Nārāwā

Nārāwā (ناروا‎)

Definition

Nārāwā (ناروا‎) is a Persian term meaning “unlawful” or “forbidden.” It is used to describe actions, behaviors, or items that are explicitly prohibited by the Qur’an and the Hadith. In Islamic jurisprudence, the term corresponds closely with the Arabic word Ḥarām (حرام).

Etymology

• Arabic Translation: ناروا (Nārāwā)
• Turkish Translation: Yasa Dışı/Uygunsuz
• Roots and Origin: The term “Nārāwā” is derived from Persian, influenced by its usage in contexts that relate to Islamic law and ethics. Its Arabic equivalent is “Ḥarām,” both signifying actions or things that are explicitly forbidden by Islamic teachings.

Context and Usage

Nārāwā is commonly used in Persian-speaking communities and Islamic legal discussions to indicate prohibitions outlined in sacred Islamic texts. These prohibitions often extend to dietary laws, financial transactions, social behaviors, and religious practices.

Qur’anic References

1. Quran 5:3:

   <p>&ldquo;Forbidden to you [for food] are: dead meat, blood, the flesh of swine, and that on which hath been invoked the name of other than Allah&hellip;&rdquo;</p>

2. Quran 2:173:

   <p>&ldquo;He hath only forbidden you dead meat, and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that on which any other name hath been invoked besides that of Allah&hellip;&rdquo;</p>

Hadith References

The Hadith literature provides further elaborations and narrations on what constitutes Nārāwā (or Ḥarām):

1. Sahih Bukhari:

   <p>&ldquo;The lawful is clear and the unlawful is clear, and between them are ambiguous matters of which many people have no knowledge. So he who avoids these ambiguous matters clears himself in regard to his religion and his honor.&rdquo;</p>

Comparison with Ḥarām

While “Nārāwā” is a Persian term, “Ḥarām” is its Arabic equivalent, carrying the same meaning within Islamic law. Both words are crucial in delineating the boundaries of lawful (Ḥalāl) and unlawful (Ḥarām/Nārāwā) actions, contributing to ethical and moral discourse in Islam.

Books for Further Studies

1. “An Introduction to Islamic Law” by Wael B. Hallaq: This book offers insight into the principles of Islamic jurisprudence, including the concepts of Halal and Haram.
2. “The Rights of God: Islam, Human Rights, and Comparative Ethics” by Irene Oh: This book provides a comprehensive understanding of divine law in Islam, including what constitutes Haram/Nārāwā.
3. “Islamic Ethics of Life: Abortion, War, and Euthanasia” edited by Jonathan E. Brockopp: This volume illuminates a variety of ethical discussions in Islam, helpful for understanding prohibitions like Nārāwā.

Takeaways

• Nārāwā signifies actions or items forbidden in Islam, corresponding to the Arabic term Ḥarām.
• This term is essential for understanding moral, ethical, and legal guidelines within Islamic teachings.
• By referring to the Qur’an and Hadith, Muslims can discern what is considered Nārāwā.

Conclusion

In Islamic jurisprudence, understanding distinctions between what is lawful (Ḥalāl) and unlawful (Ḥarām or Nārāwā) is paramount. Recognizing these key terms within respective linguistic contexts enriches the comprehension of Islamic ethical and legal frameworks, guiding Muslims in their daily lives.