Is a slave with one eye (A'war) valid for expiation by freeing?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Zihar
Primary text
A slave with one eye is valid according to all opinions discussed here. The primary reason is that one eye does not prevent the completion of legal requirements or the transfer of the slave's benefits, nor does it severely impede labor. It is analogous to cutting one ear. It differs from blindness, which severely impedes labor and prevents many trades. It also differs from the loss of one hand or one leg, as limited utility remains in the latter, whereas the remaining eye suffices to achieve what two eyes achieve for general purpose realization.
Supporting text
Abu Bakr held an alternative opinion that one-eyed slaves are invalid because this defect prevents sacrifice (Udhiyah) and penalty payment (Hady), similar to blindness. However, the sound position is that defects that prevent Udhiyah/Hady, such as loss of the eye or limb, are not the same standard as those preventing freedom for expiation, where only impediments to labor are considered.