TAʿALLUQ (تعلق‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Usage

TAʿALLUQ (تعلق‎)

Definition

TAʿALLUQ (تعلق‎): Literally translated as “that which is suspended.” In an administrative and historical context, the term refers to a division or district. In India, it signifies a district comprising multiple villages, for which a fixed amount of revenue is collected. The possession of these districts is typically hereditary, dependent upon the payment of the prescribed revenue.

Etymology

• Arabic: تعلق‎ (taʿalluq) – Derived from the root ʿalaqa, which means “to hang,” “to be attached,” or “to be suspended.”
• Alternative Transliterations: Taʿalluq, taluq, or talook.

Historical Context

The concept of taʿalluq was introduced to India by Muslim conquerors. It played a significant role in the administrative division of land and the collection of revenue.

Types of TAʿALLUQ

There are two primary types of taʿalluqs:

1. Huẓūrī (حضوري):

   • Derived from حضور‎ (huẓūr), meaning “the State.”
   • In this type, revenue is paid directly to the government.

2. Maẕkurī (مذكور‎):

   • Derived from مذكور‎ (maẕkūr), meaning “specified.”
   • In this structure, revenue is paid through a chief, who essentially farms the revenue.

Cultural and Administrative Significance

The implementation of taʿalluqs facilitated an organized and systematic method of revenue collection. It allowed for the efficient management of vast territories by delegating responsibilities to local chiefs and administrators.

Examples in Use

• Huẓūrī Taʿalluq: Direct governance by the state, often found in regions close to the central power.
• Maẕkurī Taʿalluq: Indirect governance, where local chieftains managed a set of villages and reported revenue to the state.

Turkish Translation

In Turkish, the term taʿalluq translates to “tâlülük” or simply as “mukaddimatı” although it’s less commonly used with the precise historical and administrative sense it holds in the Indian context.

Suggestion for Further Studies

For those interested in delving deeper into the subject, the following books and resources are highly recommended:

• “The Mughal Empire” by John F. Richards
• “The Cambridge Economic History of India” edited by Dharma Kumar"
• “Land Revenue Administration under the Mughals” by S. Nurul Hasan"

Key Takeaways

1. Definition: TAʿALLUQ refers to an administrative district comprising several villages.
2. Revenue Collection: The district revenue was either paid directly to the government or through a chief.
3. Historical Introduction: The concept was introduced to India by Muslim conquerors.
4. Types: Classified as Huẓūrī (state-administered) and Maẕkurī (chief-administered).
5. Significance: It played a crucial role in historical land management and revenue systems.

Conclusion

The term taʿalluq has a rich historical and administrative heritage, highlighting a sophisticated system of land management and revenue collection introduced by Muslim rulers in India. Understanding taʿalluq offers valuable insights into the intricacies of historical governance and the legacy of administrative practices in the Indian subcontinent.