Taqiyah (تقية) - Comprehensive Definition
Taqiyah ( تقية) - an Islamic practice primarily observed within Shia Islam, refers to the precautionary dissimulation or denial of religious belief in situations where there is a credible threat of persecution or harm. The practice allows believers to protect themselves, their family, and their community from potential danger while preserving their faith internally.
Etymology
The term “Taqiyah” is derived from the Arabic root word “و-ق-ى” (w-q-y), which pertains to protection or safeguarding. Therefore, Taqiyah directly translates to “caution” or “precaution.”
Background and Historical Context
Qur’anic Basis: The concept of Taqiyah is supported by several verses in the Quran. Surah Al Imran (3:28) advises Muslims not to take the unbelievers as friends and allies in secret disregard to the believers, underpinning this with caution and prudence. Similarly, Surah An-Nahl (16:106) speaks about the permissible compulsion drives for dissembling faith when under duress while maintaining the heart’s faith intact:
“Whoso disbelieveth in Allah after his belief—save him who is forced thereto and whose heart is still content with faith—but whosoever findeth ease in disbelief: On them is wrath from Allah. Theirs will be an awful doom." (16:106)
These Quranic injunctions provide the theological basis for the recognition and practice of Taqiyah within Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh).
Historical Application
Pre-Islamic Era: The concept of religious dissimulation or concealment dates back to pre-Islamic times, where individuals concealed their beliefs in the face of persecution.
Shia Tradition: Shia Muslims have utilized the concept of Taqiyah particularly during various periods of oppression and persecution by Sunni rulers throughout history. The intensity of sectarian conflict, especially during the Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphates, necessitated Taqiyah to protect the Shia community, its leaders, and their followers.
Modern Application: In contemporary times, the relevance of Taqiyah is often a subject of debate and varied interpretation given the political and social dynamics of different Islamic communities globally.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Shia vs. Sunni Perspective: While Taqiyah is principally endorsed within Shia doctrines, some Sunni scholars also recognize it albeit with varying degrees, sometimes seen as only applicable in extreme situations of compulsions. Generally, Sunnis might view it less favorably compared to the broader acceptance in Shia jurisprudence.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
Synonyms:
- Dissimulation
- Concealment
- Precautionary Dissimulation
Antonyms:
- Sincerity (إِخْلاص)
- Open Declaration (إِعْلان)
Related Terms:
- Tawriyah (تورية): Tactical ambiguity, or using words that can have multiple meanings.
- Kitman (كتمان): Concealing one’s beliefs without overtly lying.
Exciting Facts
- Protective Measure: Many Shia Imams reportedly resorted to Taqiyah to spread their faith safely without jeopardizing their lives or the wellbeing of their followers.
- Global Usage: Although it is primarily a Shia practice, historical records suggest that various minority Muslim communities across the world have utilized similar concepts under persecution.
Quotations
-
Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq: “Taqiyah is my religion and the religion of my forefathers.”
-
Ali ibn Abi Talib: “Taqiyah should never be put aside until the [appearance of the] Qa’im (rightly guided one).”
Suggest Literature for Further Studies
- “Taqiyah in Shi’a Practice” by Farhad Daftary
- “The Twelver Shia in Modern Times: Religious Culture & Political History” by Rainer Brunner and Werner Ende
- “Shia Islam: From Religion to Revolution” by Heinz Halm
Inspirational Thought
“Understanding Taqiyah underlines the importance of preserving faith, not through bold declarations in times of safety alone, but through wise discretion in the face of real peril.”
Farewell Thought: “In the folds of history, where beliefs were shadows threatened by the blazing sun of persecution, Taqiyah served as a shield shaped by wisdom and fortified by faith.”
