What is the ruling regarding books taken as spoils of war?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Jihad

Book 54 · Issue 3 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If the books taken as spoils are those from which benefit can be derived, such as books on medicine, language, or poetry, they are considered spoils. If the books are of a type that holds no benefit, such as the Torah or the Gospel, and it is possible to utilize their hides or paper after washing them thoroughly, then they become spoils. Otherwise, selling them is not permissible.