What is the ruling when the agreed-upon condition for a successful shot is 'khawasiq' (an arrow that pierces and remains fixed in the target)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Racing and Archery
Primary text
If the arrow pierces the target and remains fixed in it, it is counted in the archer's favor. If it only scratches the target without piercing it, it is not counted, and the shot counts against him. If the arrow passes clean through the target, it is counted for him because this demonstrates greater force than a 'khasiq' shot, proving superior archery. If the arrow pierces the target but falls short, there are two opinions. The first holds that it is counted for him because it achieved the penetration necessary for a 'khasiq', and the failure to stick is due to another factor, such as a large hole or defect. The second opinion states it is not counted because the condition was 'khawasiq,' which requires the arrow to remain fixed, indicating the archer's skill and intent to meet the agreed-upon condition.
Supporting text
If the arrow fails to remain fixed because it strikes an obstruction behind the target, such as a pebble, stone, bone, or hard ground, there are two views. If it is ruled not counted, the miss is not held against the archer, as the obstruction prevented the required fixing, akin to an obstruction preventing the hit itself. If there is a dispute over the presence of an obstruction, the location of the hole is examined. If the agreed-upon or proven location shows no obstruction, the claim of the denier prevails without an oath. If an obstruction is present, the claimant's position prevails, and no oath is required, as the physical evidence supports the claim. If the location of the hole is unknown but both agree the target was pierced with nothing behind it to stop it, the denier's statement prevails without an oath. If something potentially obstructive was behind it, and the person on whom the hit is claimed asserts the arrow did not strike a spot behind which an obstruction existed, the claimant's word prevails with an oath, as the default is no hit unless the claimant proves otherwise.