A man has a slave of high value, and another man has multiple slaves whose total value equals that of the first man's slave. Which is better: freeing the single slave or freeing the multiple slaves?

The questioner : A man has a slave of high value due to his noble character, and another man has multiple slaves whose total value equals that of this noble slave. Is it better to free the noble slave or to free the multiple slaves?

The Shaykh : There is a difference of opinion on this. Some hold that freeing the noble slave is better, because the soul is more attached to him, and if a person frees him for the sake of Allah while his soul is attached to him, that is evidence that good is more beloved to him. Others say that freeing multiple slaves is better, because freeing two slaves is better than freeing one; in that case, you are freeing two necks. This also depends on the outcome. The outcome of freeing these two slaves may be more complete, for example, if these two slaves are being tortured by their master, then purchasing and freeing them is better. The situation may be the opposite, however, if this noble man is a scribe, a craftsman, an engineer, a pilot, or the like. In that case, it is better to free him. The important point is that in matters of preference, the meanings and attributes that make one better than the other must be considered.

The questioner : So what do we say? That the one to whom the soul is more attached is the better one to free? Meaning, if the soul is attached to this slave, then freeing this slave is better?

The Shaykh : Yes, for you personally, it is better. But there may be consideration for the two slaves being freed. Or yes, for you personally, there is no doubt that the one to whom your soul is attached, if you spend on him for the sake of Allah, is stronger evidence that you love good.