Inqadh: The Duty to Rescue in Islamic Jurisprudence
Definition and Meaning
Inqadh (إنقاذ) is an Arabic term which translates to ‘saving,’ ‘rescue,’ or ‘bringing relief or salvation.’ In Islamic law, it signifies a moral and often religious duty imposed upon Muslims to act in the assistance of those in distress, provided it does not pose significant danger to the rescuer.
Etymology
The term “Inqadh” is derived from the root “ن-ق-ذ” (n-q-dh) in Arabic, which conveys the concept of saving or rescuing.
Background and Historical Facts
Islamic teachings emphasize compassion, mercy, and support for fellow human beings, making the preservation of life a paramount duty. The obligation to rescue is thus ingrained within the ethical and moral framework of Islam.
In the Hadith, the traditions concerning the words and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), many narratives underscore the importance of aiding those in peril. For example, the Prophet remarked, “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself” (Sahih Bukhari).
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Inqadh parallels concepts in various cultures and religions where aiding those in peril is seen as an ethical or religious duty. For instance, in Judaism, the principle of Pikuach Nefesh warrants lifesaving actions to override almost any other religious rule. Similarly, concepts like “Good Samaritan Laws” in many Western legal systems emphasize aid responsibilities towards those in emergent distress situations.
Synonyms
- Rescue
- Salvation
- Relief
- Assistance
Antonyms
- Neglect
- Abandonment
Related Terms and Definitions
- Takaful (تكافل): A system of mutual assistance in Islamic finance and insurance.
- Zakat (زكاة): A charitable giving practice constituting one of the Five Pillars of Islam, aiming to support those in need.
- Sadaqah (صدقة): Voluntary charity aimed at benefiting others, particularly those in distress.
Translations
- Arabic: إنقاذ
- Persian: نجات (Najāt)
- Indonesian: Penyelamatan
- Urdu: نجات (Najaat)
- Bengali: উদ্ধার (Uddhār)
Exciting Facts
- Qur’anic Emphasis: Numerous verses within the Quran highlight the importance of alleviating the suffering of others, such as Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:32), which stresses the value of saving a single life as akin to saving all of humanity.
- International Influence: Islamic law principles influenced the humanitarian aspects within the Geneva Conventions and contemporary human rights frameworks.
Quotations
“He who relieves a hardship of this Dunya for a believer, Allah will relieve a hardship of the Day of Resurrection for him.” - Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- “Shariah: Theory, Practice, Transformations” by Wael B. Hallaq
- “Tolerance, Democracy, and Sufis in Senegal” by Sharon Lauterbach
- “Islamic Ethics of Life: Abortion, War, and Euthanasia” by Jonathan E. Brockopp
Inspirational Thought
“In the tapestry of humanity, each thread of compassion and rescue strengthens the fabric of coexistence, echoing the divine mandate of mercy that binds us all.”
Farewell with Benevolence,
Eman Abdul-Rashid
