Merit of Manumission in Islam — Among the Greatest Acts of Piety

Verse: "But righteousness is — believing in Allah, the Last Day, angels, the Book, and the prophets — and giving wealth despite loving it to relatives, orphans, the needy, the wayfarer, those who ask, and for freeing slaves." (2:177)

Slaves (riqab) in the Quran: Mentioned in multiple contexts: piety (here), oath expiation (5:89), zihar expiation (58:3), accidental killing expiation (4:92).

Islam's approach: Gradual systematic restriction — not sudden abolition. Multiple emancipation gates, right to purchase freedom (mukatabah), social bond after emancipation (wala').

Merit: The Prophet said: "Whoever frees a Muslim slave — Allah frees every limb of his from the Fire."