MUHĀJIR (مهاجر) - The Islamic Migrant
Comprehensive Definition
The term Muḥājir (مهاجر) refers to a person who performs hijrah (هِجْرَة), which means “emigration” or “flight” in Arabic. This term historically denotes:
- Leaving Makkah with the Prophet Muhammad: This specifically refers to the early Muslims who migrated from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE to escape persecution.
- Leaving a Non-Islamic Country: In a broader sense, it includes Muslims who emigrate from any country ruled by non-believers in search of practicing their faith freely.
- Fleeing from What God has Forbidden: It symbolizes those who leave sinful environments or behaviors in pursuit of spiritual betterment.
Etymology
Muhājir is derived from the Arabic root H-J-R (ه ج ر), meaning “to abandon” or “to emigrate.” The term hijrah (هِجْرَة) and its derivatives form significant concepts in Islamic legal and spiritual discourse.
Historical Background
The most defining historic hijrah in Islam is the migration of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and his followers from Mecca to Medina. This event not only marked the establishment of the first Islamic state but also the beginning of the Islamic calendar (Hijri calendar).
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Cultural Reception: Among various Islamic traditions, the concept of hijrah retains a universal significance, albeit interpreted and practiced differently.
- Common Ground & Variations: Sunnis and Shias regard the foundational hijrah to Medina similarly, while cultural contexts (like South Asian or Middle Eastern) may influence the modern-day application of seeking refuge or migration.
Synonyms
- Emigrant: Reflects those who leave one’s homeland to settle elsewhere.
- Migrant: Highlights the journeying aspect of hijrah.
Antonyms
- Resident: One who stays in their place of origin.
- Settler: Opposite of someone who emigrates elsewhere.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Hijrah (هِجْرَة): The act of migration or emigration itself.
- Ansar (أنصار): “The Helpers,” referring to the residents of Medina who supported the Prophets and Muḥājirūn.
- Hijri Calendar (التقويم الهجري): Islamic calendar that starts from the year of the hijrah.
Exciting Facts
- The concept of hijrah inspired various movements, such as the emigration to Abyssinia by early Muslims seeking refuge from persecution in Mecca.
- The Hijri year commences with the month of Muharram, marking the importance of the migration steadfastly each year.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The hijrah marked a turning point, not just for Islam, but for world history.” — Karen Armstrong, in her book Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet.
“The honor and elevation came with the sacrifices of the Muhājirūn, who left all for the pursuit of Allah’s pleasure.” — Martin Lings, Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources.
References and Suggested Literature
- Armstrong, Karen. Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet. Harper, 1992.
- Lings, Martin. Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources. Inner Traditions, 1983.
- Peters, F. E. The Hajj: The Muslim Pilgrimage to Mecca and the Holy Places. Princeton University Press, 1994.
Quizzes
May the journey through the lexicon of Islamic terms inspire and educate, urging us all to delve deeper into the ocean of knowledge and spirituality. ✨
Layla Al-Muhammad
2023-10-04
