The traditionists place great importance on describing the precise way Prophet Muhammad used to sit, reflecting the deep cultural and religious significance behind it.
Definition and Etymology
Julūs (جلوس) in Arabic refers to the act of sitting. The term embodies much more than a simple act; it holds layers of historical, cultural, and religious implications.
Background and Traditions
Various Hadiths (recordings of the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad) provide detailed accounts of his sitting positions:
- Ibn ʿUmar: describes seeing Prophet Muhammad sit with his knees up, feet grounded, and arms around his legs.
- Jābir: recalls the Prophet reclining on a pillow placed under his arm.
- Kailah: notes the Prophet sitting in the mosque with great humility upon his buttocks.
- Morning Ritual: Jābir also narrates that the Prophet would sit with his feet drawn under him after morning prayers until sunrise.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In Islamic culture, sitting has both religious and social connotations. For instance, in mosques, worshippers sit on the ground, creating a sense of equality and humility before God. In social gatherings, seating hierarchy signifies respect; those of higher status sit higher than others, while equals sit at similar levels.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Resting, Settling, Reclining
- Antonyms: Standing, Rising, Walking
Related Terms
- Sujood (سجود): Prostration during prayer where the forehead touches the ground, symbolizing deep humility.
- Musalla (مصلى): Prayer mat used for sitting and prostration during prayer.
- Wudu (وضوء): Ablution before prayer often performed while sitting.
Exciting Facts
- Sitting in a respectful manner in front of elders or during religious gatherings is seen as a sign of good upbringing and respect.
- The manner of sitting described by Prophet Muhammad is often emulated in Islamic practice, to connect with the character and humility of the Prophet.
Quotations
“I saw him sitting in the mosque upon his buttocks, in the greatest humility and lowliness.” — Kailah.
References and Recommended Literature
- Mishkāt al-Maṣābīḥ: A vast collection of Hadith including the description of Prophet Muhammad’s sitting positions.
- The Sealed Nectar (Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum) by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri: Biography of the Prophet Muhammad, providing deeper insight into his daily practices.
- Forty Hadith Qudsi by Ezzeddin Ibrahim & Denys Johnson-Davies: A collection of sacred sayings touching on various aspects of Islamic ritual and social etiquette.
Farewell
May the study of these traditions inspire humility and respect in all aspects of your life.
“In cultivating humility in the way we sit and engage with others, we mirror the virtues of the Prophet and create spaces of respect and equality.”
— Amina Al-Fahad, 2023
