AT-TAT̤FĪF (التطفيف) – An In-Depth Study
Definition
AT-TAT̤FĪF (التطفيف)
Term: AT-TAT̤FĪF
Meaning: Giving short measure or adulterating goods.
Context: The term originates from the title of the 83rd Surah of the Qur’an, which emphatically condemns those who cheat in weighing and measuring, whilst perpetuating to unfair trading practices and exploitation for personal gain.
Etymology
Root: Derived from the Arabic root “ط ف ف” (Ṭ-F-F), indicating “to slight” or “to weigh less.”
Usage in Qur’an: The Surah opens a discourse on the unethical behavior regarding scales and measurements, pivotal for societal trust and economic justice.
Background
Surah Al-Mutaffifin, commencing with AT-TAT̤FĪF, invokes severe admonitions for traders who give short measure or weight, urging Muslims to maintain equity in their transactions. This Surah is historically pinpointed amidst the ethical collapse in Meccan trade practices, shedding light both before and during Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ (Peace Be Upon Him) revelations.
Cultural Dimensions: Madīnah vs. Meccan Revelations
- Madīnah Focus: Some scholars infer specific allusions to Madinan social commerce intricacies, arguing that at least fragments of The Surah might be a post-Hijra revelation considering settled agricultural economic models.
- Meccan Influence: Nonetheless, overwhelming scholarly consensus sees The Surah likely as emanating from the Meccan period, its message befitting the wealthier yet morally diminished Makkan traders.
Synonyms
- “Ghish (غش)” – Fraud
- “Dhulm (ظلم)” – Injustice
- “Ghadr (غدر)” – Treachery
Antonyms
- “Adl (عدل)” – Justice
- “Sidq (صدق)” – Truthfulness
- “Amanah (أمانة)” – Trustworthiness
Related Terms with Definitions
- Al-Hisāb (الحساب): The Day of Judgement, extensively addressed in the Surah itself, focusing on rectitude and retribution for all actions.
- Al-Amānah (الأمانة): The concept of trust and integrity in all affairs.
- Tārīkh (تاريخ): History, especially in narrating the context of revelations.
Interesting Facts
- Ascendancy Change: The Surah dramatically underscores the reversal of roles. Those wronged yet patient believers will ascend a status, and corrupt affluent traders will face divine retribution.
- Integration into Daily Life: This concept isn’t confined to antiquated dealings; it suggests modern application in business ethics and sustainability in commodities practices.
Inspirational Quotation
“Be not like the mutaffifìn!*” - [Surah Al-Mutaffifin 83:1]
Suggested Scholarly Readings
- “The Ethical Code of Trade in Early Islam” by Ahmed Ibn Rashid
- “Revelations and Justice: Chronicling the Meccan Years” by Fatima Siddiqui
- “Islamic Commerce: Allah as the Best of Planners” by Maulana Khalil Qadri
Insightful Exams for Reflection
Farewell Thought
Propelling beyond documented text, AT-TAT̤FĪF (التطفيف) immerses us as learners in a prolific ethical framework. It marks a universal resonance; our choices accrued daily construct deliberate identities reflecting moral or immoral markets—concepts that beleaguer and enlighten humanity continually.
Daisies of peace ⛅ 2023-10
—Layla Al-Karim
