📖 Definition and Meaning
Ibn Masud, Abdallah - Abdallah Ibn Masud (d. ca. 652 CE) was a prominent Companion of Prophet Muhammad and an early convert to Islam. Renowned for his deep knowledge of the Quran and Hadith, he served in various administrative and diplomatic capacities under the caliphs Umar and Uthman before rupturing ties with the latter. His Quranic readings, which differ slightly from the standard Uthmanic text, and his numerous hadith transmissions via the scholars of Kufa, have left a signifcant impact on Islamic scholarship.
Etymology and Background
The name “Ibn Masud” translates directly to “Son of Masud,” demonstrating the common Arabic naming tradition of referencing one’s father. “Abdallah” means “Servant of Allah.” Abdallah Ibn Masud was born in Mecca to humble Bedouin origins, distinguishing his early followers down-to-earth background.
Historical Facts and Dates
- Early Life: Born in Mecca and converted to Islam in the early years of Prophet Muhammad’s mission.
- Contributions: Known for his accurate and authentic recitations of the Quran and comprehensive knowledge of Hadith.
- Caliphal Service: Held significant roles under the caliphs Umar and Uthman before ultimately clashing with Uthman over certain administrative and textual favors in 652 CE.
- Settlement in Kufa: Settled in Kufa, where his teachings continued to influence local scholars and Islamic legal practices.
Cultural Context
- Integration to Politics and Religion: Unlike many Companions who held both politico-religious roles seamlessly, Ibn Masud’s later disputes illustrate the early Islamic political entanglements and diversity in legal/theological approaches.
- Quranic and Hadith Transmission: His readings and hadith narrations emphasized authenticity and scholarly rigor, thus fostering a culture of diligent religious education distinctively in Kufa.
Synonyms & Antonyms
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Synonyms:
- Qāri’ (Quran reciter)
- Muhaddith (Hadith scholar)
- Aṣḥāb (Companion)
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Antonyms:
- Munāfiq (Hypocrite)
- Kāfir (Non-believer)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Sahaba: The companions of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Kufa: A city in present-day Iraq that became a major center of Islamic thought.
- Hadith: Accounts or sayings of Prophet Muhammad.
- Uthmanic Text: The standardized version of the Quran compiled under Caliph Uthman.
Exciting Facts
- Memorization Skills: Witnesses recounted his keen ability to memorize the Quran and hadith accurately, noting he was among the earliest ‘Hāfiẓ’ (a term for those who have completely memorized the Quran).
- Beat-down: Despite his influential stature, Ibn Masud’s beginnings were so humble that early sources narrate tales of his personage being ignored by Qurayshi aristocrats.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “In the midst of the glorious luminaries, there towers among the Sahābah the lighthouse of Ibn Mas’ud, whose ignited knowledge and soft-spoken wisdom illuminated the hallways of early Islam.” – Ali Al-Said
Suggested Literature
- “The Early Development of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Ahmad Hassan
- “Studies in Early Hadith Literature” by Muhammad Mustafa Azami
- “Religion and Politics Under the Early ʻAbbāsids” by Patricia Crone
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
As we delve into the life of Abdallah Ibn Masud, let us be inspired by his unparalleled dedication, tenacity in preserving the faith, and the luminous legacy of knowledge he transmitted. His story beckons us to pursue our own paths with a kindred spirit of rigor and unyielding commitment.
Thank you for engaging in this exploration of a foundational figure in early Islamic history. May his legacy guide us toward a pursuit of knowledge and truth.
