QAẒF (قذف): The False Accusation of Adultery
QAẒF (قذف), an Arabic term meaning “throwing at,” refers to the false accusation of adultery within Islamic jurisprudence. This serious charge involves significant ethical and legal repercussions.
Etymology
The term “QAẒF” derives from the Arabic root “ق ذ ف,” meaning to throw or hurl. Hence, it metaphorically implies throwing an unsubstantiated claim against someone’s honor.
Background and Context
The concept of QAẒF is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings and was established to protect the integrity of individuals and uphold societal morals. A pivotal moment that underscores this concept is the incident involving ʿĀyishah, the wife of the Prophet Muhammad, who was falsely accused of inappropriate conduct with Ṣafwān Ibnu ’l-Muʿat̤t̤il. Her vindication, through divine revelation, is chronicled in the Qurʾān, Sūratu ’n-Nūr (Chapter 24), Verse 4:
“But to those who accuse chaste women and produce not four witnesses, them shall ye scourge with eighty stripes, and reject their evidence ever after: for such men are wicked transgressors.”
Cultural Significance
QAẒF serves as a moral and legal deterrent against the damaging act of falsely accusing someone of a grave sin. It highlights the high ethical standards asserted by Islam and the importance of safeguarding human dignity.
Synonyms
- Buhtān (بهتان) - Slander
- Iftira’ (افتراء) - Fabrication
Antonyms
- Sidq (صدق) - Truthfulness
- Taḥrī (تحري) - Discretion
Related Terms
- Liʿān (لعان) - Mutual cursing invoked by a husband and wife during a severe accusation of adultery.
- Hudud (حدود) - The categories of crime and punishment in Islamic law.
Exciting Facts
- The stringent requirement to produce four reliable witnesses for accusations of adultery highlights the immense caution exercised in such matters.
- QAẒF is prescribed as a severe deterrent to false accusations to maintain societal harmony and avoid baseless defamation.
Notable Quotation
“To accuse an honorable person falsely is to attack the foundation of human dignity.” - Ibn Khaldun
Further Reading
- “Islamic Jurisprudence: An International Perspective” by Tahir Mahmood
- “Adultery and Islamic Law: Judah and Tamar in the Qur’an and Classical Muslim Exegesis” by Daniel A. Madigan
- “The Quran” by Muhammad A. S. Abdel Haleem (translator)
Quiz on QAẒF (قذف)
May you find strength in truth and peace in wisdom.
With respect, Amina Al-Fahad
