What is the obligation of slave owners regarding the maintenance of their slaves?
Chapter on Maintenance of Slaves
Al-Mughni
Book of Maintenance (Nafaqāt)
Primary text
The maintenance and clothing (Nafaqah and Kiswah) of slaves are obligatory upon their owners, established by Sunnah and scholarly consensus (Ijma). The evidence from Sunnah includes the narration of Abu Dharr, where the Prophet, peace be upon him, stated that one should feed slaves what one eats and clothe them as one clothes oneself, warning against burdening them beyond their capacity. Another narration from Abu Hurairah confirms the slave is entitled to his food and clothing according to custom (Ma'ruf). Consensus confirms this obligation because the slave requires sustenance, and their benefits belong to the master, making the master the most responsible party, similar to the master's responsibility for his livestock.
Supporting text
The required amount of food is sufficient provision based on the staple food of the locality, whether it matches the master's sustenance or is above or below it. Providing food of the same type as the master's is recommended (Mustahabb) based on the narration instructing the master to feed them what he eats, while the minimum requirement is established by the general narration concerning provision according to custom (Ma'ruf).