Sawāʾīm (سوايم)
Definition
Sawāʾīm (سوايم) is the plural form of Sāʾimah (سائمة), an Arabic term used to describe flocks and herds that are grazing. In the context of Islamic jurisprudence, Sawāʾīm refers specifically to livestock for which zakāt, or almsgiving, must be collected.
Etymology
The term Sawāʾīm originates from:
- Arabic: سوايم (Sawāʾīm), which is the plural of سائمة (Sāʾimah)
- Turkish Translation: Sā’ime atlar (Sā’ime animals)
Role in Islamic Obligations
Zakāt on Livestock
Within the framework of Islamic law (Shari’ah), zakāt is a mandatory form of charity that includes a certain portion of wealth that must be given to those in need. This obligation extends to livestock, and the specific category of animals known as Sawāʾīm—those that graze in an open field. According to Islamic finance rules, zakāt is collected annually if an individual’s livestock meets certain qualifiers concerning number and type:
- Camels, cattle, sheep, and goats: Various qualification thresholds and rates are specified for different types of livestock.
Qur’anic References and Hadith
The concept of zakāt finds its foundation in both the Qur’an and Hadith. While specific references to Sawāʾīm might not be explicitly outlined in the Qur’an, Hadith literature provides extensive guidelines regarding the wealth types subject to zakāt:
Islamic Texts for Reference:
- Qur’an: Numerous verses including Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177), Surah At-Taubah (9:103)
- Hadith Collections: Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim (collections within chapters of zakāt rules)
Books for Further Studies
- “Al-Muwatta” by Imam Malik
- Details on zakāt obligations and livestock rulings.
- “Fiqh al-Zakāh: A Comparative Study” by Yusuf al-Qaradawi
- Comprehensive exploration of zakāt’s role and application in Islamic law.
- “Islamic Jurisprudence” by Mohammad Hashim Kamali
- A broader view on Islamic legal principles including zakāt.
Takeaways
- Grazing Livestock: Sawāʾīm refers to grazing animals for which zakāt must be paid.
- Zakāt Qualification: Specific rules pertain to different livestock types, ensuring fair calculation and collection in the agricultural and pastoral economies.
- Islamic Legal Tradition: Understanding zakāt on livestock helps appreciate the comprehensive approach of Islamic financial ethics.
Conclusion
The term Sawāʾīm encapsulates an essential aspect of Islamic economic systems by ensuring wealth distribution through mandatory charitable giving. By focusing on grazing animals, Islamic law highlights the integration of agricultural practices within its broader ethical framework. Further research in classical Islamic texts enriches the understanding of this duty and its implications for contemporary Muslim societies.
