Manumission (ʿItq) in Islam
Definition
Manumission, known as ʿItq (عتق) in Arabic, refers to the act of freeing a slave. In the context of Islamic doctrine, manumission holds significant ethical and spiritual importance, representing a compassionate act of faith and social justice.
Etymology
The term ʿItq (عتق) is derived from the Arabic root ع - ت - ق (ʿ – t – q), which generally means “to emancipate” or “to set free.” It implies a transition from a state of bondage to freedom, highlighting the transformation that manumission embodies.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: عتق (ʿItq)
- Turkish: Azat etme
Significance in Islamic Tradition
Islamic teachings emphasize the significance of manumission, viewing it as a meritorious deed. Several key Islamic texts and principles underscore the importance of freeing slaves:
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Qur’anic Guidance: The Qur’an advocates for the humane treatment of slaves and encourages freeing them as a righteous act. For instance, Allah states in the Qur’an:
<p>“But those who cannot afford [to marry] should be abstinent until Allah enriches them out of His grace. And if those whom your hands rightfully possess desire a contract [of emancipation], make such contracts with them if you recognize some good in them, and give them from the wealth of Allah which He has given you.” (Qur’an, 24:33)</p>
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Prophet Muhammad’s Sayings (Hadith): Numerous Hadiths from Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advocate the freeing of slaves. For example, he is reported to have said:
<p>“Whoever frees a Muslim slave, Allah will deliver from the Hellfire equal to every limb of his.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)</p>
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Legal and Ethical Framework: Islamic law, or Sharia, includes detailed rulings about the rights of slaves and stipulates conditions under which they should be freed. Manumission could be mandated as expiation (kaffara) for certain sins or encouraged through incentives like the promise of divine reward.
Role in Context of Slavery and Freedom
Historically, manumission in Islamic societies functioned both as an ethical imperative and a legal framework. Slaves had defined pathways to earn their freedom, often through labor contracts known as mukataba, where a slave could essentially buy their own freedom under agreed terms with their master. This system highlighted the balance between social harmony and individual rights that Islamic law sought to achieve.
Books for Further Studies
- “Slavery and Islam” by Jonathan A.C. Brown: This comprehensive text details the historical and theological contexts of slavery in the Islamic world.
- “Slavery and Emancipation in Islamic East Africa: From Honor to Respectability” by Elisabeth McMahon: This book explores the dynamics of slavery and its eventual abolition in an Islamic cultural context.
- “The Quest for Justice in Middle Eastern Societies: Histories of Emancipation and Freedom” edited by Iris Agmon and Ali Al-Tikriti: This collection offers broad insights into manumission and broader justice movements.
Takeaways
- ʿItq (Manumission) is a deeply respected and encouraged practice in Islam.
- Islamic law and teachings provide a comprehensive framework for the humane treatment and eventual freeing of slaves.
- The act of freeing a slave is seen not just as a social duty but a spiritual act with significant religious merit.
Conclusion
Manumission, or ʿItq, underscores the Islamic commitment to human dignity, social justice, and ethical conduct. As both a legal practice and a moral imperative, it illustrates the faith’s emphasis on compassion and freedom, reflecting core Islamic values of mercy and righteousness.
Understanding concepts like ʿItq enriches comprehension of Islamic ethics and history, providing valuable insights into the faith’s foundational principles of justice and mercy.
