Is the contract for a Muslim to rent out his labor for a specified duration to a Dhimmi for non-service work permissible?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Leasing
Primary text
It is permissible for a Muslim to hire himself out to a Dhimmi for work that is not personal service, provided the duration is known. This is in accordance with the apparent view of Ahmad, based on his statement in Al-Athram's narration that if the hiring is for some work, it is permissible. This is considered hiring for labor, which is distinct from personal service as it does not entail humiliation, and distinct from sale as it does not involve establishing ownership over the Muslim.
Supporting text
Some of our companions suggested that the apparent view of Ahmad prohibits this, interpreting his statement to focus on the potential restraint involved, similar to a sale. However, the correct view is that Ahmad specifically restricted the prohibition to service contracts, thereby permitting hiring for other types of work.