How is the ransom value for the child born to the usurper determined?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Usurpation

Book 22 · Issue 15 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The ransom for the child should be determined by their value on the day of birth, as this is the first time their value can be assessed. A narration from Al-Kharqi suggests ransoming them for their equivalent (in age, description, gender), which Ahmad endorsed. Abu Bakr 'Abd al-Aziz suggested ransoming them for their equivalent value. A third narration from Ahmad, which is the most sound view according to the author, states they are ransomed for their market value, similar to other properties that are not standardized goods (Mithli), as they are guaranteed by their value if destroyed.

Supporting text

There is a difference of opinion on valuation: some suggest ransoming them for their physical equivalent (in age, features, gender), others for their equivalent value, and the most sound view suggests ransoming them for their market value, as animals are not standardized goods.