Is Wing Chun permissible?

The sport of "Wing Chun" is one of the Chinese martial arts. The ruling on this sport, and other martial arts, depends on how it is practiced:

1. If it is practiced in a way that causes harm to the opponent and directly targets the face and head: It is impermissible (haram) in Sharia, because it violates the religious texts that prohibit harming oneself and others, such as the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Do not strike the face," and his saying: "There should be no harm nor reciprocating harm." Furthermore, the Islamic Fiqh Council has issued a fatwa prohibiting boxing and freestyle wrestling due to the severe harm that can result from them.

2. If the necessary precautions are taken, and no direct harm is inflicted upon the opponent, and the face is not intentionally harmed: It is permissible, especially if it is for training purposes for legitimate aims such as strengthening the body and acquiring skill, or for training army and security forces. This is provided that the training involves special equipment (like wooden or leather pieces), or with an imaginary opponent, or by directing strikes to other parts of the body that are protected by guards.