📚 Faraid: Definition, Etymology, and Background§
Faraid (plural of fard or farḍ in Arabic: فرائض, Sing. فَرْض) refers to the obligatory duties commanded by Allah in Islam. These essential obligations are crucial for practicing Muslims and cover both ritualistic and legal aspects. Here is a deeper look into the concept:
Definition§
- Ritual Duties: Faraid encompasses the five daily prayers (Salah), giving alms (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), and the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj).
- Inheritance Laws: It also refers to the specific, codified shares of inheritances among heirs as detailed in the Quran.
- Sufi Practices: Within Sufi orders, Faraid can include specific rituals like meditation, contemplation, movement, singing, recitation, prayer, repetition, music, and dance.
Etymology§
The term “Faraid” derives from the Arabic root word “ف-ر-ض” (f-r-ḍ), meaning to impose an obligation or to prescribe. This etymological root emphasizes the concept of duties mandated by divine command.
Historical Facts and Dates§
- The concept of Faraid in terms of prayers and fasting originated from revelations received by the Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century.
- The detailed inheritance laws were revealed in stages and are enumerated in Surahs such as An-Nisa (4:11-12, 4:176).
Cultural Differences and Similarities§
- Synonyms: Farā’iḍ, Fard (Singular)
- Antonyms: Nafl (non-obligatory or supererogatory acts), Mandub (recommended acts), Makruh (discouraged acts)
- Related Terms with Definitions:
- Fard al-Ayn: Obligations that each individual Muslim must fulfill (e.g., fasting, daily prayers).
- Fard al-Kifayah: Communal obligations that if fulfilled by some, others are absolved (e.g., positions in jihad, conducting funerals).
Exciting Facts§
- The five pillars of Islam collectively form the core of Faraid that every Muslim is required to observe.
- Faraid in the context of inheritance ensures equitable distribution of assets amongst heirs, reflecting the Quranic mandate against injustice and exploitation.
Quotations from Notable Writers§
“The prescribed roles and duties in Islam are not but pathways leading to divine proximity.” - Al-Ghazali
Additional Translations§
- Arabic: فرائض (Faraid)
- Urdu: فرائض
- Turkish: Fariz
- Persian: واجبات (Wajebat)
- Bengali: ফারাইদ (Faraid)
Suggest Literature and Sources for Further Studies and Inspiration§
- “Reclaim Your Heart” by Yasmin Mogahed
- “In the Footsteps of the Prophet: Lessons from the Life of Muhammad” by Tariq Ramadan
- “The Study Quran” - A new translation and commentary by Seyyed Hossein Nasr and team
- Classical Islamic Jurisprudence texts by Imam Al-Shafi’i and Imam Malik.
“Fulfilling one’s Faraid is not merely an act of obedience, but a path to attain the essence of faith and harmony in life.” - Ibrahim Al-Hakim, 2023.
اغنام.
