SHAQQU ʾṢ-ṢADR (شق الصدر)
Definition and Description
SHAQQU ʾṢ-ṢADR (شق الصدر) is an Arabic term that translates literally to “the splitting open of the chest” or “the opening of the heart.” This phrase describes a miraculous event in Islamic tradition involving Prophet Muhammad.
Narrative in Islamic Tradition
According to an account related by Anas ibn Malik, the event occurred when Prophet Muhammad was a child. The Angel Gabriel is said to have approached Muhammad while he was playing with other boys. Gabriel seized him, laid him on the ground, and performed an extraordinary act of opening Muhammad’s chest. Gabriel removed a small bag of blood, declaring it to be the devil’s part, and then washed Muhammad’s heart with water from the Zamzam well. Gabriel subsequently sewed Muhammad’s chest back up. Anas recounts that he later saw the marks of the sewing on Muhammad’s chest. This narrative is found in Hadith collections, including the Mishkāt al-Maṣābīḥ (Book XXIV, Chapter VI).
Qur’anic Reference and Interpretations
Commentators such as al-Baiḍāwī, al-Kamālān, and Ḥusain have linked this event to the first verses of Sūrah Al-Inshirāḥ (Chapter 94) in the Qur’an:
<p>“Have We not opened your breast for you? And removed from you your burden, which weighed down your back?” (Qur’an, 94:1-3)</p>
While some interpretations consider this to be a metaphorical reference to the Prophet’s spiritual enlightenment and the alleviation of his burdens, others believe that this verse alludes to the miraculous event of SHAQQU ʾṢ-ṢADR, emphasizing its supernatural dimensions.
Etymology
The Arabic term شق الصدر (SHAQQU ʾṢ-ṢADR) is composed of two parts:
- شق (shaqq) meaning “splitting” or “rending open”
- الصدر (al-ṣadr) meaning “the chest” or “the heart”
In Turkish, the event is known as Göğsün Yarılması, translating similarly to “splitting of the chest.”
Significance and Interpretations
The story of SHAQQU ʾṢ-ṢADR holds great significance in Islamic theology and spirituality. It underlines the purification and special status of Prophet Muhammad, marking him as divinely protected and prepared for his prophetic mission. This event is often celebrated in Islamic literature and hadith collections as a miraculous precursor to Muhammad’s prophethood.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq: Provides a detailed biography of Muhammad, including various miraculous events.
- “The Sealed Nectar” by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri: A modern biography that discusses traditional accounts of Muhammad’s life.
- “The Qur’an and its Interpreters” by Mahmoud M. Ayoub: Explores various interpretations of crucial Qur’anic verses including those relating to SHAQQU ʾṢ-ṢADR.
Takeaways and Conclusion
SHAQQU ʾṢ-ṢADR (شق الصدر) represents a significant event in Islamic tradition, symbolizing divine intervention and the purification of Prophet Muhammad. Interpretations vary between literal and metaphorical understandings, enriching the theological and spiritual discourse within Islam. This narrative emphasizes the sanctity and preordained role of Muhammad as the final prophet. Understanding this event requires delving into both the Qur’anic exegesis and hadith literature, providing a comprehensive insight into its multifaceted meanings and implications.
Conclusion
The story of SHAQQU ʾṢ-ṢADR encapsulates a profound narrative within Islamic tradition, one that highlights the extraordinary nature of Prophet Muhammad’s mission. Whether viewed as a literal miracle or a metaphorical explanation of spiritual enlightenment, it remains a pivotal element of Islamic heritage and theology.
