What about Beating Women in the Quran?

The verse in the Quran that is often cited in discussions about beating women is Surah 4:34. This verse states that men are the protectors and maintainers of women and that they have been given authority over them. The verse then goes on to say that if a woman is disobedient or rebellious or shows aversion or physical repulsion, a husband may admonish her, abandon her in bed, or, in extreme cases, discipline her.

According to verse (4:34) the husband should try his best to change his wife’s rebellious attitude, starting with the mildest solutions and progressing to stricter solutions. First, He should try admonition, gentle persuasion, and reasoning, using kind words. If this remedy fails and the wife persists, the husband may have recourse to the second measure and sleep apart from her in the same bed. If this remedy also proves futile and the wife keeps violating marital obligations, it is permissible for him to strike her lightly with his hand, avoiding her face and other sensitive areas, and should leave no mark.

It is important to note that this verse is not advocating the use of physical violence. Rather, it emphasizes the importance of discipline and accountability in a marital relationship. It also places certain restrictions on the use of such discipline. A husband is not allowed to strike his wife with force or cause her any harm, and he must also always treat her with respect and kindness.