Qainuqāʿ (قينقاع)
Introduction
The Qainuqāʿ (قينقاع) was a Jewish tribe residing near al-Madīnah (Medina) during the time of the Prophet Muḥammad. Known for their initial neutrality, the tribe eventually faced conflict and siege, leading to their exile in the second year of the Hijrah (migration of Muslims from Mecca to Medina). This entry expands on the tribe’s history, interactions with early Muslims, and their lasting significance in Islamic history.
Etymology
- Arabic: قينقاع (transliteration: Qainuqāʿ)
- Turkish: “Kaynuka kabilesi”
Historical Context
- Location: The Qainuqāʿ tribe was situated near the city of al-Madīnah, which was a significant trading hub and cultural crossroads at the time.
- Relationships: Initially, the Qainuqāʿ tribe maintained a neutral stance towards the Muslims and were part of a pact that helped partially ensure peaceful co-existence.
- Conflict: Tensions escalated, leading to a siege by Prophet Muḥammad in the second year of the Hijrah (approximately 624 CE). Hostilities broke out due to alleged breaches of the pact and provocations from the tribe.
The Siege and Exile
- Siege: Muḥammad and his followers besieged the Qainuqāʿ stronghold. Following their defeat, the members of the tribe were given the choice of conversion or exile.
- Exile: Most of the Qainuqāʿ were expelled from al-Madīnah and relocated to areas in present-day Syria.
Sources and References
- Primary Source: The key historical account of the Qainuqāʿ is captured in early Islamic literature and the sīrah (biographies of Prophet Muhammad), including the works of classical historians such as Ibn Ishaq.
- Further Study: One notable reference is William Muir’s “Life of Mahomet”, particularly volume iii, page 134, which provides an English-language perspective on these events.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq - A foundational text providing detailed narratives about the early Islamic period.
- “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings - A biography that offers context and interpretation based on primary sources.
- “The History of al-Tabari, Volume 7: The Foundation of the Community” translated by William Montgomery Watt - An academic resource with detailed historical events.
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Qainuqāʿ tribe’s story is a significant episode in early Islamic history, illustrating the complexities of religious, social, and political dynamics in 7th-century Arabia. Their experience underscores the critical challenges faced by nascent Muslim communities in seeking coexistence with other groups. Understanding such historical interactions is essential for a comprehensive grasp of Islamic history and the formative years of the Muslim ummah (community).
By delving into the historical context and primary sources, this entry provides a nuanced picture of the Qainuqāʿ and their place in the broader narrative of Prophet Muḥammad’s life and early Islamic expansion.
Conclusion
In learning about the Qainuqāʿ, one gains insight into the complexities and tensions of early Islamic society and the strategic decisions made by the Prophet Muḥammad. This knowledge not only enriches our understanding of Islamic history but also highlights the enduring significance of these ancient events in shaping contemporary Islamic thought and relations.
