Murtadd (مرتد)
Definition
A Murtadd (مرتد), in Islamic terminology, refers to an apostate; that is, a person who renounces Islam after having previously accepted it. Apostasy, or leaving the faith, is considered a serious offense in Islamic law and theology.
Etymology
The word Murtadd comes from the Arabic root ر ت د (r-t-d), which means “to turn back” or “to revert.” Hence, a Murtadd is someone who turns away from or reverts from their current faith, namely, Islam.
- Arabic: مرتد (Murtadd)
- Turkish: Mürted
Legal and Theological Ramifications
In classical Islamic jurisprudence, apostasy is addressed under Hudud (حدود) laws, which include punishments for crimes considered severe, such as theft and adultery. The punishment for apostasy can be severe, including the death penalty, though interpretations and applications differ among various schools of thought and between historical and contemporary contexts.
Key Points
- Definition: Apostate; a person who renounces Islam.
- Etymology: Derived from Arabic root ر ت د; meaning “to turn back.”
- Punishments: Historically severe, but interpretations vary.
- Contemporary Views: Modern scholars and human rights organizations are re-evaluating the concept in light of contemporary human rights norms.
Cultural and Historic Background
Historically, apostasy was not only seen as a religious violation but also as a form of treason, especially in early Islamic states where religion and state were closely intertwined. The concept of apostasy thus carried both spiritual and sociopolitical dimensions.
Suggested Books for Further Reading
- “Freedom of Religion, Apostasy, and Islam” by Abdullah Saeed and Hassan Saeed
- “Islamic Human Rights and the Elimination of Intolerance and Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief” by Natan Lerner
- “Punishment in Islamic Law: A Critique of the Hudud Bill of Kelantan” by Mohammad Hashim Kamali
Conclusion and Takeaways
Understanding Murtadd (مرتد) requires an appreciation of its theological roots, its legal implications, and its historical context. While traditional Islamic law prescribes severe penalties for apostasy, modern debates challenge these norms, calling for a re-interpretation in light of contemporary human rights principles.
References
- Islamic Jurisprudence: “Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanbali Schools”
- The Holy Qur’an: Various interpretations on faith and apostasy
- Hadith Collections: Discussions on apostasy and its repercussions
Understanding the concept of Murtadd offers profound insights into the complexities of Islamic theology, legal theory, and the evolving nature of religious freedom in modern contexts.
