even if the nail is detached. Some scholars said that if a human nail is detached, slaughtering with it is permissible; however, what is required is to act upon the general wording of the hadith.

Issue: Some scholars held that the small cartilage in the neck, located at the end of the windpipe, must remain attached to the head at the time of slaughter.

Others held that this is not a condition. This was the view preferred by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy on him, and it is the correct view. Thus, if the cut is made behind this cartilage, it is sufficient.

His statement: “If he severs the head in slaughter, the slaughtered animal does not become unlawful.” This is clear, because he has severed what must be severed.

His statement: “The lawful slaughter of game that cannot be captured, wild livestock, and an animal that has fallen into a well, and the like, is accomplished by wounding it anywhere on its body.” The phrase “lawful slaughter” is the subject, while “by wounding it” is the predicate; that is, the lawful slaughter of this type is accomplished by wounding it anywhere on its body.

His statement: “that which cannot be captured of game” means that its lawful slaughter is “by wounding it anywhere on its body.” For example, a person may pursue a gazelle but be unable to catch it, so he throws a knife at it, striking it in the stomach and causing it to die. It is then lawful, even though it was not slaughtered at the neck. But Allah says:

“So fear Allah as much as you are able.” [al-Taghabun: 16]

And I was unable to do more than that.

His statement: “and livestock” refers to camels, cattle, and sheep.