Sodom in Islamic Context
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: سَدُوم (Sadūm)
- Hebrew: סְדוֹם (Sedōm)
- Turkish: Sodom
Introduction
Sodom, or Sadūm (سدوم) in Arabic, is a city prominently associated with Prophet Lot (Lūṭ) in Islamic tradition. Though not explicitly named in the Qur’an, it is indirectly referred to through the “overturned cities” in several verses, such as Surah At-Tawbah (9:71) and Surah Al-Haqqah (69:9).
Qur’anic References
- Surah 9:71 (At-Tawbah)
- Surah 69:9 (Al-Haqqah)
The Qur’an uses indirect references to express the fate of Sodom and the sinful behavior of its inhabitants. These cities were destroyed by divine punishment, highlighting the importance of moral uprightness and adherence to divine commandments.
Linguistic Note
The Qāmūs, an authoritative Arabic lexicon, suggests that the city’s name might more accurately be Ẕaẕūm. However, “Sodom” (Sadūm) remains the prevalent term used in both religious and colloquial settings.
Ethical and Legal Context
In Islamic jurisprudence, the term “Sodom” is closely linked to the acts of sodomy or liwāt̤ah (لِوَاطَة). This behavior is unequivocally condemned and considered a grave sin in Islam. Sunni and Shia scholars derive rulings from Hadith literature and the consensus (Ijma) of early Islamic jurists.
- Discussion in Legal Books:
- Hamilton’s Hidayah (Vol. II, p. 26) discusses the legal ramifications of pæderastia, stipulating severe penalties in accordance with Islamic law.
Historical Context
Historically, Sodom’s destruction is used as a cautionary tale to emphasize the consequences of unethical and immoral behavior. The prevalence of this vice and its perception in Muslim societies have been subjects of both religious and sociological study.
Associated Vice: Pæderastia
The act of pæderastia, though known historically to have occurred, is sternly condemned in Islamic teachings. Notable studies such as Vambéry’s “Sketches of Central Asia” (p. 192) provide insights into its historical presence in Muslim societies.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The Stories of the Prophets” by Ibn Kathir
- “Hamilton’s Hidayah” (Vol. II)
- “Sketches of Central Asia” by Ármin Vámbéry
- “A History of the Prophets of Islam” by Suzanne Haneef
Takeaway and Conclusion
The city of Sodom represents more than a historical location; it embodies profound ethical lessons and dire consequences of moral transgressions. Islamic teachings emphatically advocate for moral rectitude and caution against the vices associated with Sodom. Understanding this can provide deeper insights into the moral and ethical underpinnings of Islamic jurisprudence.
By exploring Sodom’s story and its references in Islamic texts, scholars and students can grasp the serious emphasis placed on morality within the Islamic tradition and the unwavering opposition to behaviors deemed sinful and unnatural by religious standards.
