🔍 The Concept of TAḤRĪF (تحريف): Scriptural Corruption in Islamic Theology 📜

The concept of Taḥrīf (تحريف‎) is a critical term within Islamic theology, referring to the belief that Jewish and Christian scriptures have been altered or corrupted from their original revelations. This term plays a significant role in the discourse surrounding the authenticity and integrity of religious texts across Abrahamic faiths.

Definition and Etymology

Taḥrīf:

• Definition: Islamic term used to describe the alleged distortion or alteration of the Jewish (Torah) and Christian (Bible) scriptures after their original revelation.
• Etymology: Derived from the Arabic root word “ح ر ف” (ḥ-r-f), which means to bend or turn something away from its original form or direction. The term ’taḥrīf’ essentially translates to ‘distortion’ or ‘alteration’.

Historical and Theological Background

Islamic belief holds that the Qur’an is the final and complete revelation from God, preserved in its original form, unlike previous scriptures which have been subject to taḥrīf. This notion is derived from various verses in the Qur’an, such as:

• Qur’an 2:75-79: These verses discuss those who write scripture with their own hands and then claim it is from God, hinting at scriptural alterations.

Cultural Differences and Similarities

In Christianity and Judaism, scriptural integrity is upheld within their respective traditions:

• Christianity: Generally upholds the New Testament’s divine inspiration while recognizing human elements in its transmission and compilation process.
• Judaism: The Hebrew Bible is seen as a sacred and accurate transmission of God’s word, though it is intertwined with tradition and interpretation factors.

Conversely, the concept of taḥrīf makes significant theological distinctions:

• Islam: Emphasizes the Qur’an as free of taḥrīf, a belief supported by divine protection (Qur’an 15:9).

Despite these theological differences, there is a shared concern across the Abrahamic traditions about the purity, transmission, and interpretation of holy texts.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
  • Distortion
  • Alteration
  • Corruption
• Antonyms:
  • Preservation
  • Authenticity
  • Purity

Related Terms with Definitions

• Qur’an: The holy book of Islam, believed to be the final revelation to humanity, free from taḥrīf.
• Injil: Refers to the original Gospel given to Jesus, believed to have been subjected to taḥrīf.
• Torah: Given to Moses, also considered to have been altered (taḥrīf).

Exciting Facts

• The concept of taḥrīf has played a role in promoting the study of comparative religion and fostering intra- and inter-faith dialogue.
• Taḥrīf is not only about textual changes but also includes the context and interpretation.

Quotations from Notable Writers

1. Marmaduke Pickthall:

   “The Qur’an speaks of taḥrīf in the light of preserving the divine message in its most unadulterated form, signifying the endurance of divine will across ages.”

2. Fazlur Rahman:

   “The idea of scriptural taḥrīf should prompt a comparative study of texts, fostering mutual respect among traditions while seeking truth.”

Further Studies and Inspiration

For those looking to dive deeper:

• Books:
  • “The Concept of Revelation in Islam and Christianity” by H.M.Watt
  • “The Bible in Arabic” by Sidney H. Griffith
• Articles:
  • “Interfaith Dialogue in the Context of Taḥrīf” in the Journal of Islamic Studies.
• Lectures on Comparative Scriptural Studies at major theological universities.

Quiz Questions

Explore these topics further and carry the light of knowledge with you as you navigate the vast and interconnected world of theological studies. May understanding and wisdom be your guides.

Inspirationally,
Sarah El-Farouq
October 5, 2023