What is the ruling on a game in which two teams wear shields and use weapons that fire small balls to hit opponents, knowing that the balls may cause pain and scratches? Is this considered part of a Muslim's preparation, or is it impermissible due to the pain and targeting of a Muslim?

The general principle, according to the majority of scholars, is the permissibility of competitions that do not involve compensation. Some specific cases are an exception to this. However, the Hanafis stipulate that the permissibility of a race is conditioned upon it being one of only four types: involving hooves (horses, etc.), paws/pads (camels, etc.), arrows/blades (archery/fencing), or feet (running). The majority of scholars cite as evidence the Prophet's (peace be upon him) race with Aisha, his race with Salama ibn al-Akwa', his wrestling with Rukana, and his approval of lifting a stone to determine the strongest.

If the game does not cause apparent harm to either party (such as breaking a limb), and any pain involved is minor and usual, then there is no harm in it. However, if it involves apparent harm, then it is forbidden, because inflicting harm upon oneself or others is prohibited in Islamic law.