Is there a legal impediment to a slave marrying a noblewoman?

Question:
Is there a legal impediment to a slave not marrying a noblewoman?

Answer:
This depends on whether it leads to fitnah (trial, discord or temptation) and harm. If it results in harm and division among the people, then averting harm takes precedence over seeking benefit, both rationally and according to the Shari'ah, so there is no objection. However, if it leads to a concern, there is no doubt that averting harm takes precedence over seeking benefit, even if the act is permissible. If it leads to fitnah, harm, or killing, then it must be avoided, and one should not stir up fitnah by saying, "This is permissible, and we are not responsible for the fitnah." No, this is not permissible; do you not know that it stirs up fitnah? Yes.