What is required if the duration of hospitality is stipulated absolutely in the Dhimma contract?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jizya
Primary text
If hospitality is stipulated absolutely, the ruling is that the obligation is for one day and one night, because this is what is obligatory upon Muslims. They are not to be burdened with providing a sacrificial animal (dhabihah), nor hospitality superior to their own standard of food. It is narrated that 'Umar ruled, in response to the people of Dhimma complaining about being charged for a sacrificial animal, 'Feed them with what you eat.' Al-Awza'i held that they are not obligated to provide a sacrificial animal or barley.
Supporting text
Al-Qadi suggests that if the stipulation is absolute, barley is not required for the horses, but it is probable that it is required for the horses because the custom dictates it, making it equivalent to bread for a man.