Jihāz (جهاز‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Usage in Islam

Explore the term 'Jihāz,' its meanings in Islamic culture, and its practical applications. Understand its relevance in a wedding context as well as in funerary practices.

Jihāz (جهاز‎)

Definition

Jihāz (جهاز‎) primarily refers to two distinct items within Islamic culture:

  1. Wedding Trousseau: The term is applied to the collection of garments and furniture that a Muslim bride brings to her husband’s home upon marriage. These items remain the property of the wife.
  2. Funerary Shroud: Jihāz can also denote the shroud used for wrapping the body of a deceased Muslim, used during Islamic burial rites.

Etymology

The Arabic term جهاز‎ (jihāz) is derived from the root “ج-ه-ز” (j-h-z), which generally relates to the concept of preparation or furnishing. This etymology highlights the preparedness or equipment associated with both marriages and funerals.

In Turkish, the term is similarly presented as “cihaz” though contextually it adapts to the same meanings as in Arabic.

Cultural Significance and Usage

Wedding Trousseau

In a marriage context, the jihāz is an important cultural practice. Traditionally, the bride’s family prepares a collection of clothes, household items, jewelry, and furniture for the newlyweds. These items serve to establish the new household and symbolize the bride’s status and family contributions.

  • Islamic Legal Reference: According to the Hidāyah (a classic Hanafi legal text), the jihāz remains the possession of the wife even after marriage. This practice underscores the financial security and autonomy granted to Muslim women.

Funerary Shroud

In the context of Islamic funerary customs, jihāz refers to the shroud, often called kafan, used to wrap the deceased. This shroud is a simple, plain cloth that reflects the Islamic emphasis on modesty and equality in death.

  • Islamic Legal Practice: The shroud should cover the entire body and is generally made of white cotton, symbolizing purity and the return to a state of natural simplicity before God.

Books for Further Study

  • “Hidāyah” by Burhan al-Din al-Marghinani: An essential Hanafi legal text discussing various aspects of Islamic law, including marital and funerary practices.
  • “The Book of Marriage (Kitab al-Nikah)” from Sahih al-Bukhari: Provides Hadith (Prophetic traditions) on marriage customs and regulations.
  • “Islamic Funerary Practices” by Jane Idleman Smith and Yvonne Yazbeck Haddad: Offers a comprehensive overview of Islamic burial customs.

Takeaways and Conclusion

The term jihāz captures key cultural and religious aspects of Islamic life, from marriage preparations to death rituals. Understanding its dual meanings provides insight into the values of preparedness, modesty, and respect for both life’s beginning anew and its end.

Conclusion

Jihāz stands as a multifaceted term that spans crucial life events in Islamic culture, embedding deep-seated traditions and values within its practice. Whether as a wedding trousseau or a funerary shroud, it highlights a sense of responsibility, preparation, and adherence to Islamic principles across significant life milestones.

For a deeper dive into each aspect of jihāz, consult the recommended readings and consider both historical and contemporary interpretations to appreciate its full cultural and religious significance.

Dictionary of Islam

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