YAUMU ʾS-SABUʿ (يوم السبع)
Definition and Significance
YAUMU ʾS-SABUʿ (يوم السبع), translating to “The Day of Sabuʿ,” is a term mentioned in Islamic tradition. It appears notably in the following Hadith reported in the Mishkātu ʾl-Maṣābiḥ (book xxiv, chapter 16):
<p>“Abū Hurairah says, ‘Whilst a man was with his goats, behold a wolf came in amongst them, and took a goat; and the man released it. And the wolf said to the man, ‘Who is to guard these goats on the day of Sabuʿ, when there will be no shepherd but me.’ And the people said, ‘The wolf speaks.’ And the Prophet said, ‘I believe that the wolf did speak.’ Abū Bakr and ʿUmar also said so.’”</p>
This passage suggests a day when unusual or supernatural events occur, exemplified by a talking wolf.
Etymology
- Arabic: يوم السبع (Yaumu ʾs-Sabuʿ)
- Yaum (يوم): Day
- Sabuʿ (سبع): Typically interpreted as “seventh” or relating to the number seven. However, in this context, it may also be related to the root meaning “predator” or referring to a specific event or time period.
Interpretations
ʿAbdu ʾl-Ḥaqq, a well-regarded Islamic scholar, mentioned that there are differing opinions on the exact meaning of the “Day of Sabuʿ”:
- Day of Insurrection: Some scholars suggest it refers to a day of significant upheaval or revolt.
- Ancient Arabian Festival: Others argue it was a festival observed by pre-Islamic Arabs when flocks were left to graze freely without shepherds.
Cultural Context
The story presented in the Hadith emphasizes the miraculous nature of certain events endorsed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), where even animals can communicate under divine will. It reflects the deep belief in the occurrences of extraordinary events within Islamic tradition and their acceptance by crucial companions of the Prophet, such as Abū Bakr and ʿUmar ibn al-Khattāb.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Mishkāt al-Maṣābīḥ” by Al-Khatib Al-Tabrizi
- “Kitab al-Tawhid” by Ibn Khuzaymah
- “The Collection of Authentic Hadith - Sahih al-Bukhari” by Imam Bukhari
- “Hadith Literature: Its Origin, Development and Special Features” by Muhammed Zubayr Siddiqi
Takeaways
- YAUMU ʾS-SABUʿ represents significant and often miraculous events within Islamic tradition.
- There is scholarly debate on its exact meaning, adding richness to Islamic theological and historical analyses.
- The tradition underscores the acceptance of miraculous events as a part of the broader context of faith and divine will.
Conclusion
Understanding YAUMU ʾS-SABUʿ requires exploring various interpretations and acknowledging its place within the broader Islamic tradition. Whether it signifies a day of significant events or an ancient festival, its mention in Hadith literature highlights its importance and the belief in extraordinary occurrences attributive to divine intervention.
