The Unfolding Story of AS-SAMIRI: A Qur’anic and Biblical Perspective 🤲
Comprehensive Definition
As-Samiri (السَّامِرِيّ) in the Islamic context is a significant figure mentioned in the Qur’an. He is primarily known for leading the Israelites astray in the absence of Prophet Musa (Moses), by creating a golden calf for them to worship (Qur’an 20:83-97).
The Samaritan in a broader Biblical context is often recognized from the parable of the Good Samaritan in the New Testament, which exemplifies compassion and mercy (Luke 10:25-37).
Etymology & Background
- Arabic (السَّامِرِيّ - As-Samiri): The term is derived from the Hebrew שומרון (Shomron), related to Samaria and Samaritans – a group distinct from the Judaic population but sharing historical roots. In the Qur’anic narrative, As-Samiri is portrayed as a deviant individual responsible for introducing idol worship.
- Hebrew (שָּׁמֳרוֹנִי - Shomroni): Generally identifies residents or natives of Samaria. The Good Samaritan parable reverses negative stereotypes, depicting a Samaritan who compassionately aids a wounded traveller who others ignored.
Cultural Differences & Similarities
Culturally, the Qur’anic account and the Biblical parable highlight profound lessons:
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Differences:
- The Qur’an: As-Samiri’s story stresses the danger of idolatry and deviation from monotheism.
- The Bible: The Good Samaritan parable underscores the virtues of compassion and altruistic behavior, transcending ethnic and religious boundaries.
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Similarities:
- Both narratives encourage a deeper reflection on moral and ethical conduct.
- Emphasize collective human values – adherence to faith, rejection of false worship, and embodying compassionate principles.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
- Synonyms: Idolater (for As-Samiri), Compassionate individual (for the Good Samaritan)
- Antonyms: Devoted follower, True Believer
- Related Terms:
- Moses (Musa): Prophet in both traditions who strives against idolatry.
- Golden Calf: Symbol of idolatry introduced by As-Samiri.
- Parable: Teaching method employed by Jesus depicting moral lessons.
Exciting Facts
- As-Samiri is a unique figure in the Qur’an not found in the same detail in any other religious text.
- The Samaritans, distinct from Jews, maintain a small community still existing today, primarily in Israel and the West Bank.
Quotations
- Qur’an 20:87 – “They said, ‘We did not break our promise to you by our willpower, but we were loaded with the burdens of the people’s ornaments, so we threw them [into the fire], and thus did the Samiri throw’.”
- Bible, Luke 10:33 – “But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him.”
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- The Qur’an: A New Translation by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem.
- The Historical Jesus: The Life of a Mediterranean Jewish Peasant by John Dominic Crossan.
- Moses and Monotheism by Sigmund Freud.
- Samaritan Cookbook: Traditional Recipes by Benyamim Tsedaka.
Quiz Time!
### Who is As-Samiri in the Qur'an?
- [x] A figure who led the Israelites astray by creating a golden calf.
- [ ] A compassionate traveler who aids others.
- [ ] The brother of Moses.
- [ ] A wealthy merchant in Medina.
> **Explanation:** As-Samiri is known in the Islamic tradition for leading the Israelites to apostasy by creating a golden calf in the absence of Prophet Musa (Moses).
### Which Biblical story features a compassionate Samaritan?
- [x] The Parable of the Good Samaritan
- [ ] The story of the Prodigal Son
- [ ] The story of the Golden Calf
- [ ] The Exodus
> **Explanation:** The compassionate Samaritan appears in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, which is about showing mercy and kindness.
### True or False: As-Samiri and the Good Samaritan depict the same lesson.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False. As-Samiri's story warns against idolatry and deviation from faith, while the Good Samaritan parable advocates for compassion and altruism.
### In which sacred text does the story of As-Samiri appear?
- [x] The Qur'an
- [ ] The Torah
- [ ] The Bible
- [ ] The Hadith
> **Explanation:** The story of As-Samiri appears in the Qur'an, particularly in Surah Ta-Ha (20:83-97).
### According to the Bible, what did the priests and Levites do when they saw the wounded traveler?
- [ ] Helped him
- [ ] Prayed for him
- [ ] Accompanied him to an inn
- [x] Passed by him
> **Explanation:** The priests and Levites in the parable passed by the wounded traveler, leaving the compassionate Samaritan to help him.
### True or False: Samaritans have a community still existing today.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True. A small community of Samaritans still exists today, primarily in Israel and the West Bank.
References
- Yusuf Ali, “The Holy Qur’an: Text, Translation, and Commentary”
- James L. Kugel, “How to Read the Bible: A Guide to Scripture, Then and Now”
- Benyamim Tsedaka and Sharon Sullivan, “The Israelite Samaritan Version of the Torah: First English Translation Compared with the Masoretic Version”
Inspiration begins when we reflect on the narratives that form the tapestry of our faith, guiding us towards deeper understanding and compassion in our lives.
Farewell, Seek Knowledge and Show Kindness,
Yusuf Al-Kabir October 5, 2023
