IQTIẒĀʾ (اقتضاء)
Definition and Usage
IQTIẒĀʾ (اقتضاء) is an Arabic term that translates to “demanding” or “requiring.” In the context of Islamic exegesis (tafsīr), it is employed to denote sentences or expressions within the Qur’an that implicitly demand or necessitate certain conditions to be fulfilled. This concept is often utilized by scholars to derive legal rulings or ethical guidelines from the text of the Qur’an. Such exegesis involves understanding not only the direct wording of the scripture but also what is implicitly required by the context.
Etymology
The word IQTIẒĀʾ is derived from the Arabic root ق–ض–و (qāf-ḍād-wāw), which carries connotations of commanding, demanding, or necessitating. The specific form “IQTIẒĀʾ” is a verbal noun (maṣdar) in Arabic, further emphasizing the act of demanding or necessitating something.
Example in Qur’anic Context
One of the examples of IQTIẒĀʾ in the Qur’an is found in Sūrah An-Nisā’ (4:94).
<p><strong>“Whoso killeth a Muʾmin (a believer) by mischance shall be bound to free a slave…”</strong></p>
In this verse, the condition demanded (IQTIẒĀʾ) is that the person who accidentally kills a believer is obligate to free a slave. The implicit requirement here is that the slave should belong to the person who is performing the act of expiation. If he does not own a slave, another form of expiation becomes necessary, which is usually detailed further in Islamic legal texts.
Implications in Islamic Law
IQTIẒĀʾ plays a significant role in the formulation of Islamic legal theory (usul al-fiqh). It helps in the extraction of legal norms (ahkam) from the Qur’anic verses by understanding the implicit demands or conditions hidden within the divine text. Jurists and scholars extensively use this principle to derive specific rulings and to provide a comprehensive framework for legal and ethical conduct based on the Qur’anic guidance.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: اقتضاء
- Turkish: Talep
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Mohammad Hashim Kamali
- “An Introduction to the Sciences of the Qur’an” by Yasir Qadhi
- “Usul al-Tafsir: The Sciences and Methodology of Qur’anic Interpretation” by Ibn Taymiyyah
Key Takeaways
- IQTIẒĀʾ signifies the implicit demands or conditions within Qur’anic sentences.
- Utilized extensively in Islamic exegesis for deriving legal and ethical directives.
- Provides a nuanced understanding of the textual requirements beyond the literal meanings.
- Impands interpretations that influence Islamic legal and ethical norms.
Conclusion
The concept of IQTIẒĀʾ (اقتضاء) enriches the understanding of Islamic law by highlighting the implicit demands prescribed in the Qur’an. It ensures that Islamic jurisprudence remains faithful to the divine intent by considering both explicit directives and underlying conditions. Through IQTIẒĀʾ, scholars and jurists ensure that the holistic message of the Qur’an is fully comprehended and applied in a manner that upholds justice and ethical standards within the Muslim community.
