🌿 Understanding NAK͟Hʿ (نخع): The Legacy of the Arabian Tribe
The Nak͟hʿ (نخع), or Banu al-Nak͟hʿ, were a prominent Arabian tribe circa the time of the Prophet Muḥammad. They were descended from Qohtan and played a significant role in early Islamic history. Here, we will explore the etymology, background, cultural implications, and their influential contributions.
Comprehensive Definition
NAK͟Hʿ (نخع) refers to an ancient Arabian tribe known formally as Banu al-Nak͟hʿ. They were descended from Qohtan, subduing their autonomy under Caliph ʿAli during the lifetime of the Prophet Muḥammad around A.H. 10. Their allegiance represented the last notable deputation to the Prophet, symbolizing the transitional unity in the early Islamic community.
Etymology
- NAK͟Hʿ (نخع): In Arabic, “Nak͟hʿ” derives from نخع, which can have implications relating to offering blood or self-sacrifice, indicating their staunch dedication and loyal demeanor.
Background
The Banu al-Nak͟hʿ emerged from the southern regions of the Arabian Peninsula, notably linked with the larger group of Yemeni tribes. Historically, they gained notable status for their allegiance to Islam during the Prophet Muḥammad’s time, notably subjugated peacefully and forming significant Islamic community pillars. This deputation to the Prophet Muḥammad is underscored in traditional biographical works (Sīrah) such as Muir’s “Life of Mahomet.”
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities with other tribes:
- Like many Arabian tribes, the NAK͟Hʿ keened on kinship and tribal loyalty, an elemental aspect that found solace in unison with Islamic brotherhood.
- Engaged intensively in pre-Islamic customs yet dynamically transitioning under Islamic unity akin to tribes such as Aws and Khazraj.
Cultural Differences:
- Prolonged engagement with the Islamic state, resulting in a unique administrative role owing to their agreement to integrate quite formally only towards the later Prophetic era.
- Having entities distinguished during early Islamic conquests which unified Arab tribes post the Prophet’s last deputation acceptance.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Banu al-Nak͟hʿ: Another frequently used title.
- Al-Nak͟ḥiyūn: Referring broadly to the Nak͟hʿ people collectively.
Antonyms:
- Al-Mutrebiy ahlan: Denoting rival tribes or unsettled fractions not adhering to the Islamic expansion initially.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Al-Qohtānīyūn (الـقَـحْـطانيُّـن): Refers to larger Qohtanite lineages wherein Nak͟hʿ belong, illustrating a broader tribal association.
- Sīrah (سيرة): Prophetic biography inclusive of tribal integrative narratives.
Exciting Facts
- The NAK͟Hʿ tribe’s deputation was notably the last formal allegiance tendered to the Prophet Muḥammad prior to his passing, symbolizing crucial sociopolitical integration.
- Their categorical conversion evident in “Muir’s Life of Mahomet” underscores a transition pivotal in solidifying early Islamic consensus.
Quotations from Notable Writers
From Muir’s Life of Mahomet:
“It was the last deputation received by the Prophet— a definitive turnout illustrating the propensity of Islam’s expansion.”
From Ṣafī al-Raḥmān al-Mubārakpūrī’s “The Sealed Nectar”:
“The quest sketched by the Banu Nākh strongly appraises the intricate but unified propulsion towards a monotheistic fraternity.”
References
- Muir, W. “Life of Mahomet.”
- Ṣafī al-Raḥmān al-Mubārakpūrī. “The Sealed Nectar.”
Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Studies
- Muir, William. Life of Mahomet.
- Al-Mubārakpūrī, Ṣafī. The Sealed Nectar.
- Guillaume, A. The Life of Muhammad (Ibn Ishaq’s Sirat Rasul Allah).
- Al-Tabari. The History of al-Tabari. Vol. 8, “The Victory of Islam”.
Quizzes
Farewell Thought
May the profound history of tribes like the Nak͟hʿ guide us in deciphering the unity in our diversity, showcasing the eternal bond of humanity adorned by faith.
Khalid ibn Safwan
2023-10-03
