Kitābī (كتابى)
Kitābī (كتابى) - A term used in Islam to refer to those who are considered as part of “Ahlu ʾl-Kitāb,” or the “People of the Book,” specifically Jews and Christians, who are believed to be in possession of the inspired word of God through their respective scriptures.
Etymology
The word “Kitābī” is derived from the Arabic word “kitāb” (كتاب), meaning “book,” with the suffix “-ī” indicating possession or association. Therefore, “Kitābī” literally translates to “one of the Book” or “possessor of the Book.”
Arabic: كتابى
Turkish: Kitâbî
Definition and Theological Context
In Islamic theology, the term “Kitābī” is primarily used to acknowledge Jews and Christians as recipients of divine scriptures. These groups are known as “Ahlu ʾl-Kitāb,” a Quranic term which underscores their shared spiritual heritage and recognition of sacred texts, albeit through different religious narratives and revelations.
Ahlu ʾl-Kitāb (People of the Book)
The concept of “Ahlu ʾl-Kitāb” plays a significant role in Islamic jurisprudence and interfaith relations. The recognition of Jews and Christians as Kitābī carries several implications:
- Respect for Scriptures: The Quran acknowledges that both Jews and Christians possess scriptures that are divinely revealed, such as the Torah and the Gospel.
- Legal Rulings: There are specific legal rulings in Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) concerning interactions and social contracts with Kitābī individuals. For example, Muslim men are permitted to marry women from “People of the Book.”
- Dawah and Dialogue: The Kitābī status facilitates inter-religious dialogue and underscores the monotheistic common ground shared between Muslims, Jews, and Christians.
Significance
The designation Kitābī marks an essential aspect of Muslim-Christian-Jewish relations, illustrating an avenue for mutual respect and understanding based on the shared belief in one God and the value of scripture.
Further Reading
For deeper understanding and exploration:
- “Muslim-Christian Relations: Past, Present, Future” by Frederick M. Denny and Rodney L. Petersen
- “The Quran and the Secular Mind: A Philosophy of Islam” by Shabbir Akhtar
- “Common Ground: Islam, Christianity, and Religious Pluralism” by Paul L. Heck
Takeaways
- Kitābī is a respectful acknowledgment of Jews and Christians as recipients of divine scriptures.
- The term fosters interfaith respect and has substantial implications in Islamic legal and theological discussions.
- Recognizing the shared heritage can strengthen interfaith dialogues based on mutual respect and understanding.
Conclusion
Understanding the term Kitābī and its implications enriches the comprehension of Islamic theology and its approach to Jews and Christians. This term not only underscores the shared monotheistic heritage but also provides a foundation for respectful and meaningful interfaith interactions.
