Are freed slaves (Mawali) considered equals (Kufu) to their former patrons in marriage?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Marriage
Primary text
Freed slaves are considered equals to one another, and similarly, non-Arabs (Ajam) are considered equals among themselves. Regarding a freed slave (Mawla) of Banu Hashim, the view is that a Khurasani may marry her to a Hashimi woman. The statement of the Prophet, peace be upon him, "The Mawali of a people are from themselves," applies specifically to the distribution of charity (Sadaqah), not to marriage eligibility (Nikah). The basis for this is that the freed slave is not equal to the master in matters of religious precedence, such as the right to Khums (one-fifth share), leading the prayer (Imamah), or inherent honor (Sharaf).
Supporting text
There is a narration from Imam Ahmad stating that the freed slave is equal to his patrons based on the Hadith mentioned, and because the Prophet, peace be upon him, married off Zayd and Usama to women of noble Arab lineage (Arabiyyatayn). Furthermore, since the freed slaves of Banu Hashim are excluded with them from receiving charity, they should be considered equals in marriage eligibility. This view is considered incorrect because it implies that freed slaves are equals to Arabs, which invalidates the consideration of lineage (Mansab).