Definition: G͟HULŪL (غلول) refers to the act of defrauding, cheating, or specifically purloining any portion of lawful plunder in the context of a jihād or religious war. It emphasizes stealing what is designated for communal benefit.
Etymology: The term “G͟HULŪL” (Arabic: غلول) is derived from the root غَلَّ (ghalla) which means “to deceive” or “to act corruptly.” The root conveys notions of betrayal and treachery.
Background: In Islamic teachings, integrity, honesty, and justice hold paramount importance. The act of G͟HULŪL is especially condemned as it not only involves theft but the betrayal of communal trust. The Qur’an explicitly forbids it in Sūrah Ali-Imran 3:161, warning about severe repercussions on the Day of Judgment.
Cultural Differences and Similarities: Across various Islamic cultures, G͟HULŪL is viewed with a high degree of moral repulsion, reinforcing communal and spiritual solidarity. While in non-Islamic contexts, similar unscrupulous acts are labeled broadly as theft or fraud, the term G͟HULŪL embodies a specific censure within a collectivist religious framework.
Synonyms:
- Theft
- Fraud
- Embezzlement
- Deception
Antonyms:
- Honesty
- Integrity
- Trustworthiness
- Transparency
Related Terms:
- Amanah (أمانة): This refers to the trust or responsibility entrusted to someone, emphasizing the sacred duty of not betraying it.
- Harāmm (حرام): Denotes what is forbidden or proscribed by Islamic law.
Exciting Facts:
- The Qur’anic injunction against G͟HULŪL was revealed during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad to address the integrity among warriors.
- Historical records suggest that instances of G͟HULŪL, when discovered, led to severe communal and legal repercussions.
Quotations:
- “But he who shall defraud, shall come forth with his defraudings on the day of the resurrection: then shall every soul be paid what it hath merited, and they shall not be treated with injustice.” - Qur’an, Sūrah Ali-Imran 3:161
- “He who is entrusted with something and then betrays that trust in even the slightest amount, it is as though he has committed an immense sin.” - Prophet Muhammad (Hadith)
References:
- The Qur’an, Sūrah Ali-Imran, 3:161
- “Riyad as-Salihin” by Imam Nawawi - Collection of Hadith on righteous deeds
Suggest Literature and Other Sources:
- “The Qur’an: A New Translation” by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem
- “In the Path of God: Islam and Political Power” by Daniel Pipes
- “The Moral Economy of the Madrasa: Islam and Education Today” by Keiko Sakurai and Fariba Adelkhah
Quizzes:
Reflect on the essence of integrity embodied in the concept of G͟HULŪL. Upholding the truth fosters a community built on trust and righteousness.
Inspirational farewell: “Embrace the path of righteousness and integrity. For it is through these noble virtues that we create a world reflecting the divine harmony intended for all.”
Yusuf ibn Al-Khatib
