and Satan may cause him to bring it down upon his companion, killing him. Rather, it should be made of the same material as a staff, wood, or something similar.

Does this include what is known as boxing? No. First, because boxing involves striking the face in particular, and this is prohibited. Second, because it is dangerous: if a boxer is struck in a fatal spot, he may die. But if a person merely wishes to train, without striking the face, so that he can use it to fight the enemy—as in karate—then they say that it is highly beneficial for a person in attacking the enemy and escaping from him. Competition in this would therefore be permissible. Indeed, if warfare among people were to take this form, it could be said that it falls under the things for which a prize is permissible.

“And competition for a prize is not valid except in camels, horses, and arrows.” ...............

His statement, “And competition for a prize is not valid,” means that a competition for a prize is not valid, whether the prize is property in kind, cash, or a benefit.

His statement, “except in camels, horses, and arrows,” is based on the saying of the Prophet, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him: “There is no prize except in a contest involving arrows, camels, or horses.” (1)

“There is no prize,” meaning: no compensation except in these three. It is only permitted in these three because of the public benefit they serve in fighting in Allah’s cause;