What is the required number of witnesses for establishing adultery (Zina)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Testimonies
Primary text
The consensus among Muslims is that the testimony of fewer than four male witnesses is unacceptable for establishing adultery. This is explicitly established by the Almighty: "Why did they not bring four witnesses to it? And when they have not brought the witnesses, then it is those who, in the sight of Allah, are the liars" (Quran 24:13), among other verses. Furthermore, it is narrated from the Prophet that he said concerning this matter, "Four, or you will receive lashes on your back," and similar reports. It is agreed that witnesses must be Muslim, just, both outwardly and inwardly, regardless of whether the accused is a Muslim or a *Dhimmi* (non-Muslim subject).
Supporting text
The majority of scholars, including Malik, Shafi'i, and the companions of the school of thought (Ahl al-Ra'y), stipulate that witnesses must be free adult males; therefore, the testimony of women or slaves is not accepted. Abu Thawr dissented, accepting the testimony of slaves in this regard. It is narrated from 'Ata and Hammad that the testimony of three men and two women suffices, analogizing the deficiency of one male witness to be compensated by two women, similar to financial matters.