Beating is not a means of education, but rather it is prohibited by God Almighty. Here we will talk about To view through the lens of Islamic law, which is resorted to in the narrowest of limits and with strict legal controls. Before we talk about the concept of beating in Islam, we would like to say that a father or teacher who can only control his children or students through beating is a failed parent and teacher.
To view through the lens of Islamic law
I know, may God have mercy on us, that beating is not a proper method of education. Rather, it is one of the worst methods resorted to by the weak who cannot raise their children properly. It is one of the most heinous crimes.
In Islam, the concept of beating refers to non-brutal beating, which does not harm the body or affect the psyche of children. Beating has been mentioned in the case of beating one’s wife, and it is considered the last resort.
In fact, beating with a miswak, which is a piece of wood used for cleaning teeth, is allowed in Islam, but it is not considered a beating in the true sense. It is just a form of discipline. It is more appropriate to follow modern educational methods with children.
The guidelines for beating in Islam
- The whip should not be longer than the arm.
- the hitter should not raise his arm to the point where his armpit is visible.
- there should be no marks or signs on the body.
- the number of strikes should not exceed 10 unless within the limits of God.
- the hitter should refrain from insulting, cursing, or swearing while striking.
- he should not strike while in a state of anger to avoid losing control.
- and he should not strike sensitive areas such as the face or head.
- but rather use the force of the stick, not the force of the arm.
In conclusion, dear father and respected teacher, you should know, may God have mercy on us, that beating is a method of discipline and correction, not revenge. The purpose of beating is to improve behavior, not to humiliate or harm. This is what is stated in the Hanafi school of Islamic law. Anything beyond that is unjust and a heinous crime.
