Refugees: Definition and Meaning
Refugees: Refugees are individuals who have been forced to flee their country due to persecution, war, or violence. They often have a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
Etymology:
The term “refugee” originates from the Latin word “refugium,” meaning “a place to flee back to.”
Background:
In the Islamic context, the idea of welcoming and helping refugees is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an and the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Qur’anic verse 4:100 speaks volumes about the importance of providing refuge:
“And whoever emigrates for the cause of Allah will find on the earth many [alternative] locations and abundance.”
The act of Hijrah, when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers migrated from Mecca to Medina, serves as an enduring model of asylum throughout Islamic history.
Historical Facts and Dates:
- 622 CE: The Hijrah marks the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s migration to Medina, an iconic example of seeking and providing refuge.
- 1492 CE: Following the fall of Granada, Muslims and Jews fled Spain to avoid the Inquisition and found refuge in various Muslim countries.
- 1948 - 1951 CE: Iraqi Jews found asylum throughout the Muslim world, particularly in Iran and Sudan, during periods of persecution.
Cultural Context and Variations:
- In Turkey, Syrian refugees have been welcomed and integrated into communities.
- In Pakistan, Afghan refugees have found temporary homes despite economic challenges.
- In Indonesia, the spirit of “Guest culture” is identifiable in the locals’ hospitality to the Rohingya refugees.
Synonyms:
- Asylum Seekers
- Displaced Persons
- Exiles
Antonyms:
- Nationals
- Citizens
- Settlers
Related Terms with Definitions:
- Asylum: Protection granted to foreign citizens fleeing danger or persecution.
- Emigration: The act of leaving one’s place of residence or country to live elsewhere.
- Hijrah: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s migration to Medina, marking the Islamic Calendar’s inception.
Exciting Facts:
- The Hijrah is not just a glorious chapter of Islamic history but also underlines the virtue of seeking and offering refuge that is still celebrated yearly.
- The Ottoman Empire historically provided refuge to Spanish Jews post-1492, underlining the Islamic principle of providing asylum.
Quotations from Notable Writers:
“In Islam, the refugee stands under the indefinite promise of divine hospitality and mercy—an adenium reflective of dignity given to man.” - Idris Al-Sharif, The Shores of Divinity (2011)
Further Reading and Sources for Inspiration:
- “The Humane Prophet: Life and Actions of Muhammad” - by Reza Aslan
- “Hijrah: The True Immigrant Story” - by Dr. Bilal Philips
- “The Consequences of Compassion in the Quran” - edited by Yasir Qadhi
- “Islamic Hospitality and International Law” - by Amr Abdu Menshawi
Quizzes
May peace and compassion guide your journey in understanding and practicing hospitality. - Amina Al-Fahad
