What is the ruling on a female slave (or one in the status of a female slave) praying uncovered if she achieves freedom during the prayer?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
If a female slave becomes free during her prayer while her head is uncovered, she must cover herself if she can do so immediately without excessive time or effort. If this is possible, she covers herself, builds upon the preceding parts of the prayer, and the prayer remains valid. This is analogous to the people of Quba' turning towards the new Qibla during prayer and continuing. If covering requires significant effort or time, the prayer is invalidated because covering is a prerequisite when able, and performing excessive action within the prayer nullifies it. The determination of what constitutes 'little' versus 'much' effort is based on customary practice, not fixed measures like steps.
Supporting text
If she waited for someone to hand her a covering, there are two possibilities: her prayer is void, or it is valid because the waiting is considered a single instance of delay. The opinion favoring invalidation is preferred because the delay meant she continued in a state of uncovered private parts despite having the ability to cover herself. If she completed the prayer without knowing she became free, the prayer is invalid due to praying uncovered while ignorant of the obligation to cover. If she became free but found no covering, her prayer is valid, as she is then like a naturally free woman unable to cover.