Glossary Entry: Nazr
Definition:
Nazr (نذر) is a solemn vow or commitment made by a Muslim to perform a certain act of worship or benevolence contingent upon the occurrence of a specific event or as an act of gratitude. It is considered a serious obligation, and failure to fulfill it necessitates expiation — generally through acts such as feeding or clothing the poor, fasting, or other charitable deeds.
Etymology:
Nazr’s root verb in Arabic (النذر) is “nazar,” which means to vow, promise, or make a solemn pledge. The term is closely related to commitments and promises honored in sacred or religious contexts.
Background:
Nazr serves multiple purposes: it can be a form of supplication, petitioning divine help for a pressing matter, as well as an expression of gratitude and devotion upon receiving what was sought. Common nazrs include pledging to make a charitable donation, fasting, or hosting a feast if a particular request is fulfilled.
Historical Facts and Dates:
Nazr has a rich history in Islamic tradition. Early instances can be found in the hadith literature and biographies of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions. The practice of making vows has also been noted as a common custom in various Islamic empires throughout history.
Cultural Differences and Similarities:
- Middle East: In many Arab countries, nazrs are often associated with religious and cultural festivals where vows are fulfilled through public feasting.
- South Asia: In India and Pakistan, it is common for people to make vows at Sufi shrines and later fulfill them in forms of communal feeding.
- Southeast Asia: In Indonesia and Malaysia, vows often coincide with the Islamic calendar and harvest festivals, showing a blend of spiritual and cultural expressions.
Synonyms:
- Qurbani ( قرباني ): A sacrifice or offering.
- Promise: A declaration or assurance to fulfill a particular act.
Antonyms:
- Oath-breaking: The act of not fulfilling a pledged vow.
Related Terms with Definitions:
- Fasting (صوم): An obligatory act of abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset.
- Charity (صدقة): Voluntary giving of help to those in need, considered a righteous act in Islam.
- Supplication (دعاء): The act of supplicating; a humbly asking for divine assistance in Islam.
Exciting Facts:
- In Islamic jurisprudence, making a nazr is considered a highly serious matter due to its implications.
- Many historical Muslim figures were known to make nazrs, showing its deep-rooted significance in Islamic spiritual practice.
Quotations:
- “When man makes a vow it is meant to fulfill a spiritual commitment to the Almighty, a transaction of faith and trust.” - Imam Al-Ghazali
References & Suggested Literature:
- Books:
- “Inner Dimensions of Islamic Worship” by Imam Al-Ghazali.
- “Understanding Islamic Theology” by Ignaz Goldziher.
- Articles:
- “Nazr and Its Religious Significance” (Journal of Islamic Studies)
- “Vows in Islamic Legal Thought” by Wael B. Hallaq.
Quizzes:
Published by
Amina Al-Fahad
Date: October 5, 2023
In every Nazr lies a heart’s deepest entreaty, a belief in blessings, and an oath that bridges the divine and the earthly.
