Definition and Meaning of Slavery in Islam
Slavery (Arabic: عبودية Subjugation: /‘ʕibuːdiː.ja/) within Islamic context historically refers to the practice where individuals are owned by others, devoid of personal freedom and compelled to perform labor or services.
Etymology
The Arabic term for slavery is ‘ubudiyya (عبودية), derived from the root ʕ-b-d (عبد), which is related to worship and servitude. The same root underlies the word for ‘servant’ (abd عبد). This etymological connection highlights a dual meaning in slavery discussions—both social servitude and religious devotion.
Historical Context
Slavery was prevalently practiced in pre-Islamic Arabia and other parts of the Mediterranean, Africa, and Asia. Upon the advent of Islam in the 7th century CE, specific guidelines and restrictions were imposed:
- Enslavement of Muslims or non-Muslims living under Islamic jurisdiction was forbidden.
- Slaves were primarily non-Muslims captured in war or bought from outside Muslim territories.
- Manumission (the freeing of slaves) was highly encouraged and seen as a morally commendable act, often associated with piety and expiation of sins.
Prominent Islamic scholars such as Ibn Khaldun and Al-Mawardi documented the intricate societal roles and legal stipulations involving slavery.
Modern Perspectives
Since the mid-20th century, slavery has become virtually extinct in the central Islamic regions. However, it persisted in some border areas due to ongoing conflict, especially notable in Sudan and Somalia.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Arab World: Historically, slavery was integrated into the economic and social fabric but saw a significant decline through reforms and independence movements.
- Africa: Similar patterns existed, but colonial and post-colonial reforms profoundly reshaped societal attitudes towards slavery.
- South Asia: The subcontinent had varying forms of bonded labor, which were formally abolished during British rule but lingered on in different social forms.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Bondage, servitude, enslavement, subjection.
- Antonyms: Freedom, liberty, emancipation, manumission.
Related Terms
- Manumission: The act of freeing a slave.
- Concubinage: A form of relationship in which a woman lives with a man but has lower social status than his wife or wives.
- Serfdom: A condition of servitude, similar in nature but tied as laborers to land.
Exciting Facts
- The Qurʾān itself provides several references to slavery and encourages the practice of freeing slaves for moral reasons.
- The Prophet Muhammad set numerous examples by negotiating for freedom of slaves and treating slaves kindly.
Quotations
- “And those who seek asylum among us, grant them it, and beat them not and sell them not while they seek honestly to ransom themselves away.” - Ibn Rushd, Islamic philosopher and thinker.
- “Freeing a slave is akin to freeing oneself from the chains of sin.” - Al-Ghazali, renowned Islamic scholar.
Recommended Literature and Sources for Further Study
- “Islam, Slavery and Abolition” by William Gervase Clarence-Smith
- “Slavery and Islam” by Jonathan A.C. Brown
- Historical texts by Ibn Khaldun, Al-Mawardi, and recent interpretations by modern scholars.
Quizzes on Slavery in Islam
Farewell Thought
Inspired by the constant pursuit of justice and human dignity within historical contexts, let us continue to educate ourselves and strive for a world where every individual is free and valued. Understanding the past is pivotal to shaping a better and equitable future.
- Rashid Al-Malik
“If we can conquer space, we can conquer childhood hunger.” – Buzz Aldrinus
