ĀK͟HIR-I-CHAHĀR-I-SHAMBAH (آخر چهار شنبه)
Definition and Significance
ĀK͟HIR-I-CHAHĀR-I-SHAMBAH (آخر چهار شنبه) refers to the “Last Wednesday” of the Islamic month of Ṣafar. This day is observed as a feast to commemorate an event in the life of Prophet Muḥammad when he experienced some alleviation from his final illness. According to tradition, this was the last time he performed the legal bathing (ghusl) before his death on the twelfth day of the next month, Rabi’ al-Awwal.
Etymology
The term ĀK͟HIR-I-CHAHĀR-I-SHAMBAH is composed of three parts:
- ĀK͟HIR (آخر) meaning “last” in Arabic.
- CHAHĀR (چهار) meaning “four” in Persian, implying “Wednesday” as the fourth day of the week.
- SHAMBAH (شنبه) meaning “day” in Persian.
Arabic: آخر أربعاء من شهر صفر
Turkish: Safar Ayının Son Çarşambası
Observances and Customs
In various parts of the Islamic world, unique customs mark the observance of this day:
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Ritual Bathing: Following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad, some Muslims perform a special bath as a means of purification.
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Seven Salāms Verses: Qur’anic verses known as the “Seven Salāms” (السَّبع أَلسلام) are written and then washed off with water. This water is afterward drunk as a charm against evil.
Examples of the Seven Salāms include:
- “Salāmun ʿalā Nūḥin fil-‘ālamīn” (Peace be upon Noah among the worlds, Surah As-Saffat 37:79).
Geographical Variance
The observance of ĀK͟HIR-I-CHAHĀR-I-SHAMBAH is not universal. It is primarily celebrated in South and Central Asia and parts of the Middle East. Notably, the Wahhabi sect, which follows a more strict and literal interpretation of Islam, does not observe this practice.
Recommended Books for Further Studies
- “The Canonization of Islamic Law: A Social and Intellectual History” by Ahmed El Shamsy
- “An Introduction to Islamic Law” by Wael B. Hallaq
- “Islamic Revivalism in Syria: The Rise and Fall of the Qubaysi Sisters” by Line Khatib
- “Islam in the Modern World” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Takeaways and Conclusion
ĀK͟HIR-I-CHAHĀR-I-SHAMBAH is a culturally rich tradition imbued with significant historical relevance. Its observance serves as a link to the past, allowing Muslims to commemorate the life of Prophet Muhammad in a ritualistic manner. Though not observed universally, it represents the diversity within Islamic practices and illustrates how historical events have influenced contemporary rituals.
By understanding these practices, one gains deeper insights into the rich tapestry of Islamic culture and the ways in which Muslims around the world connect with their religious heritage.
Note: Use markdown format for academic purposes, such as theological and cultural studies, and ensure the accuracy by consulting additional scholarly sources or religious texts.
