Is retaliation applicable for only a portion of a tooth?
Chapter on Retaliation (Qawad)
Al-Mughni
Book of Wounds
Primary text
Retaliation (*qisas*) is valid for a portion of a tooth. This is established because the Prophet, peace be upon him, ordered retaliation when Ruba'i broke a slave girl's tooth. Furthermore, what is subject to retaliation in its entirety is also subject to it in part, provided it is feasible, similar to the ear. Therefore, portions must be repaid with equivalent portions, such as half for half or a third for a third. This must not be determined by surface area measurement to prevent taking the entire assailant's tooth for only a portion of the victim's tooth.
Supporting text
Retaliation for a portion of a tooth must be executed using a file (*mabrad*) to ensure that no excess is taken. If extraction were used, there is fear that the tooth might fracture, be completely removed, or break outside the intended area of retaliation. Retaliation is not carried out until experts confirm that the extraction can be done without causing the tooth to loosen or become blackened, as the mere apprehension of taking an excess prevents retaliation in limbs, similar to severing a hand at a point other than a joint.