Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin (فرض العين) in Islam
Definition
Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin (فرض العين) refers to an Islamic injunction or ordinance that is obligatory for every individual Muslim to perform. These obligations include essential religious acts such as daily prayers (Ṣalāh), fasting during the month of Ramadan (Ṣawm), and others. Unlike collective obligations (Farḍu Kifāyah), which are duties that suffice if performed by a segment of the community, Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin must be fulfilled by each individual Muslim without exception.
Etymology
The term Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin (فرض العين) is composed of two parts:
- Farẓu (فرض) – Derived from the Arabic root “f-r-ḍ,” meaning to impose or prescribe.
- ʿAin (العين) – Typically refers to the “eye” but here is used in the sense of an individual or specific person.
Thus, Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin literally translates to “individual obligation.”
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: فرض العين
- Turkish: Ferdi farz
Examples of Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin
- Ṣalāh (Prayer): The five daily prayers are mandatory for every adult Muslim.
- Ṣawm (Fasting): Observing the fast during the month of Ramadan is compulsory for every adult Muslim.
- Zakāh (Almsgiving): Paying a fixed portion of wealth to the needy is obligatory on Muslims who meet a certain threshold of wealth.
- Ḥajj (Pilgrimage): Performing the pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime is required for those who have the means.
Significance in Islamic Practice
Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin obligations are fundamental for practicing Muslims and serve as the building blocks for one’s faith and overarching sense of community. They are crucial in shaping a Muslim’s daily routine and spiritual consciousness.
Muslims believe that by fulfilling these individual duties, they are adhering to the commandments set forth by Allah (SWT) and aligning themselves with the path of righteousness.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Fiqh al-ʿIbadat by Wahbah al-Zuhayli
- The Reliance of the Traveller by Ahmad ibn Naqib al-Misri
- Al-Muwatta of Imam Malik translated by Aisha Bewley
- Purification of the Heart: Signs, Symptoms and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart by Hamza Yusuf
Takeaways
- Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin pertains to duties each Muslim must perform individually.
- These obligations include essential acts such as prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
- Understanding and practicing Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin helps strengthen a Muslim’s faith and adherence to Islamic principles.
Conclusion
Farẓu ʾl-ʿAin holds a central place in Islamic doctrine and everyday practice. By committing to these individual obligations, Muslims maintain their spiritual health and fulfill the core requirements of their faith.
For a comprehensive understanding, it is recommended to consult authentic Islamic jurisprudential texts and seek guidance from knowledgeable scholars.
