Now, the historical context of this hadith , as in all...

Now, the historical context of this hadith , as in all ahadith , must be taken into consideration. Over 1,400 years ago, beating was common to punish or discipline a child. Also, it was effective in that environment. Nowadays, the effect of beating a child for punishment or discipline usually does not work. Actually, because of the society, environment, relationships, attitudes, and other means of discipline in today’s world, the beating of a child has negative effects.

For example, the child may be taken away from the parents, the parents may get in trouble with the law, the child may acquire hateful feelings or extreme fear towards the parents, etc. If the means do not work anymore, then does it make sense to use them? When reviewing the Islamic record, it is understood that the beating mentioned in the hadith is only a means, not a goal. Islam does not want parents going around beating their children. Effect and applicability must be taken into account.

Accordingly, modern punishments or means should be employed that will have the desired effects to uphold the wisdom of the hadith . So, when you read the hadith , it would be fair to substitute the word “punish” for the word “beat.” Getting back to the wisdom of the hadith , salat is stressed because it is so powerful. It impacts both one’s spiritual and physical life.

For example, one needs to take time out of the day and prepare herself to perform salat properly, and there are physical restrictions during the salat . Accordingly, physical discipline is mixed with a spiritual experience. This has an important impact on a human being. People that practice salat at an early age are protected from deviation, and even if they deviate, the seed of salat helps them come back.

[^1]: See http://www.brilliant-baby-names.com/SocialEffects.aspx (viewed on March 10, 2010). Previous…