Comprehensive Definition
ḤIQQAH (حقة) refers to a female camel that has reached three years of age. This specific age classification is significant in Islamic jurisprudence, particularly in the context of zakat (almsgiving), where it is used to determine the type of camel to be given in zakat when the number of camels owned ranges from forty-six to sixty.
Etymology
The term ḤIQQAH (حقة) derives from classical Arabic, where it denotes a female camel in her third year. The root “ḥ-q-q” encapsulates meanings of reality and truth, alluding perhaps to the age of the camel as a coming of maturity.
Background and Religious Context
The concept of Wealth in Islam emphasizes protection and fair redistribution. As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, zakat is compulsory, charitable giving which requires Muslims to contribute a portion of their wealth, the specifics of which are extensively detailed in the Hadiths and classical texts.
Why Camels?
Camels are valued assets in the agricultural and nomadic societies of many Islamic cultures, thus understanding their classifications is essential in ensuring the proper fulfillment of the zakat obligation.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Differences
- Nomadic vs. Settled Communities: Nomadic communities in regions such as the Arabian Peninsula may have detailed understanding and practices surrounding camels like ḤIQQAH, whereas settled urban communities might use other forms of wealth such as currency or crops for zakat.
Similarities
- Unified Aim: Across different cultures within the Muslim world, the overarching principle remains the same— to purify wealth by giving to those in need according to the guidelines stipulated by Shariah (Islamic law).
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
- Jaza’ah (جزعة): A four-year-old female camel, given as zakat for camels exceeding 61 in number.
- Tabῑ’ah (تابعة): A yearling camel used in zakat for less numerous camel herds.
Antonyms
- Khulf (خلص): Refers to camels excluded from zakat—camels neither age-appropriate nor within the required number range.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Zakat (زكاة): Obligatory almsgiving where a specific portion of one’s wealth is given to those in need.
- Nisab (نصاب): The minimum amount of wealth subject to zakat.
- Shariah (شريعة): Islamic legal and moral code governing the lives of Muslims, including zakat.
Exciting Facts
- A camel of the ḤIQQAH age is approx. equivalent in value to 10 sheep or one cow in the context of zakat classification.
- It is also a time when the camel’s capability for breeding increases, adding value to its worth.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Verily, God has ordered that the obligatory charity (zakat) should be taken from the rich and distributed to the poor.” - Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)
References and Further Reading
- Al-Muwatta of Imam Malik - Classic work detailing early Islamic law, including rules on zakat.
- Fiqh Zakat by Dr. Yusuf al-Qaradawi - Comprehensive book on the philosophy and jurisprudence of zakat.
- The Meaning of the Holy Qur’an by Abdullah Yusuf Ali - English translation and commentary providing insights into zakat and its foundations.
Quizzes on ḤIQQAH
With the understandings of ḤIQQAH comes a more profound acknowledgment of the detailed nature of Islamic jurisprudence. By diving into the classifications and conditions for zakat, one appreciates the balance and structure that the faith provides for its followers, ensuring justice, compassion, and community well-being.
Away from concepts, like always, a phased reality presents universal connections; ḤIQQAH sparks the curiosity inherent in all disciplines of knowledge - be it agriculture, jurisprudence, or spirituality.
Happy Learning, Samir Rashid
