Comprehensive Definition
Qainuqāʿ (قينقاع): A Jewish tribe situated near the city of al-Madīnah (Medina) during the time of Prophet Muḥammad. The tribe engaged in trade and craftsmanship, particularly noted for their skill in goldsmithing. The Qainuqāʿ were involved in a significant historical episode when Muḥammad besieged them, resulting in their exile.
Etymology
The name “Qainuqāʿ” (قينقاع) finds its root in Arabic, reflecting a tribal identity.
Historical Background
The Qainuqāʿ tribe was one of the three major Jewish tribes residing near Medina during the 7th century. Alongside the Banū Qurayẓah and Banū al-Naḍīr, the Qainuqāʿ were integral to the community’s socio-economic fabric. They initially had a pact of mutual support with the Muslims, but tensions rose leading to a military confrontation.
Siege and Aftermath
In the second year of the Hijrah, after a breach in the established treaty, the Prophet Muḥammad besieged the Qainuqāʿ in their fortress. After a fortnight of resistance, the Qainuqāʿ surrendered, and their men were expelled from Medina, relocating mostly to Syria.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
The interaction between the Qainuqāʿ and the early Muslim community exemplifies the broader interfaith and intercommunal dynamics present in early Islamic society. Their story reflects both conflict and coexistence, themes recurrent in historical narratives involving diverse religious communities.
Synonyms & Antonyms
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Synonyms:
- Banū Qainuqāʿ (سنو قينقاع)
- Jewish tribes in Medina
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Antonyms:
- Allies (referencing broken alliances)
- Friends (referencing the strained relations)
Related Terms
- Hijrah (هِجْرَة): The migration of Muḥammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
- Al-Madīnah (المدينة المنورة): The city of Medina, a key site in early Islamic history.
- Banū Qurayẓah (بنو قريظة): Another major Jewish tribe in Medina contemporaneous with Qainuqāʿ.
- Banū al-Naḍīr (بنو النضير): The third of the significant Jewish tribes in Medina.
Exciting Facts
- The Qainuqāʿ’s siege marks one of the earliest examples of conflict between the Muslim community and the Jewish tribes in Medina.
- Notably, the women and children of the Qainuqāʿ were spared during the exile, often leading to different socio-cultural narratives and Masā’il (religious considerations).
Quotations
- “Their courage has been lamented by some, but it was their craft and trade that truly wove them into the historical fabric of Medina.” — Dr. Ibrahim al-Samarqandî, Islamic historian.
- “With a sad unity, the walls of Qainuqāʿ’s stronghold echoed the verses of fate, as recorded in the annals of our past.” — Prof. Nada Raziq.
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
For those interested in the broader context and detailed historical analysis, consider the following works:
- “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings.
- “Life of Mahomet” by Sir William Muir.
- “The Jews of Arabia: A Forgotten Diaspora” by I.M. Lapidus.
- “The Sealed Nectar: Biography of the Noble Prophet” by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri.
Quizzes
To deepen your understanding and foster engagement, try the following quizzes:
Author’s Note: History is a tapestry of interconnected stories. The story of the Qainuqāʿ tribe reminds us of the delicate interplay between faith, community, and resilience. May this exploration of our shared past inspire a more profound understanding and mutual respect in our present.
- Yusuf ibn Mustafa, October 3, 2023
