The word al-‘abd reflects the historical institution of slavery. The juristic discussion of preference relates to its period and assumptions about training and obligations; slave status itself is not said to invalidate the prayer. The text explicitly affirms validity if such a person leads.
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Leading Prayer in the Historical Context of Slavery
Congregational Prayer: Its Status, Priority in Leading, and Conduct of the Imam
The word al-‘abd reflects the historical institution of slavery. The juristic discussion of preference relates to its period and assumptions about training and obligations; slave status itself is not said to invalidate the prayer. The text explicitly affirms validity if such a person leads.