What is the ruling regarding the two breasts (*thadyayn*) of a woman?
Chapter on Diyat (Blood Money) for Wounds
Al-Mughni
Book of Blood-Money (Diyyāt)
Primary text
The prescribed indemnity (*diya*) is due for the severance of both of a woman's breasts. There is no known disagreement among scholars regarding this, and the indemnity for one breast is half the full *diya*. This ruling is supported by the consensus of scholars whose views are preserved, including Al-Hasan, Al-Sha'bi, Al-Zuhri, Mak'hul, Qatada, Malik, Al-Thawri, Al-Shafi'i, and the Companions of Al-Ra'y. This is because the breasts possess both aesthetic value and utility, similar to hands and feet.
Supporting text
The indemnity for one breast is half the full amount because for every pair of organs for which full *diya* is mandated, half that amount is due for one, analogous to the two hands. The indemnity for severing both nipples is the full *diya* according to Ahmad, Al-Sha'bi, Al-Nakha'i, and Al-Shafi'i. Malik and Al-Thawri hold that if lactation ceases, the full *diya* is due; otherwise, a discretionary indemnity commensurate with the resulting disfigurement is due. This latter view is also held by Qatada if severance prevents nursing.