Is the meat permissible if a person of the Book slaughters an animal forbidden to them, such as an animal with hooves or one containing forbidden fat?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Hunting and Slaughter
Primary text
The apparent view of Ahmad and Al-Khiraqi permits the slaughter in such cases. Ahmad cited a report from Malik concerning a Jew slaughtering a sheep, where Malik stated one should not eat its fat, indicating a subtle point. The evidence supporting permissibility includes the general ruling that the food of the People of the Book is lawful (Quran 5:5), which scholars interpret to mean their slaughter. Furthermore, the act of slaughtering, if it permits the meat and hide, also permits the fat, analogous to the slaughter performed by a Muslim. A Hadith supports this, where Abdullah ibn Mughaffal narrated that a skin bag of fat was presented to the Prophet (peace be upon him) after the conquest of Khaybar, and he smiled upon seeing the narrator desire it. This is agreed upon (Muttafaq 'alayh).
Supporting text
A differing opinion, adopted by Abu Al-Hasan Al-Tamimi and Al-Qadi, holds that it is forbidden. This view is attributed to Al-Dahhak, Mujahid, and Suwar, and is the position of Malik. The evidence cited is that the permissible food (Quran 5:5) does not include this specific item, and it is a part of the animal not permitted to the slaughterer, thus not permitted to others, similar to blood. Furthermore, this view suggests the general ruling does not apply when the slaughterer partakes in something forbidden to him.