ṢĀʿ (صاع)
Definition and Context
ṢĀʿ (صاع), also known as ṢUWĀʿ (صواع), is a traditional Islamic unit of measurement primarily used for grains and other agricultural produce. The term is significant as it impacts various aspects of Islamic legal rulings (fiqh) concerning measures of capacity and has essential applications in rituals like Zakat al-Fitr.
Qur’anic Reference
The term appears in the Qur’an, specifically in Sūrah Yūsuf (Joseph), verse 12:72:
<p>“قَالُوا نَفْقِدُ صُوَاعَ الْمَلِكِ وَلِمَنْ جَاءَ بِهِ حِمْلُ بَعِيرٍ وَأَنَا بِهِ زَعِيمٌ” <em>(They said, “We are missing the king’s cup. Whoever brings it shall have a camel’s load [as a reward], and I [said Joseph] am responsible for it.”)</em></p>
According to interpretations, it is associated with the drinking-cup that the Prophet Joseph placed in his brother’s pack as a stratagem to keep him in Egypt.
Etymology
- ṢĀʿ (صاع): The word refers to a measure of capacity, often quantified as the amount four times the volume that fills two hands of an average-sized man.
- ṢUWĀʿ (صواع): This term, according to various readings, refers to a vessel from which one drinks.
- Alternative Readings: Various Quranic manuscript readings include ṣuwāʿ, ṣāʿ, ṣauʿ, and ṣuwāg͟h.
Measure and Significance
- Ancient Authorities: Traditional sources ascertain that a ṢĀʿ (صاع) is four almsfuls of corn taken by holding one’s hands together.
- Ritual Usage: The measure is crucial for calculating zakat, especially Zakat al-Fitr, obligatory charity given before Eid al-Fitr.
Scholarly Insights
- The Tāju ʾl-ʿArūs: This classical lexicon records varied readings and interpretations of the term.
- The Qāmūs: This source differentiates ṣuwāʿ as a drinking vessel and ṣāʿ as a measure of capacity.
- Al-Baiẓāwī: This exegete notes multiple readings including ṣuwāʿ, ṣāʿ, ṣauʿ, and ṣuwāg͟h.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic (العربية):
- Ṣāʿ (صاع)
- Ṣuwāʿ (صواع)
- Turkish (Türkçe):
- Sa’ (Sa’lık ölçü birimi)
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Muwaṭṭa of Imam Mālik” - transl. by Aisha Abdurrahman Bewley. This text elucidates on the measures used in early Islamic practice.
- “Fiqh al-Zakāt” by Yusuf al-Qaradawi. This book extensively covers the jurisprudence around charitable obligations, including measurements.
- “Qur’anic Lexicography: History and Problems of Its Development” by Thomas O’Shaughnessy. This text provides comprehensive insights into varying Quranic terminologies and their implications.
Takeaways
- Measurement Consistency: ṢĀʿ (صاع) is a critical measure in Islamic law for agricultural excess and charitable calculations.
- Varying Interpretations: The term undergoes different readings and usages in the Quranic context, reflecting its multifaceted role in daily and ritual practices.
- Cultural Relevance: Understanding the ṢĀʿ is essential for grasping historical trade, economic transactions, and religious duties in Islamic societies.
Conclusion
The term ṢĀʿ (صاع) outlines both historical and functional dimensions of Islamic practice. This unit serves not only as a measure of physical capacity but also enshrines significant legal and spiritual duties within the Muslim community. By studying its implications and various interpretations, scholars and practitioners can gain a deeper appreciation of its continued relevance in both historical and contemporary Islamic contexts.
