What disciplinary actions are permissible against a slave or maidservant who commits an offense?
Chapter on Maintenance of Slaves
Al-Mughni
Book of Maintenance (Nafaqāt)
Primary text
The master has the right to discipline his male or female slave for offenses committed, employing admonishment (tawbīkh) and light striking, similar to the discipline used for one's child or a defiant wife. The justification for discipline is the commission of an offense by the slave.
Supporting text
It is prohibited for the master to strike the slave without a preceding offense or to administer a severe beating, even if an offense occurred. Furthermore, slapping the face is forbidden. Evidence against striking the face is found in the report where the Prophet, peace be upon him, commanded the emancipation of a maidservant whose master slapped her, due to an incident involving Ibn Muqrin al-Muzani and six others.