The Misconception of Muhammad’s Consent to Domestic Violence in Islam

Many misconceptions exist about the Islamic teachings on marital relations and domestic violence. It is often believed that Prophet Muhammad allowed or even condoned violence against women, which is a profound misunderstanding of both Islamic beliefs and the teachings in the Quran. This article aims to clarify these misconceptions by examining the relevant verses from the Quran, as interpreted by various Islamic scholars.

Clearing Misconceptions

It is essential to understand that Muhammad did not invent the Quran; rather, it was revealed to him by the angel Gabriel. According to conventional Islamic tradition, the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad in the Arabian peninsula from the 6th to the 7th century CE. Therefore, attributing any form of violence to Prophet Muhammad or the Quran is incorrect.

Around verse 4:34 in the Quran, there exists a misinterpretation. This verse frequently misinterpreted as a source of permission for domestic violence. However, this is a significant misreading of the text. The verse must be understood in its entirety and context to be accurately interpreted.

Context and Interpretation

Verse 4:34 from the Quran mentions that men are responsible for the protection and maintenance of women because of the resources they provide and the differences in strength between them. However, it also provides guidance on how to address matters when a marriage becomes strained. Here is the relevant verse:

“Men are protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has made one of them to excel the other, and because they spend of their means [on them]. Hence, the righteous women are devoutly obedient and guard in honor what Allah has guarded. As to those from whom thou fearest mischief, admonish them and leave them alone in bed, and scourge them. And if they obey thee, seek not a way against them. Lo! Allah is ever evident, great.

Proper Interpretation

Islamic scholars and translators offer different perspectives on this verse, emphasizing the correct interpretation. Here is a collection of various interpretations:

1. Mufti Taqi Usmani

"Men are caretakers of women [because Allah has made some of them excel over others] and because of the property they have spent on them. Righteous women are obedient and guard the property and honor of their husbands in their absence according to the protection given by Allah. If a woman acts rebelliously, first correct her, next sleep apart [from her], and if she does not stop, then beat her. When she obeys, do not seek a way against her. Surely, Allah is most High, most Great."

2. Tafheem-ul-Quran - Abul Ala Maududi

"Men are protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given one more strength than the other and because they support them with what they possess. Therefore, good women are obedient and guard in the husbands’ absence that which Allah has guarded. If one fears from a woman’s rebellion, admonish her first, then separate from her or avoid her, and then beat her. If she obeys, do not seek against her further. Allah is exhalted, great."

3. English Translation Yusuf Ali

"Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah hath made the one of them to excel the others, and because they spend out of their means for the support of women. Therefore, the righteous women are devout and obedient, and guard in

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of their husbands in their absence, as Allah Hath ordained, and their disobedient, admonish them, and if they fail to do good, separate from them, except for their fault, and seek for themselves [protection] against them, but if they do good, seek not against them any bad way: for Allah is ever Exalted, Great."

4. Marmaduke Piethall

"Men are in charge of women because Allah has made one of them superior to the other and because they spend in their support from their possessions. Therefore, good women are obedient, and pursue

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of what Allah has pursued. If thou fear from a woman infidelity, advise her, then>") by]) him and... except that separate from her, or (admonish) her and if (the ill-conduct) she stops, hold her account no evil. Lo! Allah is ever above woman and man exalted ISP."

Conclusion

The Quran, when properly understood, does not condone or suggest domestic violence. Rather, it provides guidelines for resolving conflicts and maintaining peace in a marriage. The key message is the importance of mutual respect, communication, and compassion. If a woman is mistreated, the Quran provides a structured approach to address the issue, starting from gentle advice and progressing to more severe but non-violent measures. Ultimately, the Quran calls upon all believers, men and women, to act with kindness and fairness.

It is crucial for believers to seek correct understanding of the Quran and its teachings. Misinterpretations can lead to harmful practices and beliefs. Understanding the true teachings of Islam can help prevent misunderstandings and promote a more inclusive and peaceful society.

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