What is the liability when the biting itself is permissible (justified)?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Beverages (Intoxicants)

Book 53 · Issue 3 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If the biting is permissible, such as when a person bites another's hand because they cannot otherwise escape harm, then the damages sustained by the aggressor (the biter) are without guarantee. However, the aggressor (the one who initiated the initial harmful action leading to the justified bite) is liable for any damage sustained by the victim. If the bite was justified, any teeth lost by the biter are considered forfeit (nullified).