SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI (سبع المثانى)
Definition and Etymology
SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI (سبع المثانى) literally means “The Seven Repetitions” in Arabic. This term is attributed to the introductory chapter of the Qur’an, which is known as Surah Al-Fatiha (الفاتحة).
- Arabic: سبع المثانى (Sabʿu al-Mathani)
- Turkish: Yedi Tekrar
Significance in Islamic Context
The term SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI is significant because of its usage as a name for Surah Al-Fatiha by Prophet Muhammad. The chapter holds a unique place within Islamic worship and beliefs.
Reasons for the Title
Three primary reasons are assigned for this title:
- Seven Verses Structure: Surah Al-Fatiha comprises seven verses, which are believed to have been revealed twice over.
- Repeated Words: It contains seven significant words that appear twice:
- Allāh (الله) - God
- Raḥmān (الرحمن) - Compassionate
- Raḥīm (الرحيم) - Merciful
- Iyākā (إياك) - Thee and to Thee
- Ṣīrāt̤ (صراط) - Way
- ʿAlaihim (عليهم) - To whom and with whom
- G͟hair (غير) - Not, and Lā (لا) - Not
- Recitation in Prayers: The seven verses are generally recited twice during the ordinary prayers (Ṣalāh).
The sources for these reasons include Majmaʿu ʾl-Biḥār and the works of ʿAbdu ʾl-Ḥaqq.
Scholarly Sources
- Majmaʿu ’l-Biḥār and works of ʿAbdu ’l-Ḥaqq
- Mishkāt al-Masābīḥ, specifically book viii, chapter i, which discusses the title’s origination and significance as per the sayings of Prophet Muhammad.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “An Introduction to the Qur’an” by Abdullah Saeed
- “Understanding the Qur’an: Themes and Style” by Muhammad Abdel Haleem
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Takeaways
- SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI symbolizes the unique and respected position of Surah Al-Fatiha in Islamic faith and practices.
- The title reflects both the structural beauty and spiritual gravity of the Surah.
- Understanding the reasons behind the title aids in appreciating the profound layers of Islamic worship and the textual reverence of the Qur’an.
Conclusion
The term SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI serves as a testament to the intricate and profound nature of the Qur’an, particularly Surah Al-Fatiha. Its repetitious and structural attributes provide insight into why it is esteemed and how central it is to Muslim worship and recitation. For those delving into Qur’anic studies, understanding such terms deepens one’s appreciation and comprehension of Islamic texts and rituals.
