Is compensation obligatory if a beardless slave grows a beard, thereby decreasing their value?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Usurpation

Book 22 · Issue 3 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Compensation for the diminished value is obligatory if a beardless slave grows a beard, resulting in a decrease in market value. This is the position held by Al-Shafi'i. The justification is that a change in attribute causing a loss in value necessitates compensation, analogous to the other scenarios mentioned.

Supporting text

Abu Hanifa holds that no compensation is due because the lost characteristic (youthful appearance) is not a proper object of intended restoration, resembling prohibited craftsmanship (*al-sana'ah al-muharramah*).