Hisbah

Hisbah

Hisbah (Arabic: الحسبة; Turkish: Hisbe)

Definition:

Hisbah is an Islamic term referring to the oversight of community morals and the enforcement of public order, as well as the supervision of market transactions. The concept extends to various public welfare activities necessary for maintaining societal norms and protecting public interests from infringement.

Etymology

The word “Hisbah” originates from the Arabic root ḥ-s-b (حسب), which encompasses meanings related to “calculation,” “reckoning,” and “accountability.” The linguistic roots underscore the essence of the term, emphasizing the moral and ethical accounting in public life.

Function and Role

The primary person responsible for Hisbah is the Muhtasib (Arabic: المحتسب). The Muhtasib’s duties traditionally encompass:

• Maintaining Public Morals: Ensuring adherence to Islamic ethical and moral codes within the community.
• Supervising Market Conduct: Regulating commerce to prevent fraud, monopolies, and manipulation of weights and measures.
• Overseeing Religious Observances: Ensuring public compliance with religious duties, such as prayer and mosque maintenance.
• Community Welfare: Addressing civic matters and conflicts to uphold social justice and public order.

Historical Trajectory

With the advent of Western colonial influence, Hisbah institutions in many Muslim societies saw a transformation. The overarching supervision of public morals and market dealings gradually transitioned to secular administrators and governmental departments, often diluting the original comprehensive Islamic ethos of Hisbah.

See Also

• Muhtasib (المحتسب): The official entrusted with the duties under Hisbah.

Recommended Books for Further Studies

1. “Hisba, Comparative Law” by A. J. Wensinck - An analysis of Hisbah within comparative legal frameworks.
2. “The Muhtasib At Gaza: Anentryfrom Encyclopaedia Of The World Of Islam” by Malak Badcoe - Insight into the role of the Muhtasib in the context of Gaza.
3. “Public Moral Authority-establishment in Islamic Law: The Relevance of Hisbah and Muhtasib in Contemporary Times” by Khalil Hinawai - Exploration of the relevance and application of Hisbah today.

Key Takeaways

• Hisbah serves as a comprehensive system to uphold moral integrity, fairness in commerce, and public welfare in Islamic society.
• The scope of Hisbah traditionally included religious, ethical, and social aspects unified under the supervision of the Muhtasib.
• Historical and post-colonial contexts have modified the application and institutional relevance of Hisbah in modern Islamic societies.

Conclusion

The concept of Hisbah illustrates a rich tradition in Islamic governance that underscores the importance of moral, ethical, and public conduct oversight. While its functions have evolved, understanding Hisbah sheds light on the integral mechanisms that once ensured a well-regulated and morally adhered Islamic society.

By broadening the entry and providing translations, etymology, historical context, and relevant literature, this expanded definition should serve both as a comprehensive reference and a foundation for further study.