Section

It is forbidden to carry out qiṣāṣ unless the ruler1—or his deputy—is present; nevertheless, if it is done, the sentence takes legal effect.

Likewise, it is impermissible to kill the offender with anything other than the sword, or to amputate a limb with anything other than a knife, lest excess2 be committed.

If, however, the victim’s heir attacks the offender, assuming he has killed him when he has not, and the offender’s family treats him until he recovers, the heir may—should he so wish—pay the diya (blood money) for the injury he caused and then execute him; otherwise, he must let him go.