ISQĀT̤ (اسقاط)
Definition
ISQĀT̤ (Arabic: اسقاط, Turkish: Düşük) refers to the act of abortion, specifically the termination of a pregnancy. In Islamic jurisprudence, it pertains to both the ethical and legal dimensions surrounding the deliberate ending of pregnancy.
Etymology
The term ISQĀT̤ originates from the Arabic verb “سقط” (saqata) which means “to drop” or “to fall,” indicating the act of causing something to fall or be nullified—in this case, a pregnancy.
Theological Context
Ethical and Jurisprudential Perspectives
Abortion, or ISQĀT̤, is a subject of significant ethical and theological debate within Islam. Islamic law (Sharia) derives rulings primarily from the Quran, Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), and the consensus of scholars (Ijma).
Early Pregnancy
Islamic scholars commonly differentiate between abortions taking place during the early stages of pregnancy and those taking place after ’ensoulment’ (when the soul is believed to enter the fetus). According to many scholars, ensoulment occurs at 120 days (approximately 4 months).
After Ensoulment
After ensoulment, abortion is generally forbidden unless continuing the pregnancy poses a serious threat to the mother’s life. Prior to this period, some schools of thought may permit abortion for legitimate reasons, such as severe fetal abnormality or significant harm to the mother’s health.
Contemporary Views
Modern Islamic scholars have various interpretations and rulings, considering advances in medical science and changing cultural contexts. They often offer more nuanced positions on issues like congenital defects and the socio-economic challenges faced by the mother.
Legal Rulings
Hanafi School
The Hanafi School of Islamic jurisprudence allows abortion before 120 days under specific conditions, prioritizing the mother’s health and well-being.
Shafi’i and Hanbali Schools
The Shafi’i and Hanbali schools are typically stricter, allowing abortion in rare circumstances, emphasizing the sanctity of potential life.
Maliki School
The Maliki School often holds the strictest view against abortion, generally prohibiting it unless absolutely necessary to save the mother’s life.
Cultural Practices
Abortion’s permissibility can vary greatly in different Islamic cultures, influenced by local traditions, laws, and societal norms. However, the underlying principle in all contexts remains adherence to the ethical tenets of Islam.
Suggest Further Reading
- Ali, Kecia. “Sexual Ethics and Islam: Feminist Reflections on Qur’an, Hadith, and Jurisprudence”. Oneworld Publications.
- Sachedina, Abdulaziz. “Islamic Biomedical Ethics: Principles and Application”. Oxford University Press.
- Omran, Abdel-Rahim. “Family Planning in the Legacy of Islam”. Routledge.
Takeaways
- ISQĀT̤ (اسقاط) is a complex and sensitive subject in Islamic thought, blending ethical, theological, and legal considerations.
- The term originates from Arabic, meaning “to drop” or “to fall,” reflecting the act of terminating a pregnancy.
- Islamic perspectives on abortion vary, though there is a general consensus on different rulings before and after the fetus is ensouled.
- The positions from various schools of thought (Hanafi, Shafi’i, Hanbali, Maliki) show a spectrum from conditional allowance to strict prohibition.
Conclusion
Understanding ISQĀT̤ (اسقاط) requires a nuanced exploration of Islamic ethical teachings, jurisprudential debates, and contemporary interpretations. The multifaceted nature of abortion in Islam signifies the importance of contextual awareness and sensitivity to both religious and cultural dimensions in addressing this topic.
