Is it permissible to hire a cupper (Hajjam) for services other than cupping?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Leasing

Book 25 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

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Hiring a cupper for procedures other than cupping, such as phlebotomy (bloodletting), hair cutting or trimming, circumcision, or cutting off a body part when there is a necessity for it, is permissible. This ruling is based on the Prophet's saying, 'The earnings of the cupper are foul (khabith),' which is understood to specifically refer to cupping itself, similar to how the prohibition of the prostitute's dowry refers specifically to prostitution. This prohibition is considered an exception deviating from general analogy, thus being restricted to the specific act mentioned. Since these necessary procedures do not involve prohibition and are needed, the contract of hire (ijara) and taking payment for them are allowed, analogous to all other permissible benefits.