What is the ruling if a limb is severed and stable life is not retained?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Hunting and Slaughter
Primary text
If a limb is severed and stable life is no longer present, the commonly accepted narration from Ahmad permits eating the severed part. This ruling is based on the understanding that the Prophet’s saying, "Whatever is severed from a living animal is carrion," applies only when the animal is moving and walking after the severance. If the separation and death occur simultaneously or immediately following the injury, it is permissible. This is the view of Al-Shafi'i, 'Ali, 'Ata', and Al-Hasan.
Supporting text
A secondary narration from Ahmad forbids eating the severed part. This aligns with the view of Abu Hanifah, based on the hadith "Whatever is severed from a living animal is carrion," and because severance in this case usually does not prevent the animal from surviving long enough to be considered lawfully killed. Qatadah, Ibrahim, and 'Ikrimah stated that if the separation and death occur together, both parts are eaten; if the animal walks after the limb is severed, the main body is eaten, but not the severed limb. If the severed piece remains attached only by skin, it is lawful according to one narration cited by Abu Al-Khattab.