What is the ruling on individual combat (Mubaraza) during battle?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jihad
Primary text
Individual combat (Mubaraza) is permissible with the permission of the Amir, according to the general opinion of scholars. Evidence supports this as Hamzah, Ali, and 'Ubaydah ibn al-Harith dueled on the day of Badr with the Prophet's permission. Ali dueled Amr ibn Abd Wudd on the day of the Trench. Companions repeatedly engaged in dueling during and after the Prophet's era without any known objection, suggesting consensus. The practice is generally incumbent upon seeking the Amir's permission because the Imam knows the capabilities of his knights and the enemy's forces, preventing self-endangerment that could break Muslim morale.
Supporting text
A dissenting view holds that Al-Hasan did not recognize or disliked Mubaraza. Malik, Al-Shafi'i, and Ibn al-Mundhir permit it without requiring permission based on the action of Abu Qatadah, who did not reportedly seek permission from the Prophet (PBUH). Al-Hasan's initial opposition and the actions of many duelists suggest permission was not always sought, distinguishing between dueling before general engagement and fighting during the melee.