IQRĀR (اقرار‎)

Definition

IQRĀR (اقرار‎) is an Arabic term that refers to acknowledgment or confession. It is utilized in various contexts within Islamic jurisprudence and theology, serving significant roles in legal, contractual, and religious obligations.

Legal Context:

1. Sales and Contracts: IQRĀR denotes the avowal of the right of another upon oneself in scenarios like sales and contracts.
2. Divorce: In the context of family law, it involves the formal acknowledgment in matters relating to marriage and divorce.

Theological Context:

1. Confession of Faith: IQRĀR is used to signify the profession of the Muslim faith, affirming the core tenets of Islam.
2. Confession of Sin: It can also represent the admission of sin, crucial for repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah.

Specific Terms

• Iqrār-nāmah: A legal deed of acknowledgment, formalizing an individual’s acceptance of a right, duty, or contract.
• Iqrār-nāmah s̤alās̤ī: A deed of arbitration by a third party, often used to settle disputes by acknowledging the decision of an impartial mediator.
• Iqrāru ʾl-as̤ām: A confession of guilt by a prisoner, critical in rendering judgments in legal proceedings.
• Iqrār ʿāmm: A public acknowledgment, ensuring transparency and accountability in communal or public matters.

Etymology

The term IQRĀR (اقرار‎) is derived from the root ق ر ر (Q-R-R), which fundamentally means to establish or affirm. The word highlights the essence of declaration, confession, or acknowledgment of truth or responsibility.

Translations

• Arabic: اقرار
• Turkish: İkrar

Further Studies

To delve deeper into the concept of IQRĀR and its applications in various contexts, consider exploring the following books:

1. “Islamic Law: Theory and Practice” by Wael B. Hallaq
2. “Islamic Legal Philosophy” by Susan Spectorsky
3. “An Introduction to Islamic Law” by Joseph Schacht
4. “The Heirs of the Prophet Muhammad and the Roots of the Sunni-Shia Schism” by Barnaby Rogerson
5. “The Oxford Handbook of Islamic Theology” edited by Sabine Schmidtke

Takeaways

• Legal & Theological Importance: IQRĀR is significant in both legal and religious contexts, serving as a foundation for transactions and faith declarations.
• Forms and Applications: Different forms of IQRĀR such as Iqrār-nāmah and Iqrār-nāmah s̤alās̤ī have specific applications in legal documentation and adjudication.
• Cultural Context: Understanding IQRĀR enriches comprehension of Islamic law and its influence on daily Muslim practices and religious obligations.

Conclusion

IQRĀR (اقرار‎) is a multifaceted term in Islam encompassing legal and theological dimensions. Recognizing its applications and significance helps in understanding the deeper nuances of Islamic jurisprudence and religious practice.

This entry provides an expanded and elaborated understanding of the term IQRĀR (اقرار‎), showcasing its versatility and significance within different Islamic contexts, and directing further study through recommended scholarly readings.