Slavery was a universal institution during the Prophet’s time, but Islam introduced reforms to phase it out. The Quran encouraged freeing slaves as a virtuous act:

• “...But whoever cannot find [the means to do so] – then a fast for two months consecutively before they touch one another. And for those who find this difficult, it is the feeding of sixty needy people.” (Surah Al-Mujadila, 58:3)

The Prophet ﷺ set a powerful example by freeing slaves and encouraging others to do the same. Bilal ibn Rabah, a freed slave, became one of the most respected companions in Islamic history and the first muezzin. The Quran also demanded fair treatment:

• “...What your right hands possess – indeed, Allah is ever an Observer over them.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:36)

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