Comprehensive Definition
Banu Qurayza (بنو قريظة) - A Jewish tribe in Yathrib (now Medina) who initially entered into an alliance with the Islamic community led by the Prophet Muhammad. This alliance came under strain during the Battle of the Trench in 627 CE, leading to their fateful conflict with the Muslims.
Etymology
The term “Banu” (بنو) is an Arabic word meaning “sons,” denoting a tribal lineage. “Qurayza” (قريظة) is the name of the tribe, potentially derived from a notable ancestor or characteristic.
Background and Historical Facts
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Time Period and Context: The incident involving Banu Qurayza occurred in 627 CE, during a particularly turbulent phase of the Prophet Muhammad’s establishment of the Islamic community in Medina. They were part of a triad of major Jewish tribes in Medina, the others being Banu Nadir and Banu Qaynuqa.
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Earlier Relations: Initially, they entered into an alliance with Prophet Muhammad as part of the Constitution of Medina, promising mutual protection and support.
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The Siege of Medina: During the Battle of the Trench (Ghazwat al-Khandaq), an unprecedented multi-clan coalition, including the Quraysh of Mecca, besieged Medina. The Banu Qurayza allegedly negotiated with the attackers, contravening their pact with the Muslims.
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Climactic Confrontation: Once the larger coalition forces retreated, the Muslims turned their attention to Banu Qurayza. After a siege, their surrender was negotiated.
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Judgment by Sād ibn Mu’adh: Sād ibn Mu’adh, a leading figure from the companion Aus tribe, pronounced judgment based on their own Torah laws, leading to the execution of the tribe’s men and the enslavement of women and children.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Cultural Interaction: The Banu Qurayza incident illustrates the complex interactions and frequent alliances and conflicts between different faith communities in Medina.
- Conflict Consequences: Significantly affected inter-tribal and inter-religious dynamics in Medina, influencing Islamic jurisprudence regarding treachery and wartime conduct.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Banu Quraihığ, Banū Qurayẓah (Translitterated alternatives)
- Antonyms: Banu Aws and Banu Khazraj (Allied tribes to Muslims)
Related Terms
- Battle of the Trench (غزوة الخندق): Siege where the initial conflict with Banu Qurayza emerged.
- Sād ibn Mu’adh (سعد بن معاذ): The companion who passed judgment on the Banu Qurayza.
Exciting Facts
- Constitution of Medina: One of the earliest known written constitutions, which included Banu Qurayza and outlined mutual defense pacts among diverse communities.
Quotations
- Sir William Muir: “The Banu Qurayza received the same consequences from him which were accorded to Arabian tribes who betrayed their allies. Their fate became a cautionary tale for treason in Islam.”
Suggested Literature
- “The Life of Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq
- “The Monumental Bravery: Battles of Muhammad” by W. Montgomery Watt
- “The Covenants of the Prophet Muhammad with the Christians of the World” by John Andrew Morrow
Farewell
“History layers rich complexity – may you unravel and understand the alliances, promises, and conflicts that helped shape the early Islamic world. Engage with these chapters of human history wisely and reflect profoundly.”
Mohammad Ibn Rumi, October 2023
