📚 Delving into KITĀBĪYAH (كتابية‎): The Female Folks of the ‘People of the Book’

Definition and Etymology

Kitābīyah (كتابية‎): In Islamic terminology, Kitābīyah refers to a female from the Ahlu ʾl-Kitāb (أهل الكتاب), or “People of the Book”. This term is used within the Qur’anic context to designate women who are members of the Jewish or Christian faiths, religions that are recognized in Islam as possessing divine scriptures - the Torah and the Bible, respectively.

Etymology:

• Arabic Roots: Derived from Arabic, “kitab” (كتاب) means “book”, and the suffix “iyyah” turns it into an adjective describing something related to the book.
• Female Form: The addition of “ah” at the end distinctly marks the term as feminine, aligning with Arabic grammatical norms that differentiate masculine from feminine.

Background and Significance in Islam

Within Islamic doctrine, the term Kitābīyah holds contextual importance:

• It underscores the recognition of Judaism and Christianity as preceding monotheistic faiths with divinely revealed scriptures, symbolizing respect for divine revelation outside Islam.
• The Qur’an (Qur’anic references: Ma’idah 5:5) permits Muslim men to marry Kitābīyah women, espousing theological flexibility and intercommunication between these Abrahamic faiths.

Cultural Differences and Similarities

Similarities:

• Shared Beliefs: All the ‘People of the Book’ identify Abraham as a patriarch, cherish figures such as Moses and Jesus, and uphold a belief in a singular God.

Differences:

• While Islam provides specific guidelines and allowances for interfaith marriage, practices may vary significantly based on cultural and regional interpretations.
• The perception and integration of Kitābīyah within Muslim-majority communities can differ, often influenced by historical, sociopolitical, and religious dynamics.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:

• Ahlu l-Kitāb (أهل الكتاب) (People of the Book): An inclusive term encompassing both male and female members of the Jewish and Christian faiths.
• Dhimmīyah: a female non-Muslim under Islamic rule granted protection and certain rights.

Antonyms:

• Mushrikah: A female polytheist, or someone practicing beliefs opposed to monotheism.

Related Terms with Definitions

• Ahlu l-Kitāb (أهل الكتاب): Refers to Jews and Christians recognized in Islam as having received divine scriptures.
• Dhimmī (ذمي): Non-Muslims living under Muslim rule with legal protection.
• Muʾminah (مؤمنة): A term for a Muslim woman.

Exciting Facts

• Islamic legal tradition distinctly allows for marriage between Muslim men and Kitābīyah women, symbolizing a unique aspect of interfaith relations.
• The Qur’an’s recognition of Kitābīyah denotes acknowledgment of the continuity of divine guidance through different prophets and scriptures, fostering an enduring religious dialogue.

Quotations from Notable Writers

“Say, ‘O People of the Scripture, come to a word that is equitable between us and you - that we will not worship except Allah and not associate anything with Him.’” - Qur’an, Surah Al-Imran 3:64

Suggested Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies

• “The Qur’an and the People of the Book: A Conceptual Framework” by John Burton
• “Muslim-Christian Relations: Past, Present, Future” by Sarah Jössing-Pietsch
• “A Common Word: Muslims and Christians on Loving God and Neighbor” by Miroslav Volf

Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell

Understanding the term Kitābīyah deepens our appreciation of the interconnectedness of Abrahamic faiths. It inspires us to embark on a journey of discovery where common grounds are celebrated, and differences respected.

May the pursuit of knowledge always guide you towards understanding and unity.

Fatimah Siddiqui, October 3, 2023