Although I try not to stray too far from communications and technology in this blog, I couldn’t help passing on these words of wisdom from Saudi author and cleric, "Dr." Muhammad Al-'Arifi on the proper methods and techniques on how to beat your children, animals and especially your wife.
According to Al-‘Arifi, “Beating in the face is forbidden, even when it comes to animals," he explained. "Even if you want your camel or donkey to start walking, you are not allowed to beat it in the face. If this is true for animals, it is all the more true when it comes to humans. So beatings should be light and not in the face."
As I read this article on Fox News, I kept waiting for a punch line like April Fools. Sadly there was none.
PS: I have had many comments on this post and the most common theme seems to be it is incredible that this sort of talk and activity is allowed in this day and age. I really think the UN Human Rights Comission should be investigating this incident and put an end to this sort of talk.
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If you watch the video clip that the Fox article links to, you will see that the concept of "beating" that is advocated is not really "beating." He says that "scholars [say] he should beat her with a toothpick," and then he goes on to say, "Check out how gentle the toothpick used for beating is. This shows you that the purpose it not to inflict pain."
In short, this is a religious scholar grappling with a difficult verse from scripture, a verse that clearly makes many Muslims uncomfortable, and the conclusion that he (like most scholars) draws is that the "beating" of the verse is basically symbolic. That doesn't mean that such verses aren't used by some men to justify domestic violence, but the reality of how religious scholars discuss wife 'beating' in Saudi Arabia is considerably more subtle than Fox reports it.
Its interesting to read ideas, and observations from someone else's point of views makes you think more.
I am not Saudi, muslim or any other excuse for a woman beater. However, I do believe that it should be allowed even though I don't do it. There seems to be an educational factor involved that can only be taught or learned in a universal language. People and pets unfortunately play a dominance game to earn respect amongst the ranks. We are all animals and should not be considered any better than one another. Men have lost their place in history as a provider and head of household. They have lost their importance, respect and values that have held famillies together for millions of years. I believe it is important for all members of a family to take their rightful place with pride and dignity. With love comes discipline and with discipline comes strength as a family unit.