Is *Istibra'* obligatory upon a master selling his female slave whom he does not sexually possess?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Waiting Periods ('Iddah)
Primary text
If the master does not have sexual intercourse with his female slave, *Istibra'* is not obligatory, but it is recommended to ascertain her freedom from pregnancy, which is safer for the buyer and prevents dispute. Ahmad preferred that a woman selling her slave not sell her until she performs *Istibra'* by one menstrual cycle for her protection.
Supporting text
It is obligatory if the master sexually possesses her and she is still capable of conceiving, according to An-Nakh'i and Ath-Thawri. However, a secondary narration from Ahmad, the opinion of Abu Hanifa, Malik, and Ash-Shafi'i holds that it is not obligatory because Ibn Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf sold a slave woman he possessed without *Istibra'* first.