HĀSHIM (هاشم)
Definition and Significance
HĀSHIM (هاشم) holds a significant place in Islamic history as the great grandfather of the Prophet Muḥammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم). His contributions to Meccan society and his lineage are important facets of Islamic heritage.
Etymology
The name Hāshim (هاشم) originates from the Arabic root “hashama” (ح ش م), which means “to break bread.” This epithet was given to him due to his notable generosity, particularly in distributing bread to pilgrims in Mecca.
Arabic: هاشم
Turkish: Haşim
Historical Background
Birth and Lineage
Hāshim was born in 464 AD according to M. C. de Perceval, while Sprenger places his birth around 442 AD. He was the son of ʿAbdu Manāf and served as a key figure within the Quraysh tribe.
Marriage and Progeny
He married Salmah, and by her, he had a son named ʿAbdu ’l-Muṭṭalib. ʿAbdu ’l-Muṭṭalib was the grandfather of the Prophet Muḥammad through his son ʿAbdu ’llāh.
His Original Name
According to the author of Qāmūs, Hāshim’s original name was ʿAmr. He was later given the title Hāshim due to his acts of hospitality.
Contributions
Hāshim is traditionally noted for his philanthropic activities, particularly providing sustenance to pilgrims. This legacy of charity and hospitality earned him great respect among his contemporaries and the moniker Hāshim.
Suggestion for Further Studies
To delve deeper into the life and historical context of Hāshim and his contributions to Islamic heritage, the following resources are recommended:
- “The Life of Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq
- “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings
- “Kitab al-Tabaqat al-Kabir” by Ibn Sa’d
Takeaways and Conclusion
Hāshim (هاشم) symbolizes leadership, generosity, and pivotal historical significance as the ancestor of the Prophet Muḥammad. His acts of hospitality and charity echo through Islamic tradition and history.
By understanding the role and contributions of Hāshim, one gains a broader perspective on the rich tapestry that forms Islamic heritage and the ancestral roots of the Prophet Muḥammad.
For more detailed exploration, readers are encouraged to consult the suggested texts which offer comprehensive insights into the life and times of this significant historical figure.
