The Murjīyah: Division and Beliefs in Islamic Thought
The Murjīyah, often translated as the “Procrastinators,” is an Islamic sect with distinct views on faith and actions. This entry examines the different subgroups within the Murjīyah and their specific doctrinal beliefs. The term ‘Murjīyah’ derives from the Arabic word ‘رجاء’ (rajā) meaning “hope” or “postponement.” The Murjīyah are known for their lenient stance on certain theological matters, particularly related to faith and deeds.
1. T̤ārīqīyah (طاريقية)
This subgroup asserts that nothing is necessary but faith. They emphasize the importance of believing in God without underscoring the obligatory nature of actions.
2. Shāʾīyah (شائية)
According to the Shāʾīyah, repeating the Shahada (the Islamic creed) once is sufficient for salvation. Their emphasis is on verbal affirmation over continuous practice.
3. Rājīyah (راجية)
The Rājīyah believe that worship and good works are not essential to piety. They promote the view that intention and internal faith are paramount.
4. Shākkīyah (شاكّية)
The Shākkīyah hold that certainty in one’s faith is unattainable because faith is inherently spiritual. They stress the mysterious nature of faith.
5. Nāhīyah (ناهية)
This group posits that faith is equivalent to knowledge. They argue that those unaware of God’s commandments cannot possess true faith.
6. ʿAmalīyah (عماليّة)
ʿAmalīyah believe that faith is manifested in good works. They advocate that actions are an integral component of true faith.
7. Manqūṣīyah (منقوصية)
The Manqūṣīyah argue that faith can fluctuate—it can be more or less at different times. This reflects their perspective on the dynamic nature of belief.
8. Mustas̤nīyah (متسثنية)
Mustas̤nīyah express a cautious approach toward religious assurance, often stating “we are believers if God wills it.”
9. Ashʿarīyah (اشعرية)
Ashʿarīyah reject qiyās (analogical reasoning) in matters of faith, maintaining that rational deduction cannot grasp the divine truth.
10. Bidʿīyah (بِدْعيَة)
Bidʿīyah emphasize obedience to a ruler, even if the ruler’s orders are morally questionable. Their stance highlights the importance of political stability.
11. Mushabbihīyah (مشبوبة)
The Mushabbihīyah take the Qur’anic reference to God creating Adam in His own image literally. This interpretation ventures into anthropomorphic descriptions of the divine.
12. Ḥashawīyah (حشوية)
Ḥashawīyah see no distinction between wājib (mandatory), sunnah (Prophetic tradition), and mustaḥab (recommended actions) within Islamic law. They advocate for a more unified legal practice.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: Murjīyah (المرجئة)
- Turkish: Murcie
Suggested Books for Further Study
- The Theology of Unity by Muhammad Abduh
- Early Muslim Dogma by Michael Cook
- Islamic Theological Themes by John Renard
- The Formation of Islamic Theology by W. Madelung and P. Crone
Conclusion and Takeaways
The Murjīyah represent a significant historical perspective within Islamic thought, emphasizing different aspects of faith, knowledge, and actions. Their diverse subgroups reflect varying interpretations and priorities in religious practice and belief, embodying the rich tapestry of early Islamic theological discourse.
Understanding the Murjīyah’s doctrines aids in comprehending broader debates in Islamic theology and law, especially regarding the interplay of faith and deeds. It also shines a light on the complexities and evolutions of early Islamic sectarianism.
