What is the meaning of Slave Girl in Islam?

Answer 1

A slave girl in Islam is much like a live in maid but more so like a family member rather than an employee. There are many circumstances that slaves were purchased or obtained [trade that was in existance which was discouraged and put to a stop, and also obtained by way of war.

The slave eats and sleeps under the same conditions as anyone else, is respected and treated well, is responsible for any household chores or asistance that is required. If anyone disrespects a slave they also disrespect the family that slave belongs to etc. The slave has rights much like human rights but has an obligation to serve the family that take care of him or her.

There are many narrations in the Sayings of the Prophet Muhammad to encourage the freeing of slaves and there are many narrations stating all human beings are slaves to God. There also many narrations from the companions to encourage well treatment and freeing of slaves. Also slaves have a right to earn and free themselves.

In Islamic History there have been many former slaves that held many high positions in goverment aswell as even a few Rulers of Islamic countries that were slaves. Which clearly demonstrates the differences between the concept of slaves in islam compared to slavery in the west.