Al-Mumtaḥinah (الممتحنة)
Definition and Context
Al-Mumtaḥinah (الممتحنة) is the title of the 60th Surah (chapter) of the Qur’an. The term ‘Al-Mumtaḥinah’ translates to “She who is tested” or “She who is tried.” The title is derived from an instruction found in the tenth verse of the Surah, which discusses the examination of believing women who sought refuge with the Muslims.
Etymology
The Arabic term Al-Mumtaḥinah (الممتحنة) comes from the root word “محن” (mihnah), which means “to test” or “to try.” This root is common in other Arabic words that convey notions of examination and trials.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: الممتحنة
- Turkish: İmtihan Eden (Deneyen) Kadın
Qur’anic Reference
The title of the Surah refers specifically to Surah Al-Mumtaḥinah 60:10:
<p>“O you who have believed, when the believing women come to you as emigrants, examine them. Allah is most knowing as to their faith. And if you know them to be believers, then do not return them to the disbelievers; they are not lawful (wives) for them, nor are they lawful (husbands) for them.”</p>
Tafsir (Exegesis)
Al-Baiḍāwī’s Commentary: Prominent Islamic scholar Al-Baiḍāwī explains that when believing women sought asylum in Medina, the Prophet Muhammad required them to swear an oath. The oath would affirm that their emigration was solely for the sake of embracing Islam and not motivated by animosity toward their former non-Muslim husbands or out of affection for any Muslim man.
Significance and Themes
Surah Al-Mumtaḥinah deals with various relational and social norms, specifically focusing on the interactions between Muslims and non-Muslims. Its primary themes include:
- Emigration and Faith: The credibility of the faith of those emigrating (especially women) is to be tested.
- Relational Boundaries: The Surah outlines guidelines on how to treat believers who are leaving the non-Muslim territories and joining the Muslim community.
- Ethical Exhortations: The chapter emphasizes fair treatment and integrity in dealing with emigrants and the responsibilities toward those who seek protection.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” - by Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti. A detailed Qur’anic exegesis that provides more insight into the meanings of Surah Al-Mumtaḥinah.
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” - by Seyyed Hossein Nasr et al. This book offers a contemporary and comprehensive understanding of the Surah’s meanings and implications.
- “The Qur’an: An Encyclopedia” - edited by Oliver Leaman. It provides detailed entries about the various Surahs, including Al-Mumtaḥinah, and discusses their historical and theological contexts.
Key Takeaways
- Title Meaning and Derivation: The term Al-Mumtaḥinah signifies “She who is tested,” pointing to the trials believed women underwent to prove their faith.
- Context: It was revealed during a background where ensuring the sincerity of one’s faith, especially among female emigrants, was crucial.
- Themes: It addresses the ethical and social dealings between Muslims and non-Muslims, focusing on emigration, faith verification, and relational ethics.
- Tafsir Importance: The explanation by Al-Baiḍāwī underscores the importance of sincere faith and ethical considerations in the early Muslim community.
Conclusion
Surah Al-Mumtaḥinah offers profound insights into the themes of faith, migration, and relational ethics within the early Islamic community. It underscores the importance of ensuring genuine belief and provides ethical guidelines for interacting with emigrants seeking refuge. Understanding this Surah helps elucidate the emphasis Islam places on sincerity of faith and fair treatment in social interactions.
For a deeper understanding, refer to the suggested books that provide extensive commentary and context on Surah Al-Mumtaḥinah.
