Istis̤nāʾ (استثناء)
Definition and Usage
Istis̤nāʾ (استثناء), translated as “excepting” or “excluding,” refers to the practice of saying “If God will” (إن شاء الله, insha’Allah) when speaking about future actions or events. This expression underscores a fundamental Islamic belief in Divine Will and acknowledges human reliance on God’s decree.
Etymology
The term Istis̤nāʾ originates from the Arabic root س-ن-ي (s-n-y), meaning “to exclude” or “to make an exception.” The Arabic phrase استثناء conveys the idea of making conditional statements based on God’s will.
Qur’anic Foundation
The practice of Istis̤nāʾ is rooted in the Qur’anic injunction found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:23-24):
<p>“And never say about anything, ‘I will do that tomorrow,’ except [when adding], ‘If Allah wills.’ And remember your Lord when you forget [it] and say, ‘Perhaps my Lord will guide me to what is nearer than this to right conduct.’” (Qur’an 18:23-24)</p>
This verse emphasizes that all future actions are subject to God’s will, reminding Muslims to remain humble and dependent on Divine Providence.
Comparison with Christian Scripture
Istis̤nāʾ has a parallel in Christian teachings found in the Epistle of James in the New Testament:
<p>“Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’” (James 4:15)</p>
This similarity underscores a shared theological emphasis on human dependence on the Divine Will across Abrahamic faiths.
Cultural and Practical Significance
In everyday life, Muslims frequently use the phrase “Insha’Allah” in conversations about the future. This habitual expression serves to:
- Acknowledge God’s ultimate control and knowledge over future events.
- Foster a sense of humility and submission to God’s will.
- Build a cultural norm that emphasizes the uncertainty of future and the limitations of human planning.
Suggested Reading for Further Study
- “The Qur’an” translated by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem
- “The Heart of the Qur’an: An Introduction to Islamic Spirituality” by Lex Hixon
- “In the Shade of the Qur’an” by Sayyid Qutb
- “Islamic Theology and Philosophy: Studies in Honor of George F. Hourani” edited by Michael E. Marmura
Takeaways
- Istis̤nāʾ is a term that signifies the Islamic practice of acknowledging God’s will when planning future actions.
- The expression “Insha’Allah” is deeply rooted in Qur’anic teachings and is a vital part of Muslim daily vernacular.
- The concept resonates with similar ideas in Christian scripture, reflecting a shared Abrahamic theology of divine sovereignty and human humility.
Conclusion
Istis̤nāʾ (استثناء), or the practice of saying “If God will,” is integral to Islamic belief and practice. It reaffirms a Muslim’s faith in God’s omnipotence and nurtures a cultural habit of recognizing Divine Will in everyday life. Understanding and incorporating this practice provides valuable insights into Islamic spirituality and fosters a sense of humility and piety.
