Comprehensive Definition
Tazkiyah (تزكية) is a central concept in Islam that encompasses various forms of purification and self-improvement. It literally means “purification” or “cleansing.” The term has several contextual uses:
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Spiritual Purification: In a spiritual context, Tazkiyah refers to the process of self-purification and development, focusing on the removal of spiritual impurities like greed, anger, and envy, and replacing them with virtues such as sincerity, patience, and gratitude.
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Legal Alms (Zakāt): In an everyday practice, it signifies the giving of zakāt, a form of alms-giving which is a pillar of Islam. Zakāt purifies wealth by distributing a portion to those less fortunate.
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Witness Evaluation: In Islamic legal contexts, it refers to the examination and validation of the character of witnesses, ensuring their honesty and integrity as per the requirements of Shariah.
Etymology
The word Tazkiyah (تزكية) is derived from the root z-k-w (ز ك و), which signifies “to grow” or “to increase.” It is closely related to the term zikr meaning “remembrance,” emphasizing growth through remembering and internalizing divine teachings.
Background
The concept of Tazkiyah is extensively mentioned in the Qur’an and Hadiths.
Qur’an: “And by the soul and Him who perfected him in proportion; Then He showed him what is wrong for him and what is right for him; Indeed, he succeeds who purifies his own self (i.e., obeys and performs all that Allah ordered and keeps away from all that He forbade).” (91:7-9)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “The most excellent jihad is the conquest of self.” - Hadith
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Across various Islamic traditions, the importance of Tazkiyah remains the same, but its applications might vary based on cultural contexts:
Similarities:
- Every cultural manifestation agrees on the significance of Tazkiyah for both individual development and social harmony.
Differences:
- Practices for spiritual purification may differ; for instance, Sufis engage in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and other spiritual exercises, whereas other traditions might focus more on analytical study and application of Shariah laws.
Synonyms
- Zakāt: Refers specifically to the mandatory charitable giving.
- Taharatu’l-Qalb (طَهَارَةُ الْقَلْبِ): Purity of the heart.
- Nafsan Zakiyyatan (نَفْسًا زَكِيَّةً): Pure soul.
Antonyms
- FISQ (فِسْق): Impiety, disobedience.
- NAJASA (نجاسة): Impurity, pollution.
Related Terms
- TAHARAH: General purification, including ceremonial washing.
- IHSAN: Doing that which is beautiful; asserting moral and spiritual excellence.
Exciting Facts
- Tazkiyah forms the thematic bedrock of various medieval and contemporary Islamic self-help and self-improvement literature.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“I raised my hand in prayer, for I sought purification; and lo, He purged the darkness of my being.” – Jalaluddin Rumi
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- Books:
- “Purification of the Heart: Signs, Symptoms and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart” by Hamza Yusuf
- “Ihya Ulumuddin” (Revival of the Religious Sciences) by Imam Al-Ghazali
- Articles:
- “The Role of Tazkiyah in Islamic Reform Movements” – Islamic Studies Review (forthcoming)
- Lectures:
- Lectures by Dr. Israr Ahmed on Nauman Ali Khan’s understanding of Tazkiyah.
May the purification of your heart lead you to endless spiritual growth and prosperity.
Rumana Al-Hassan
2023
