🕵️ Who is ʿAbdu ʾllāh Ibn Saʿd? 📜
Comprehensive Definition
ʿAbdu ʾllāh ibn Saʿd ibn Abi Sarḥ (عبد الله بن سعد بن أبي سرح) was a companion and scribe of the Islamic prophet Muhammad during the early days of Islam. He is primarily known for his controversial role as a secretary who reportedly altered Qurʾānic verses, which led to significant implications in Islamic history.
Etymology and Background
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Name Breakdown:
- ʿAbdu ʾllāh: Meaning “servant of God.”
- Ibn: Meaning “son of.”
- Saʿd: Frequently found name in Arab cultures, generally meaning “happiness” or “good fortune.”
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Birth and Early Life:
- Not much detailed information exists on his early life before he became associated with Prophet Muhammad in Medina.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Different sects of Islam view ʿAbdu ʾllāh ibn Saʿd through varied lenses. He is considered a controversial figure due to the accusations against him of altering divine revelations and his eventual apostasy, followed by a return to Islam.
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Sunni View:
- Generally acknowledge the controversial aspects but also point to his later repentance.
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Shia View:
- Often critical of ʿAbdu ʾllāh ibn Saʿd, skeptical of his later acceptance back into the Muslim community.
Synonyms and Antonyms
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Synonyms:
- Scribe of Prophet Muhammad, Early Muslim Secretary
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Antonyms:
- Faithful Scribe, Infallible Recorder
Related Terms with Definitions
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Scribe (Katib): An individual assigned to write down oral dictations, especially significant for recording religious texts.
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Revelation (Wahyu): Divine guidance or proclamation conveyed by God to a prophet.
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Apostasy (Irtidad): The abandonment of a religious belief, which ʿAbdu ʾllāh was accused of initially before his repentance.
Exciting Facts
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Powerful Verses: ʿAbdu ʾllāh was said to have composed phrases later integrated into the Qurʾān, which caused substantial debate.
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Redemption: Despite his controversial past, ʿAbdu ʾllāh was later forgiven by Prophet Muhammad, reinstating his place in the Islamic community.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Who is more unjust than he who devises against God a lie, or says, ‘I am inspired,’ when he is not inspired at all.”
(Qurʾān, Sūrah 6:93)
“There has certainly come to you a Messenger from among yourselves. Grievous to him is what you suffer; he is concerned over you and to the believers is kind and merciful.”
(Qurʾān, Sūrah 9:128)
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
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“The Life of Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq
- A comprehensive biography of Prophet Muhammad that includes interactions with key figures like ʿAbdu ʾllāh ibn Saʿd.
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“The Qurʾān and Its Biblical Subtext” by Gabriel Said Reynolds
- Explores the intricate connections and controversies around the Qurʾānic text, including the role of scribes.
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“Companions of the Prophet” by Prof. Dr. Heba Raouf Ezzat
- Provides an in-depth look at the lives of several companions, including ʿAbdu ʾllāh ibn Saʿd.
Quizzes
Inspirational Farewell: Delving into Islamic history showcases the multifaceted nature of our human journey through faith, piety, and reflection. Keep seeking wisdom and may your path be lit by understanding. 📖✨
— Imam Yusuf al-Hakim, October 2023
