal to one-seventh of a camel, and the sheep's meat is superior in taste. Therefore, substituting a superior item for a lesser one is permissible, analogous to substituting a camel for a sheep.
Supporting text
Ibn 'Aqil stated that seven sheep suffice only in the absence of the Badanah, as it is a substitute and should not be resorted to if the original item is available, similar to other substitutes. However, in the absence of the camel, it is permissible, as evidenced by the report that the Prophet (peace be upon him) commanded a man who owed a Badanah but could not find one to purchase and slaughter seven sheep instead.