Raqabah (رقبة)
Definition
Raqabah (رقبة), which literally translates to “The Neck,” primarily refers to a captive or enslaved person in the Islamic context. In the Qurʾān, the term is used to denote a slave who can be freed as an act of atonement or as a religious obligation. Additionally, in certain cultural contexts, particularly in India, the term has been extended to denote an enclosed area of land.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: رقبة
- Turkish: Köle (for slave), Boyun (literal translation of neck)
The word “raqabah” in Arabic specifically denotes the “neck” and by extension came to symbolize a person who is enslaved, signifying their vulnerability and subjugation.
Qur’anic Significance
In the Qur’anic verse Sūrah An-Nisa (4:94), the term ‘raqabah’ is utilized to highlight the liberation of a believing slave as a form of expiation:
<p>“Whosoever kills a believer by mistake, then let him free a believing neck.”</p>
Here the phrase “free a believing neck” metaphorically refers to liberating a believing slave, emphasizing the significance and virtue of emancipation in Islamic teachings.
Cultural Context
In India, ‘raqabah’ can also refer to an enclosed piece of land. This is an example of how Islamic terminology can adapt to different cultural settings while retaining its original essence.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Spirit of Islamic Law” by Bernard G. Weiss
- “Slavery and Islam” by Jonathan A. C. Brown
- “The Qur’an: A New Annotated Translation” by Arthur J. Droge
- “Islamic Jurisprudence: An International Perspective” by C. G. Weeramantry
Takeaways
- The term ‘raqabah’ underscores the importance placed on human dignity and the moral imperative of freeing those who are oppressed or enslaved.
- Its application in Islamic law reflects the broader ethical goals of justice and compassion.
- Understanding ‘raqabah’ provides insights into the Qur’anic worldview regarding atonement and social responsibility.
Conclusion
‘Raqabah’ serves as a powerful term in Islamic theology and jurisprudence, emphasizing the ethical principles of justice, mercy, and the liberation of the oppressed. Its usage both in the Qur’an and in cultural contexts underscores its multifaceted importance in Muslim societies.
By exploring terms like ‘raqabah,’ one gains a deeper understanding of the values and principles that underpin Islamic thought and practice.
