MUḤARRAMĀT (محرمات) in Islam
Definition
MUḤARRAMĀT (محرمات) are those persons or categories with whom it is not lawful to contract a marriage according to Islamic law. The term is derived from the singular Muḥarramah (محرمة), which means “prohibited” or “forbidden.” In family law, Muḥarramāt outlines specific familial relationships that are considered impermissible for marriage.
Etymology
The word Muḥarramāt originates from the Arabic root ḥ-r-m (ح-ر-م), which conveys the sense of being forbidden or sacred.
- Muḥarramāt (محرمات)
- Arabic: محرمات
- Singular: Muḥarramah (محرمة)
- Root: ḥ-r-m (ح-ر-م), meaning “to be forbidden” or “sacred”
In Turkish, a similar term used is “mahremler”, which directly translates to “intimate kin” or those who are unmarriageable due to close blood relations.
Categories of Muḥarramāt
The categories of individuals with whom marriage is prohibited can be broadly divided into:
- Blood Relations (Nasab): Close blood relatives such as parents, children, siblings, aunts, uncles, and grandparents.
- Marriage Relations (Musaharah): This includes in-laws through marriage. For example, a man’s mother-in-law or daughter-in-law.
- Wet-Nursing (Raḍāʿa): Individuals with whom a person shares a breastfeeding relationship, making them foster-siblings or foster-mothers, which makes marriage to them impermissible.
- Extended Relations: Certain extended relatives through both nasab and marriage may also be deemed impermissible, reinforcing the boundaries to preserve family sanctity.
Significance in Islam
The concept of Muḥarramāt plays a crucial role in delineating the boundaries of lawful marriage in Islam, ensuring clarity in lineage and inheritance, and maintaining social and familial responsibilities. It is guided by principles outlined in the Quran and Hadith.
Qur’anic References
The Quran provides detailed instructions regarding Muḥarramāt in:
- Surah An-Nisa (4:23-24): Lists women who are permanently prohibited for marriage due to blood or marital relationships.
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:221): Advises against marrying polytheistic individuals.
Importance in Islamic Law (Sharia)
In Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), the rules regarding muḥarramāt are critical for the correct implementation of family law. Marriage contracts in Islam (nikah) must adhere strictly to these prohibitions to ensure that the marriages are considered valid.
Further Studies
- “Fiqh al-Sunnah” by Sayyid Sabiq: A comprehensive treatise on Islamic jurisprudence covering family law.
- “The Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam” by Yusuf al-Qaradawi: Discusses in detail the prohibited relationships and other aspects of Islamic law.
- “Reliance of the Traveller” translated by Nuh Ha Mim Keller: A classical manual on Shafi’i jurisprudence including detailed chapters on marriage.
- Schacht, Joseph. “An Introduction to Islamic Law.”: Offers foundational knowledge on various aspects of Islamic law including family legislation.
Takeaways
- Muḥarramāt categorically defines who a Muslim cannot marry according to Islamic law.
- These restrictions ensure clear familial lines and uphold moral and ethical standards within the community.
- Understanding Muḥarramāt is crucial for practicing marriage laws and upholding Islamic family values.
Conclusion
The category of Muḥarramāt in Islamic law provides a necessary framework to ensure the sanctity of marriage and family. By adhering to these divine legislations, Muslims maintain a structured and ethical family environment, preserving the integrity and lineage dictated by Islamic teachings.
