Discovering HIDĀYAH (هداية): The Pathway to Islamic Guidance 🕌
Definition
HIDĀYAH (هداية): The Arabic term “Hidāyah” means guidance. In Islamic thought, it broadly refers to the divine guidance provided by Allah through the Qur’ān and the Prophets. It also names a monumental text in Sunnī jurisprudence, “Al-Hidāyah,” an authoritative legal manual authored by Shaik͟h Burhānu ʾd-dīn ʿAlī.
Etymology
The term “Hidāyah” (هداية) is derived from the root verb hada (هدى), which means “to guide” or “to lead.” This term recurs throughout Islamic texts, symbolizing spiritual, moral, and legal guidance.
Background
The book “Al-Hidāyah” (هداية) is a foundational manual on Sunnī law, also referred to as Hidāyah fīʾl-furūʿ, meaning “guidance in particular points.” Shaik͟h Burhānu ʾd-dīn ʿAlī, born in Marg͟hīnān around 1135 and passing in 1197, authored this extensive work, which remains widely referenced in Islamic legal studies.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In various Islamic cultures, Hidāyah can refer to both spiritual and practical guidance:
- Spiritual Context: In Islam, both Sunnī and Shīʿa traditions emphasize Hidāyah as divine guidance through the Qur’ān and Hadith.
- Practical Context: Different Islamic schools have distinct legal texts; among these, “Al-Hidāyah” stands out within the Ḥanafī school, influencing vast regions such as South Asia and the Middle East.
Synonyms
- Irshād (إرشاد): Meaning counseling or guidance.
- Nasīhah (نصيحة): Meaning advice or counsel.
Antonyms
- Ḍalāl (ضلال): Meaning misguidance or error.
- Tughyan (طغيان): Meaning rebellion or disobedience, as in straying from the righteous path.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Taqwá (تقوى): God-consciousness or piety, it’s often linked with seeking Hidāyah.
- Sharīʿah (شريعة): Islamic law derived from the Qur’ān and Sunnah.
- Fiqh (فقه): Islamic jurisprudence or the understanding of Sharīʿah.
Exciting Facts
- Comprehensive Manual: “Al-Hidāyah” covers a wide range of topics from prayers to legal transactions, marriage, and criminal law.
- Enduring Influence: It holds a prestigious place in Ḥanafī jurisprudence, alongside the works of Imam Abu Hanifa and his disciples.
- Multilingual Reach: Translated into multiple languages, including an English version by Charles Hamilton published in 1791.
Quotations
“Truly, it is only God who bestows Hidāyah to the truthful. On this path, guidance becomes perpetual light.” — Rūmī
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- “The Oxford Handbook of Islamic Law” by Anver M. Emon and Rumee Ahmed.
- “Islamic Jurisprudence: An International Perspective” edited by C.G. Weeramantry.
Farewell Thought
In the pursuit of knowledge, may you find the Hidāyah that aligns you with the divine wisdom and sheds light on your endeavors. Keep your heart and mind open to the perpetual guidance that leads to inner peace and righteousness.
Signed, Nadira Al-Mufti, October 2023
