Musallas (مثلث)
Definition
Musallas (مثلث), literally meaning “made into three, or into a third,” refers to an aromatic wine composed of new wine that is boiled down to a third of its initial volume and then mixed with sweet herbs. It is a term used in Islamic jurisprudence and cultural practices to describe a particular type of beverage.
Etymology
The term Musallas is derived from the Arabic root ثَلَثَ (thalatha), meaning “three.” The word مثلث (muthallath) translates to “triangular” or “made into a third,” indicating the process by which the wine is reduced to a third of its original quantity during preparation.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: مثلث (Musallas)
- Turkish: Üçgen şarap (literal translation as “triangular wine,” although the concept is not widespread in Turkish culture).
Preparation
Musallas is prepared by boiling new wine until it is reduced to a third of its original volume. Once reduced, it is mixed with various sweet herbs to enhance its flavor and aromatic qualities. This process not only concentrates the flavors but also changes the composition of the wine.
Legal and Cultural Implications
According to Abū Ḥanīfah, a prominent Islamic scholar and the founder of the Hanafi school of jurisprudence, Musallas is considered a lawful drink. This viewpoint is documented in the Hidāyah (vol. iv, p. 162), a renowned Hanafi legal text. However, it is essential to note that Islamic scholars and different schools of thought may have varying opinions on the consumption of beverages containing alcohol.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Hidayah: A Classic Manual of Hanafi Jurisprudence” by Al-Marghinani
- “Islamic Jurisprudence According to the Four Sunni Schools” by Abd al-Rahman al-Jaziri
- “Food, Farming, and Faith” by Gary W. Fick (for a broader understanding of food-related jurisprudence in Islam)
Takeaways
- Musallas is a specific type of aromatic wine prepared by boiling new wine to a third of its volume and mixing it with sweet herbs.
- The term is derived from the Arabic word for “three,” indicating the reduction process involved in its preparation.
- According to Abū Ḥanīfah in Hanafi jurisprudence, Musallas is considered a lawful drink, although opinions may vary among different Islamic schools of thought.
Conclusion
Understanding Musallas (مثلث) provides insight into the nuanced perspectives within Islamic jurisprudence concerning permissible and impermissible substances. The discussion of Musallas showcases the diversity of thought within Islamic law and emphasizes the importance of scholarly interpretation in determining cultural and legal norms.
For those interested in deepening their knowledge on this topic, exploring the suggested readings can provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal, theological, and cultural dimensions involved.
