Is it permissible in Islamic law to use corporal punishment in upbringing at home and at school? And does the prohibition of this punishment in schools contradict religious teachings, especially given that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, never hit his daughters?
The use of physical punishment in upbringing is neither absolutely permissible nor absolutely forbidden. The fundamental principle is advice, guidance, and gentleness, as stated in Aisha's hadith: "Gentleness is not found in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it disgraces it." This was also the Prophet's (peace be upon him) approach with Anas. However, it may be resorted to as a last resort if other means have been exhausted, and it must be a disciplinary beating, not an act of malice. Evidence for its permissibility includes the Almighty's saying concerning the rebellious wife: ("and strike them"), and the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "And strike them for it (prayer) at ten (years of age)." Thus, beating is not a primary method in upbringing; rather, it is like a last resort treatment.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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