Horses in Islam

Definition

Horses (Arabic: faras, فرس; Turkish: at), with alternate terms such as k͟hail (خيل) and the plural k͟huyūl, hold a significant place in Islamic culture and history, particularly given the deep affection Prophet Muhammad himself had for them. Horses are not only revered for their role in early Islamic conquests but also for their beauty, strength, and loyalty.

Etymology

The term faras (فرس) in Arabic directly translates to “horse.” In Turkish, this is rendered as at. Understanding the term’s background provides insight into the cultural and historical contexts in which horses were held in high regard.

Significance of Horses in Early Islam

Prophet Muhammad’s affection for horses was considerable, mirroring the sentiments of many Arabs of his time. According to Anas, Prophet Muhammad had a profound fondness for both women and horses. His admiration was noted in several Hadiths (recorded sayings and actions of the Prophet). Abū Qatādah quoted Muhammad as saying: “The best horses are black with white foreheads and having a white upper lip.” In contrast, another tradition by Abū Wahhāb noted that the Prophet considered a bay horse with a white forehead and white fore and hind legs the best, illustrating some inconsistencies among traditionists.

Types of Horses

According to the Hidāyah (an authoritative text on Islamic Jurisprudence):

1. Birẕaun (Burẕūn/Burẕūn): A heavy draught horse brought from foreign lands.
2. ʿAtīq (عتیق): A purebred Arabian horse.
3. Hajīn (هجين): A half-bred horse with an Arabian mother and a foreigner father.
4. A half-bred horse with an Arabian father and a foreign mother.

Horses in Warfare and Daily Life

Horses played a pivotal role in early Islamic conquests and day-to-day activities. According to Islamic law, a horseman was entitled to share plunder and receive double the share due to his horse’s contribution in wartime. However, this share did not increase if the horseman owned multiple horses.

Books for Further Studies

For those interested in delving deeper into the significance and role of horses in Islamic history, culture, and jurisprudence, the following books are recommended:

1. “The Animal in Ottoman and Turkish History” by Suraiya Faroqhi
2. “Prophet Muhammad and His Companions” by Abi Nu’aym Al-Isfahani
3. “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad (4 Volumes)” by Ibn Kathir
4. “The Role of the Arabian Horse in Islamic Culture” by Dr. Aḥmad Mukhtār al-Ḥilwānī

Takeaways and Conclusion

• Horses were highly revered during the time of Prophet Muhammad and continue to hold a significant place in Islamic culture.
• The Prophet’s specific attributes for preferred horses reflect the aesthetic and practical values of Arabian society.
• Different classifications of horses, as outlined in Islamic jurisprudence, show the importance of breeding and lineage in historical Arabian culture.
• Horses in Islam were not only indispensable in warfare but also symbolized loyalty, strength, and beauty.

In conclusion, understanding the role of horses in Islamic tradition offers valuable insights into the cultural and historical practices of early Islam, as well as the continued reverence for these noble animals.

For further reading and research, consider accessing works on the cultural significance and historical roles of horses in Islamic societies, including scholarly treatises and classical texts.