because, the moment a person acquires ownership of his father, the father is released automatically; he does not have to declare, “I set him free.” The same ruling applies if he were to come into possession of his mother: she is freed the instant the ownership is established, without any need for a verbal declaration.

4/315 — On his authority: The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him) said, “Allah, Exalted and Majestic, created all creatures, and when He had finished with them, the womb (kinship) stood up and said, ‘Here I am, seeking refuge with You from being cut off.’ He replied, ‘Yes indeed—are you not pleased that I maintain ties with whoever maintains you, and cut off whoever cuts you off?’ She said, ‘Certainly.’ He said, ‘That is granted to you.’” The Messenger of Allah then added, “Recite, if you wish: ‘So would you, perhaps, if you turned away, cause corruption in the land and sever your ties of kinship? Those are the ones whom Allah has cursed, making them deaf and blinding their sight’ (Muhammad 22–23).” Agreed upon.

In another version recorded by al-Bukhari: Allah the Exalted said, “Whoever keeps you, I keep him; and whoever cuts you off, I cut him off.”

5/316 — Also on his authority, may Allah be pleased with him: A man came to the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him) and asked, “Messenger of Allah, who among people is most deserving of my good companionship?” He replied, “Your mother.” The man asked, “Then who?” He said, “Your mother.” He asked again, “Then who?” He said, “Your mother.” He said, “Then who?” He said, “Your father.” Agreed upon.