What kind of slave must be freed when making a general vow (Mutlaq) to free a slave?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Vows
Primary text
A general vow to free a slave requires specifying a slave who is a believer, sound from defects that impair work capability, identical to what is valid for expiation (Kaffarah). This is because a general vow is interpreted according to established practice in Sharia, which is what is obligatory by original decree of Sharia.
Supporting text
One view among the companions of Al-Shafi'i holds that any slave suffices, whether sound or defective, Muslim or unbeliever, because the name 'slave' encompasses all these categories. However, the primary ruling rejects this, asserting that the general vow must conform to Sharia's established practice, which corresponds to the requirement for expiation.