📖 The Fascinating Tale of AL-MĀʾIDAH (المائدة): The Table Spread
Comprehensive Definition: AL-MĀʾIDAH (المائدة) is the fifth chapter of the Qurʾān, focusing on jurisprudence, social rules, and the story of a miraculous table spread sent from heaven in response to a request from Jesus’ disciples.
Etymology: The word “AL-MĀʾIDAH” is derived from the Arabic verb “maad” (ماد), meaning to “be stretched” or “spread out.” Thus, “AL-MĀʾIDAH” essentially translates to “The Table Spread.”
Background: The chapter, believed to have been revealed in Medina, details various legal and social regulations for the early Muslim community. The narrative central to its name recounts an event where followers of Jesus asked if God could send down a heavenly table. God granted this request, as described in a particular verse:
Qurʾān, 5:114:
“O Jesus, son of Mary! Is thy Lord able to send down to us a table?”
Most Islamic narrations suggest a miraculous table covered with various foods descended, serving and healing those present. Some suggest it was sent multiple times, while others view it as a one-time miraculous occurrence.
Cultural Differences and Similarities: AL-MĀʾIDAH touches on cross-religious narratives regarding miracles involving Jesus, paralleled in Christian doctrine concerning the Last Supper and Eucharist. This Sūrah provides an interfaith echo, bridging Christian and Islamic traditions in the context of shared reverence for Jesus as a prophetic figure.
Synonyms:
- Banquet: A large feast, often divine or miraculous in origin.
- Feast: Another term for a celebratory gathering with abundantly provided food.
Antonyms:
- Famine: A severe scarcity of food.
- Fast: A period of abstinence from food.
Related Terms:
- Sūrah (سورة): A chapter of the Qurʾān.
- Hadith (حديث): Narrations and reports concerning the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Miracles (معجزات): Extraordinary events attributed to divine intervention.
Exciting Facts:
- Ecumenical Echo: Some scholars suggest the AL-MĀʾIDAH narrative reflects a theological bridge between Christianity and Islam concerning divine provision and miraculous events.
- Eschatological Elements: AL-MĀʾIDAH discusses the affirmation of the afterlife, moral codes, and community welfare.
Quotations:
“Embark on the journey within the text, where the historical echoes serve as a bridge to present impassioned devotion.” — Amina El-Husseini, Islamic scholar.
References:
- “The Study Qurʾān,” edited by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
- “The History of Qur’anic Text,” by Abu Ammaar Yasir Qadhi.
- “Muhammad: his Life Based on the Earliest Sources,” by Martin Lings.
Suggested Literature for Further Studies:
- “Lights of Revelation and Secrets of Interpretation” by al-Kisai al-Razi.
- “Tafsir al-Qurtubi” by Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-Qurtubi.
- “Risale-i Nur Collection” by Bediuzzaman Said Nursi.
Here are some engaging quizzes to test your understanding:
May your curiosity guide you, and may the knowledge illuminate your path. Seek deeper into the verses; the more we learn, the more enlightened we become.
Inspirational Thought: “The lamp of knowledge should forever be lit to illuminate every shadow and clear every doubt.” — Fatimah El-Haj, October 4, 2023
