Question

What is the explanation of the following Hadith?:

 “A man will not be questioned in that which he hit his wife.”

Answer

This Hadith is recorded by Imam Abu Dawud (rahimahullah) in his Sunan, hadith:2140  and is declared authentic (sahih) – Dalilul Falihin, vol. 1, pg. 212.

The commentators state that this Hadith refers to the general people, family members etc asking the husband for the reason why he may have hit his wife.

The wisdom behind this is that the reason could be something shameful/private/embarrassing. One is therefore excused from disclosing the reason to the public.

Having said the above, the commentators are quick to remind the husband that he is answerable to Allah for his deeds, and should therefore not oppress his wife.

‘Allamah Nawawi (rahimahullah) has given the same message by quoting this Hadith in the “Chapter of being aware that Allah ‘Ta’ala is watching” (Babul Muraqabah)

Similarly, Imam Abu Dawud (rahimahullah) first cited the Hadith that labels wife-beaters as “not the best among you”, thereafter he cited the Hadith in question. By doing so he too has subtly indicated to what the commentators have mentioned…

However, if the matter ends up in an Islamic court, the husband will definitely be asked to explain his actions, just as he will be obliged to do on the day of Qiyamah by Allah Ta’ala.

(Dalilul Falihin, vol. 1, pg. 212)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best,

Answered by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar