What is the ruling on using Zakat funds to free a slave when the emancipator is set to inherit from that slave?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Walā' (Patronage)
Primary text
If a slave is freed using Zakat funds and the emancipator is set to inherit from him, the inheritance should be directed toward a similar expenditure (i.e., used to free another slave). This is the position held by Imam Ahmad and attributed to Al-Hasan, as well as Ishaq. This principle is extended analogously to freeing slaves via expiation (Kaffarah) or vows (Nidhr) because these obligations are incumbent upon the individual. However, an alternative report from Imam Ahmad states that the loyalty (*wala'*) of the slave freed with Zakat funds belongs to the one whose hands the freeing took place through.
Supporting text
Malik and Al-'Anbari hold that the loyalty belongs to the general treasury of the Muslims (*Bayt al-Mal*). Abu Ubayd states the loyalty belongs to the giver of the charity (the original owner of the Zakat funds). This latter opinion is held by the majority regarding freeing slaves via vows and expiation, supported by the Prophet's saying, "The loyalty belongs to the one who frees," and the precedent of Aisha freeing Barirah after purchasing her under the condition of freeing her.