Khilʿah (خِلْعَة) or Khilʿat (خِلْعَة)
Definition
Khilʿah (Arabic: خِلْعَة) or Khilʿat (Turkish: Hilat) refers to a dress of honor presented by a ruler to a subordinate or an individual of distinction as a mark of recognition and honor. Historically, the presentation of a khilʿah could include not just a garment but also arms, horses, or even elephants, symbolizing a comprehensive gift of respect and esteem.
Etymology
The term Khilʿah has its origins in the Arabic root “خ-ل-ع” (kh-l-ʿ) which pertains to “removal or taking off” and by extension, to “granting or bestowing an honor.” It indicates the act of bestowing something valuable that one would normally disrobe oneself to give to another as a sign of deep respect and distinction.
Cultural Significance
Presenting a khilʿah held high ceremonial value within Islamic and pre-Islamic cultures. It was often part of significant events such as royal ceremonies, triumphal parades, and appointments to high office. The practice was prevalent not just in the Arab world but also in the broader Islamic empires, including the Mughal and Ottoman Empires, indicating widespread acceptance and continuity of this tradition across regions and dynasties.
Components of a Complete Khilʿah
A complete khilʿah typically comprised several items:
- Garment: The central piece, usually of luxurious fabric such as silk or brocade, often richly embroidered.
- Arms: Such as a sword or a dagger, signifying martial valor.
- Horse or Elephant: High-status animals that symbolized mobility, power, and status.
- Other Accoutrements: Additional accessories such as belts, shoes, or headgear, often of significant beauty and craft.
Historical Context
Khilʿah has been prominently noted in historical texts and artifacts. Patronage through the gifting of a khilʿah was a political tool that strengthened alliances, rewarded loyalty, and signified the magnanimity of the ruler. Notable instances include the practice in the Mughal Empire where the Emperor would bestow a khilʿah upon governors and high officials during their elevation in rank.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Code of Khilʿat: The Fatimid Policy of Honouring State Officials and a Commemorative ‘Khilʿa” by Fahdm Qurishi.
- “Gifts of Clothing in Medieval Islamic and Byzantine Political Cultures” by Alicia Walker.
- “The Mughal Empire” by John F. Richards, which discusses the societal and political customs of the Mughal Empire.
Takeaways and Conclusion
- Khilʿah is a testament to the rich tradition of honor and respect within Islamic culture.
- Its presentation holds deep ceremonial and socio-political meaning.
- The tradition highlights the cultural interplay across varying Islamic empires, contributing to its longevity as a practice.
Understanding Khilʿah not only offers insights into Islamic traditions but also the broader practices of gift-giving and honor within historical governance structures.
By delving into its etymology and historical applications, one can appreciate the cultural and political nuances embedded in the tradition of presenting a khilʿah, a practice that vividly illustrates the intertwining of respect, ceremony, and governance in Islamic history.
