<b>Guidance from the Hadiths:</b><br> 1) Setting a slave free as expiation for beating him is an aspect of the justice of the Shariah, as it imposes on the offender a procedure that is contrary to his purpose.<br> 2) The Shariah encourages kind treatment to servants and slaves, repelling harm from them, and prohibits torturing or assaulting them.<br> 3) The awe of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) in the sight of his Companions, their keenness on complying with his words and actions, and benefiting themselves with his advice. Thus, it is incumbent upon Muslims to follow their example in tracing the Hadiths of the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) and acting upon them, as they are the way to guidance and salvation in the worldly life and the Hereafter.