Is the contract for a Muslim to rent out his labor for a specific, defined task to a Dhimmi permissible?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Leasing
Primary text
It is permissible for a Muslim to hire himself out to a Dhimmi for a specific task defined in terms of obligation, such as tailoring a garment or laundry work, without known disagreement. This is evidenced by the action of Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, who hired himself out to a Jew to draw water for a date per bucket, and he informed the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, who did not disapprove. This is also supported by the practice of the Ansar. This contract is permissible because it is a transaction of exchange that does not involve the humiliation or servitude of the Muslim, resembling a sale.