AT-TAḤRĪM (التحريم)
Definition and Overview
“AT-TAḤRĪM (التحريم),” translated as “The Prohibition,” is the title of the 66th Sūrah (chapter) of the Qurʾān. This chapter is significant for its opening verse which addresses the Prophet Muhammad’s decision to prohibit something permissible in order to please his wives.
Key Verse and Context
The Sūrah starts with:
<p>“O Prophet! Why do you forbid [yourself] that which Allah has made lawful for you, seeking to please your wives? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Qur’an 66:1)</p>
The chapter highlights an incident in the life of the Prophet Muhammad involving his decision to refrain from interacting with a certain individual to please his wife Ḥafṣah. This Sūrah addresses this situation to clarify that lawful things should not be prohibited even out of personal considerations.
Etymology
The word “تحريم” (Taḥrīm) is derived from the Arabic root “حرم” (ḥ-r-m), which broadly signifies prohibition or making something sacred or inviolable.
- Arabic: التحريم (At-Taḥrīm)
- Turkish: Tahrim
Historical and Cultural Background
This Sūrah addresses a personal episode from Prophet Muhammad’s household to convey a broader ethical and moral lesson. The Sūrah is believed to have been revealed to free Muhammad from the oath he had taken regarding his Coptic slave-girl Māriyah and to establish that personal judgements should not override divine legislation.
Thematic Significance
AT-TAḤRĪM touches on several vital themes:
- Divine Legislation vs. Personal Discretion: Emphasizes that no personal inclination should lead to prohibiting what God has made lawful.
- Ethics in Domestic Life: Highlights the balance between domestic harmony and adherence to divine commands.
- Repentance and Forgiveness: Reasserts the themes of divine mercy and forgiveness, stressing that even a prophet is reminded of human fallibility and the need for divine guidance.
Further Studies
For those interested in a deep dive into the themes and exegesis of AT-TAḤRĪM, the following books and resources are recommended:
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr et al.: Provides comprehensive commentary and context for verses of the Qur’an.
- “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” by Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti: Classical exegesis offering line-by-line explanations of the Qur’anic text.
- “In the Shadow of the Qur’an” by Sayyid Qutb: A thematic exegesis providing deep insight into the surah’s message and implications.
Takeaways
- Respect for Divine Commands: The Sūrah instills the importance of adhering to God’s law above personal wishes.
- Ethical Behavior: Reflects on the ethical conduct expected from the Prophet, which serves as guidance for the Muslim community.
- Trust in Divine Wisdom: Demonstrates the concept of divine wisdom and mercy in correcting and guiding.
Conclusion
AT-TAḤRĪM (التحريم) exemplifies the delicate interplay between personal life and divine injunctions within Islamic thought. By examining this chapter of the Qur’an, we gain insights into both the intimate life of the Prophet Muhammad and the overarching principles governing lawful and unlawful actions within Islam.
