Crucifixion in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Definition and Islamic Perspective
Crucifixion, known as “صلب” (ṣalb) in Arabic, entails a method of execution where the condemned person is nailed or tied to a large wooden cross. In Islamic theology, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ [ʿĪsā ibn Maryam (عيسى بن مريم)] is a matter of significant theological divergence from Christian beliefs. The Qur’an explicitly denies the crucifixion of Jesus, stating that it appeared as such to the people but that he was not actually crucified.
Qur’anic Teaching
The relevant Qur’anic verse is found in Surah An-Nisa (4:157-158):
<p>“And [for] their saying, ‘Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.’ And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain.”</p>
Historical and Jurisprudential Aspects
While the Qur’an denies the crucifixion of Jesus, it does acknowledge crucifixion as a legal punishment for certain crimes. Specifically, Islamic jurisprudence, as found in texts such as the “Hidāyah,” sanctions crucifixion for severe offenses like highway robbery. This aligns with specific hadiths and the broader principles of hudud (fixed punishments) in Sharia law. For instance, Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:33) states:
<p>“Indeed, the penalty for those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger and strive upon earth [to cause] corruption is none but that they be killed or crucified or that their hands and feet be cut off from opposite sides or that they be exiled from the land. That is for them a disgrace in this world; and for them in the Hereafter is a great punishment.”</p>
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: صلب (ṣalb)
- Turkish: Çarmez
Notable Texts and References
- Qur’an: Specifically Surah An-Nisa (4:157-158) and Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:33).
- Hamilton’s Hidāyah: A classic manual of Hanafi jurisprudence that discusses various aspects of Islamic criminal law, including crucifixion.
- Hadith Collections: Available collections such as Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim provide additional context about the use of crucifixion as punishment.
Further Reading
- “Jesus and the Cross: Reflections of Christians from Islamic Contexts” by David Emmanuel Singh (Editor)
- “Crucifixion or Crucifiction?” by Ahmed Deedat
- “The Crucifixion: Fact or Fiction?” by John Gilchrist
- “The Hidāyah: A Commentary on the Islamic Laws” translated by Charles Hamilton
Takeaways and Conclusion
The concept of crucifixion serves different roles across Islamic theology and jurisprudence. The Qur’an denies the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, establishing a fundamental difference from Christian doctrine. However, within Islamic legal tradition, crucifixion is recognized as a form of extreme punishment for particular serious crimes, emphasizing both aspects of retribution and deterrence.
Understanding these perspectives requires deep engagement with the primary Islamic texts and scholarly interpretations. For those interested in delving further, the recommended texts provide extensive insights into the intricate interplay between theology, legal rulings, and historical context concerning crucifixion in Islam.
