Jahiliyyah: Definition and Meaning
Comprehensive Definition
Jahiliyyah (Arabic: ﺟَﺎﻫِﻠِﻴَّﺔ, jāhiliyya) refers primarily to the period of ignorance in pre-Islamic Arabia before the advent of Islam. It also connotes ignorance of monotheism and divine law. In modern Islamic thought, the term has been extrapolated by scholars such as Abu al-Ala Mawdudi and Sayyid Qutb to critique contemporary secular modernity, describing it as a “new Jahiliyyah.”
Etymology
The word “Jahiliyyah” derives from the Arabic root “j-h-l,” which means to be ignorant or foolish. This root aptly captures the sense of ignorance and misguidedness perceived during the era preceding Islam in Arabian culture.
Historical Background
The historical epoch referred to as Jahiliyyah spans roughly the 5th and early 6th centuries CE. This period in pre-Islamic Arabia was characterized by polytheistic beliefs, tribal conflicts, social injustices, and a lack of moral and divine guidance.
Cultural Context and Interpretations
In a broader cultural context, Jahiliyyah has been employed by theologians and ideologues to argue against non-Islamic practices, governments, and ideologies. Figures like Mawdudi saw modern secular states as continuations of Jahiliyyah due to neglecting divine law. Sayyid Qutb extended this concept to argue against systems that permit human rule over other humans rather than submission solely to God.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Ignorance, Heathenism, Non-belief, Pre-Islamic period
- Antonyms: Enlightenment, Islam, Monotheism, Divine guidance
Related Terms
- Shari’ah (شَرِيعَة): Islamic divine law, often juxtaposed against the concept of Jahiliyyah when advocating for an Islamic governance system.
- Taghut (طَاغُوت): A term used to describe entities that rebels against justice, often associated with governmental and legal systems of Jahiliyyah.
Exciting Facts
- The term ‘Jahiliyyah’ was given religious connotations post-revelation, becoming axiomatic in Islamic ideology.
- Some historians consider the socioeconomic conditions of Jahiliyyah instrumental in setting the stage for the rapid spread of Islam.
- Islamic historians like Ibn Ishaq have documented classical Jahiliyyah poetry, reflecting the cultural ethos of the era.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“It is the rule of the self-appointed over people, a claim against the ultimate sovereignty of God that characterizes the state of jahiliyyah.” — Sayyid Qutb
Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Study
Books:
- “Milestones” by Sayyid Qutb
- “Towards Understanding Islam” by Abu al-Ala Mawdudi
- “Aspects of the Islamic Revolution” by Khurshid Ahmad
- “Pre-Islamic Arabia” by Abd al-Aziz Duri
Academic Papers:
- “The Meaning and Concept of Jahiliyyah in Modern Islam” – Journal of Islamic Studies
- “Jahili Champs: Island’s Pre-dawn Patriots. Theory and Experience” – Islamic Quarterly
Inspiration Note: “An understanding of Jahiliyyah pushes us to reflect upon our own times, striving for a society that aligns with divine guidance, justice, and collective moral responsibility.”
May this exploration of Jahiliyyah inspire us to ponder upon our pasts to brighten our future paths and guide humanity towards wisdom and enlightenment.
— Harun al-Rashid
