A Family Therapist in Saudi has released a video stating the ‘correct way’ for a Muslim to ‘Discipline their wives’. He also added that toothpick and handkerchiefs were the advised objects of discipline.
The Saudi Family therapist, Khaled Al-Saqaby in the video described the topic as a thorny one adding that ‘Allah willing, we will cross this bridge safely’.
The therapist in the video urged men to avoid physical abuse of their wives adding that if discipline was ever necessary, they should pursue the three-course of action which includes: Talking to them, followed by forsaking them in bed and if both fail to give desired changes, men are allowed to beat their wives as a final resort.
He added that wives wish for a life of equality with their husbands, which is a very grave problem.
In the video, he said: “I am aware that this issue is a thorny one which contains many hazards, but Allah willing we will cross this bridge safely.
“I believe the problem arises when husbands do not understand how to deal with disobedience. Some women disobey their husbands and make mistakes with them, and their husbands think this is due to inadequate treatment [of disobedience].”
He further added that: “The first step is to remind her of your rights and of her duties according to Allah. Then comes the second step – forsaking her in bed.
“Here some husbands make mistakes which might exacerbate the problem.”
He however noted that such men should continue to share their beds with their wives but as a form of discipline, turn their backs to them.
He noted that women cause problems in some instances in order to provoke their husbands, adding that beating which is the last resort should only be done as a form of instilling discipline and not to vent anger.
“As a woman once told me, this is the most ingenious way to discipline a wife. If the husband leaves the room it is easier for her than if he remains but turns his back to her or if he sleeps on the floor or vice versa.”
Further to this he added that beating should be done with a sewak tooth stick or a handkerchief.