Qit̤fīr (قطفير)
Definition
Qit̤fīr (قطفير) - Qit̤fīr, also referenced as Potiphar, is a character alluded to in the Qur’an and associated Islamic commentaries. He is noted as “the man from Egypt who bought him” (Yusuf/Joseph), and he plays a significant role in the narrative of Prophet Joseph (Yusuf) in Islamic tradition.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: قطفير (Qit̤fīr)
- Turkish: Potifar
The name Qit̤fīr is derived from the story of Joseph (Yusuf) in Islamic tradition and is linked to the name Potiphar mentioned in the Biblical account. In the Qur’an, Potiphar is referred to as simply “the man from Egypt who had bought him” without directly naming him, but Islamic commentators like Al-Baiẓāwī identify him as Qit̤fīr.
Qur’anic Reference
The primary reference to Qit̤fīr in the Qur’an is in:
- Surah Yusuf, 12:21: “And the one from Egypt who bought him said to his wife, ‘Make his stay (among us) honorable. Perhaps he might benefit us, or we might adopt him as a son.’ Thus did We establish Joseph in the land.”
In Islamic tradition, this verse and the subsequent narrative highlight the significance of Qit̤fīr in Joseph’s life, setting the stage for future events that unfold in Prophet Joseph’s story.
Islamic Commentary
Prominent Islamic commentator Al-Baiẓāwī elaborates on the identity of “the man from Egypt,” specifying his name as Qit̤fīr. This detail connects Islamic interpretations with the Biblical narrative, where Potiphar is a key figure in the story of Joseph.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The Story of Joseph in the Quran” by Humera T. Qadri
- “Prophet Joseph: His Story, His Message, and His Mission” by Mouton White
- “The Quranic Story of Joseph” by Parwez Yousafzai
- “Baiḍawī’s Commentary on Sūrah Yusuf” translated by G. F. Haddad
Takeaways
- Qit̤fīr (قطفير) is an essential figure in the story of Prophet Joseph in Islam.
- He is identified in Islamic tradition as Potiphar from the Biblical narrative.
- His role is described in the Qur’an and further clarified by Islamic commentators.
- Understanding Qit̤fīr’s character helps enhance comprehension of Prophet Joseph’s trials and journey.
Conclusion
The figure of Qit̤fīr in the Qur’anic narrative highlights the interconnectedness of Islamic and Biblical stories and deepens the appreciation of Prophet Joseph’s remarkable journey. Through characters like Qit̤fīr, we gain insights into the broader historical and theological context within which these narratives are situated in Islamic tradition.
