📜 Definition and Meaning of Tabaqat§
Tabaqat (Arabic: طبقات) are Islamic biographical dictionaries, meticulously arranged by rank, class, or generation. These compilations catalog the lives of significant figures in Islamic history. Such biographies might be grouped thematically by profession, geographically by city or region, or temporally in chronological order. Entries in Tabaqat usually include:
- Genealogy and family background
- Marriages and children
- Acceptance of Islam and critical life events
- Declarations of allegiance to the Prophet Muhammad (bayʿah)
- Contributions to Islam and scholarly works
- Information about the person’s death, funeral, and attending mourners
🔍 Etymology§
The term Tabaqat originates from the Arabic root “t-b-q” (ط-ب-ق) which means “to fold” or “to stack,” symbolizing layered groupings or classifications.
📚 Background and Historical Facts§
- Earliest Compilations: One of the earliest known Tabaqat is “Kitab al-Tabaqat al-Kabir” written by Ibn Sa’d (784–845 CE), a renowned historian and biographer.
- Significance: These biographical dictionaries hold immense value for Islamic history and genealogy, offering unique insights into the lives of prominent individuals and their societal contributions.
- Evolution: Over time, Tabaqat collections expanded to include various categories like scholars (fuqaha), jurists, poets, and saints, providing a comprehensive account of Islamic heritage.
🌏 Cultural Differences and Similarities§
- Synonyms: Biographical dictionary, genealogical catalogue
- Antonyms: Ahistorical, non-biographical
- Related terms with definitions:
- Hagiography: A biography of saints and religious leaders, focusing on their virtues and holiness.
- Tarikh: Arabic for history, often intertwined with Tabaqat concerning historical accounts.
🌟 Exciting Facts§
- Multiple Formats: Tabaqat can range from manuscript collections to printed volumes and digital formats.
- Global Influence: Islamic biographical dictionaries have influenced biographical traditions beyond the Muslim world, showcasing their universal relevance.
📖 Quotations from Notable Writers§
Ibn Sa’d once remarked:
“The purpose of compiling the biographies in my Kitab al-Tabaqat al-Kabir is to provide future generations with genuine examples of piety, knowledge, and humanity.”
📚 Suggested Literature and Sources§
- Books: “Kitab al-Tabaqat al-Kabir” by Ibn Sa’d, “Biographical Dictionaries: From the Dawn of Descriptive Writing” by Lutz Schmadel.
- Journals: Islamic History and Civilization: Studies and Texts, Journal of Islamic Studies.
- Resources:
- Encyclopaedia of Islam
- The History of Islamic Biographies by John Esposito.
8 Quizzes with Explanations§
Farewell! May the past inspire your future endeavors and fuel your quest for knowledge. — Ahmad Al-Rashid, 2023.
