AT-TAḤRĪM (التحريم): “The Prohibition” 📜
Comprehensive Definition
AT-TAḤRĪM (التحريم) translates to “The Prohibition” and refers to the 66th chapter (Sūrah) in the Qurʾān. This Sūrah addresses a personal incident in the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) relating to the prohibition of lawful things to please his wives, particularly in the context of his interaction with his wife Ḥafṣah and the Coptic slave-girl Māriyah.
Etymology
The Arabic root word “حَرَمَ” (ḥarama) means “to forbid” or “to prohibit,” giving rise to the term “التحريم” (at-taḥrīm) meaning “the prohibition.”
Background
Sūrah AT-TAḤRĪM deals with a situation where Prophet Muhammad sought to please his wives by making personal restrictions. Historians believe the verses were revealed to address this situation, emphasizing that what is made lawful by Allah should not be prohibited to oneself, even out of a desire to please others.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Across different cultures, the concept of prohibiting and permitting varies significantly, often influenced by religious doctrines. Although specific to Islamic teachings, the underlying theme of balancing personal obligations and duties towards family resonates similarly in various traditions.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
- Prohibition (حظر)
- Forbiddance (منع)
- Restriction (قيد)
Antonyms
- Permission (إذن)
- Allowance (سماح)
- Freedom (حرية)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Halal (حلال): Things or actions that are permissible according to Islam.
- Haram (حرام): Things or actions that are forbidden in Islam.
- Fatwa (فتوى): A ruling on a point of Islamic law given by a recognized authority.
- Nikah (نكاح): Islamic marriage contract.
Exciting Facts
- AT-TAḤRĪM is one of the shorter Sūrahs - comprising only 12 verses, yet it holds significant insight into personal ethics and marital relations within Islamic teachings.
- Women of the Prophet - This chapter provides specific guidance referring to the wives of the Prophet Muhammad, emphasizing respect for lawful pleasures and family dynamics.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Why, O Prophet! dost thou forbid that which God hath made lawful to thee, from a desire to please thy wives?” - The Qur’an, Surah 66:1
The renowned Islamic scholar, Maulana Abul Ala Maududi, explains: “This explains the principles of lawful and unlawful in our religion, illustrating that personal commitments should align with divine law rather than seeking comfort in human relations.”
Suggested Literature for Further Studies
- Tafsir Ibn Kathir - A detailed exegesis on the Qur’an providing contextual details for Sūrah AT-TAḤRĪM.
- The Meaning of the Qur’an by Syed Abul Ala Maududi - Offers comprehensive interpretation and insights.
- Queens of Islam: The Untold Stories by Meriam Al-Yousuf - Delves into the lives of the Prophet’s wives providing better understanding.
Thought-Provoking Farewell
May the insights into AT-TAḤRĪM offer profound understanding and inspire further exploration into the harmony between divine commandments and personal life. Seeking knowledge in compassion helps bridge the divine and worldly presence, ensuring a balanced life in Islam.
With wisdom and peace,
Malik Al-Hakim
