From: "lamorena61@yahoo.com" <lamorena61@yahoo.com>
To: mlalahoi@googlegroups.com
Sent: Mon, July 26, 2010 7:39:04 PM
Subject: Re: The Quran and verses that needs clarification
The problem here is the translation of the Quranic classical Arabic to the simple english word "beat"
The following should allow you to put to rest, the gross misconception that Islam allows a Man to beat his wife, once and for all!
Question: Could you please tell me why the Quran tells men to "beat them" meaning their wives? (chapter 4, verse 34) Answer: Thank you for asking about Islam. It is our commitment to try our best to provide answers to questions to the best of our ability. However, sometimes we come across questions for which we do not have answers. In this case we will refer you to others who may be able to provide you with proper answers. Please be aware that we as Muslims, must never lie about anything, especially our religion. Secondly, we do have the original text of the Quran and the preserved teachings of Muhammad, peace be upon him. This enables us to verify exactly what was said, intended and taught by Muhammad, peace be upon him, as being the religion of Islam. Third, I would like to remind myself and all who read this in the future that not all questions are purely questions. Some contain statements and implications, that may or may not be true. Finally, it is important to keep in mind anytime we discover something in the answers to actually be better than what we already have, we should be committed to change our position and accept that which is true over that which is false and take that which is better for that which is inferior. After taking all of the above into consideration, if we find that the answer to this question provides us with a better approach to understanding what Almighty God has provided us with as a way of life on this earth and in the Next Life, we should then make the logical decision to begin to worship Him on His terms. Having said that, let us now look to the particular verse in question in the original text (Arabic), followed by the phonetic sounds in Latin letters and then finally, followed by a translation of the meaning to the English language by experts in both Arabic and in Quranic meanings. Transliteration Alrrijalu qawwamoona AAala alnnisa-i bima faddala Allahu baAAdahum AAala baAAdin wabima anfaqoo min amwalihim faalssalihatu qanitatun hafithatun lilghaybi bima hafitha Allahu waallatee takhafoona nushoozahunna faAAithoohunna waohjuroohunna fee almadajiAAi waidriboohunna fa-in ataAAnakum fala tabghoo AAalayhinna sabeelan inna Allaha kana AAaliyyan kabeeran Explanation (tafsir) of Sura 4:34Here is the translation of meaning of the verse as best can be defined according to the rules of understanding Quran with the explanations following this translation: "Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has made one of them to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them) from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient (to Allah), and guard in the husband's absence what Allah orders them to guard (e.g. their chastity, their husband's property, etc.). Regarding the woman who is guilty of lewd, or indecent behavior, admonish her (if she continues in this indecency then), stop sharing her bed (if she still continues doing this lewd behavior, then), [set forth for her the clear meaning of either straighten up or else we are finished and when she returns to proper behavior take up sharing the bed with her again], but if she returns in obedience (to proper behavior and conduct) then seek not against them means (of annoyance). Surely, Allah is Ever Most High, Most Great." Meaning of the WordsFor the three words fa'izu, wahjaru, and wadribu in the original, translated here 'speak to them in a persuasive manner', 'leave them alone (in bed - fi'l-madage'),' and 'have intercourse', respectively, see Raghib Lisan al-'Arab and Zamakhsari. Raghib in his Al-Mufridat fi Gharib al-Qur'an gives the meanings of these words with special reference to this verse. Fa-'izu, he says, means to 'to talk to them so persuasively as to melt their hearts.' (See also v.63 of this Surah where it has been used in a similar sense.) Hajara t- Wahjaru (do not touch or moleste them)Hajara, he says, means to separate body from body, and points out that the expression wahjaru hunna metaphorically means to refrain from touching or molesting them. Zamakhshari is more explicit in his Kshshaf when he says, 'do not get inside their blankets.' Here is the translation of meaning of the verse as best can be defined according to the rules of understanding Quran with the explanations following this translation: "Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has made one of them to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them) from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient (to Allah), and guard in the husband's absence what Allah orders them to guard (e.g. their chastity, their husband's property, etc.). Regarding women guilty of lewd, or indecent behavior, admonish her (if she continues in this indecency then), stop sharing her bed (if she still continues doing this lewd behavior, then), [set forth for her the clear meaning of either straighten up or else we are finished and when she returns to proper behavior take up sharing the bed with her again], but if she returns in obedience (to proper behavior and conduct) then seek not against them means (of annoyance). Surely, Allah is Ever Most High, Most Great." Let me begin by explaining the English language is not powerful enough when it comes to translating the meanings of the Arabic of the Quran. Nor for that matter, is any other language on earth. So, all we have is translations of meanings according to the best understanding of the translators. The operative word in this verse in Arabic is "daraba." While there are literally hundreds of uses for this word varying from "tap" to "walk in stride" to "strike at something" to "set a clear example", the only meaning that can be assigned to something in the Quran must be according to the rules of Quran. And Allah has used the same word a number of times with a consistent meaning. Let us examine them. Here is what we find from the scholars of the Arabic language: Daraba (to have intercourse, not to beat)Raghib points out that daraba metaphorically means to have intercourse, and quotes the expression darab al-fahl an-naqah, 'the stud camel covered the she-camel,' which is also quoted by Lisan al-'Arab. It cannot be taken here to mean 'to strike them (women).' This view is strengthened by the Prophet's authentic hadith found in a number of authorities, including Bukhari and Muslim: "Could any of you beat your wife as he would a slave, and then lie with her in the evening?" There are other traditions in Abu Da'ud, Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, Ahmad bin Hanbal and others, to the effect that he forbade the beating of any woman, saying: "Never beat God's handmaidens." Source: al-Qur'an: a contemporary translation by Ahmed Ali, Princeton University Press, 1988; pp78-79 Daraba (to set forth, to make a clear statement or proclamation) One of the key rules of understanding words of the Quran is to go to other places in the Quran to investigate the usage in other places. This word is used by Allah in other places in the Quran to mean "set forth" or "sets up for you" or "makes known to you" - as is demonstrated in the following verses: Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:17) yadribu Allahu al-amthala "Thus Allah sets forth a parable"[here the word "yadirbu" is from the exact same root da-ra-ba] Surah Ibrahim (14:24): Alam tara kayfa daraba Allahu mathalan .. "Don't you see how Allah sets forth a parable?.." And again in the next verse: Surah Ibrahim (14:25) wa yadribu Allahu al-amthala li-naasi "..and Allah sets forth parables for mankind.."[again the word yadirbu is from da-ra-ba] Surah An-Nur (24:35) wa yadribu Allahu al0amthala lin-naasi"And Allah sets forth parables for mankind.." Surah Ar-Rum (30:28) Daraba lakum mathalan min anfusikum "He sets forth for you a parable from yourselves.." Surah At-Tahreem (66:10) Daraba Allahu mathalan lillatheena kafaroo.."Allah sets forth an example for those disbelievers.." In fact, the word daraba has not been translated to mean (beat) or (hit) or (strike) in any other verse of the Quran except this one. The words for (beat) as in [to hit] found in Surah Baqarah 2:275 ... kama yaqoomu allathee yatakhabbatuhu ash-shaytanu mina almassi.. "..like the standing of someone beaten by the devil (Satan) leading him to insanity." And in Surah Ta Ha 20:18 Allah Says, "Qala hiya Aasaya atawakkao Aalayha waahushshu biha Aala ghanamee waliya feeha maaribu okhra.""This is my stick, whereon I lean, and wherewith I beat down branches for my sheep and wherein I find other uses."As you can see, these are not even related to the word (daraba). Verses 34 and 35 in Surah An-Nisaa' need to be read together to understand this is the proper relationship between men and women in general and husband and wife specifically. Islam seeks to hold the family together and to make peace and reconciliation between spouses. The next verse makes it clear what to do in the case where it seems that divorce may be the result of the uncorrected bad behavior. It stresses appointing arbitrators from both sides and seeks reconciliation. The first part of 34 deals with all men taking care of all women. Then goes on to explain the wife's proper obedience to Allah because He is the One Who has ordained this relationship of provision and protection for her and to be appreciative and respectful of her husband, guarding herself and his property in his absence. The man is told the proper way to behave when he finds his wife not complying with decency and proper behavior of a Muslim wife. He has a direct order to begin with admonishing her and then if there is compliance to leave her be and don't give her a hard time about it. However, if this continues, he should not have sex with her and this makes it clear to her that he is most serious and this not a joke. Again, if she comes around then he is to let it go and not bother her about it. Finally, if she still insists on such lewdness and bad conduct, he is to make it clear to her in no uncertain terms that they are going to be heading for separation or even divorce unless she comes back to proper behavior. Again, if she complies, then he should not bring it up and return to the bed with her. And of course, this is all in an effort to translate one short but powerful phrase from Arabic to English. The sources are quoted herein and there may be other interpretations but the only acceptable ones are those based on the teachings of the Quran and the prophet, peace be upon him. And as always, Allahu 'Alim (Allah is the Knower) Source: al-Qur'an: a contemporary translation by Ahmed Ali, Princeton University Press, 1988; pp78-79 In the past, some translators of this verse have mistakeningly used the word "beat" or "hit" or even "scourge" (as in the case of an old translation) to represent the word "daraba" in Arabic. This is not the opinion of all scholars especially Raghib and Zamakhshari as mentioned above and those who are well grounded in both Islam understanding and the English language. 34. Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allâh has made one of them to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them) from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient (to Allâh and to their husbands), and guard in the husband's absence what Allâh orders them to guard (e.g. their chastity, their husband's property, etc.). As to those women on whose part you see illconduct, admonish them (first), (next), refuse to share their beds, (and last) beat them (lightly, if it is useful), but if they return to obedience, seek not against them means (of annoyance). Surely, Allâh is Ever Most High, Most Great. The understanding now is that some of the translations are not properly representing the spirit of the meaning. Therefore, they cannot be considered to be the representation of what has been intended by Almighty God. Now we can properly understand that Almighty God has commanded thet men to provide for the women and allow them to keep all of their wealth, inheritance and income without demanding anything from them for support and maintenance. Additionally, if she should be guilty of lewd or indecent conduct, the husband is told to first, admonish her and then if she would cease this lewdness. If she should continue in this indecency, then he should no longer share the bed with her, and this would continue for a period of time. Finally, if she would repent then he would take up sharing the bed with her again. And Allah is All Knowing of the meanings.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Volume 7-#s 845, 341, 352, 371, 410, 413, 654, ch. 22, ch. 23, and
volume 1-#s 29, 439, 661,
volume 9-#s ch. 23, ch. 32, #293, 296, 277, 100, 80.
From: abu Ayman <abuayman88@yahoo.com>
To: mlalahoi@googlegroups.com
Cc: youngprofessionals_ke@googlegroups.com; daddiepaul2001@yahoo.com
Sent: Mon, July 26, 2010 11:44:29 AM
Subject: Re: The Quran and verses that needs clarification
Let me clarify for you the points which you raised
On the verse you cited claiming it promotes Gender violence, this is the response;
First, the context of the verse deals with solving marital disputes between the husband and the wife. Islam exhorts the husband not to rush into divorcing the wife who is disobedient but prescribes a three way solution.
The Qur'an exhorts the husband to treat his wife kindly and even if she has some drawbacks which are not pleasing to the him, he is advised not overlook her POSITIVE ASPECTS (see Qur'an 4:19). In the event that she is disobedient, the husband is encouraged to give her sincere advice. In most cases, this measure is likely to be sufficient. In cases where the problem continues, the husband may express his displeasure in another peaceful manner, by sleeping in a separate bed from hers.
There are cases, however, in which a wife persists in deliberate mistreatment and expresses contempt of her husband and disregard for her marital obligations. Instead of divorce, the husband may resort to another measure that may save the marriage, at least in some cases.
Here the third option of beating follows. However, Muslims scholars have accurately described this form of 'beating' as a gentle tap on the body, it is more of a symbolic measure then a punitive one. In explaining this verse, Muslim Scholars have mentioned that the beating should be carried out by something like a miswak, (a small tooth stick) or folded scarf i.e something which will not cause pain or injury.
In the traditions of the Prophet, the beating is referred to as dharban ghayra mubarrih, or light striking that which leaves no mark on the body.
This makes it clear that even this extreme, last resort, and "lesser of the two evils" measure that may save a marriage does not meet the definitions of "physical abuse," "family violence, " or "wife battering" in our present times in liberal democracies, where such extremes are so commonplace that they are seen as national concerns.
In several sayings, Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him frowned at the idea of beating wives. "Do not beat the female servants of Allah;" "Some (women) visited my family complaining about their husbands (beating them). These (husbands) are not the best of you;" and"[It is not a shame that] one of you beats his wife like he beats a slave and maybe he sleeps with her at the end of the day." ( Riyadh Al-Saliheen).
Narrated Mu'awiyah al-Qushayri: "I went to the Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) and asked him: What do you say (command) about our wives? He replied: Give them food what you have for yourself, and clothe them by which you clothe yourself, and do not beat them, and do not revile them. (Sunan Abu-Dawud, Book 11, Marriage (Kitab Al-Nikah), Number 2139)"
Added to these is the inescapable fact that the Prophet vehemently disapproved of men hitting their wives, and that he never in his entire life lit any woman or child. In the Prophet's last sermon, he exhorted men to "be kind to women-you have rights over your wives, and they have rights over you." He also said, "Treat your women well, and be kind to them, for they are your partners and committed helpers," and at a different time, he said, "The strong man is not the one who can use the force of physical strength, but the one who controls his anger" (Bukhari).
These Qur'an make it clear that the relationship between men and women is to be one of kindness, mutual respect, and caring. "And among God's signs is this: He created for you mates from amongst yourselves (males as mates for females and vice versa) that you might find tranquillity and peace in them. And he has put love and kindness among you. Herein surely are signs for those who reflect. (The Noble Quran 30:21)"
Some verses, where Allah calls men and women "protecting friends of one another," refer to the mandated atmosphere of mutual kindness and mercy in the marital home (30:21; 9:71).
The prophet equated perfect belief with good treatment to one's wife when he said: "The most perfect believer is one who is the best in courtesy and amiable manners, and the best among you people is one who is most kind and courteous to his wives" (see Tirmidhi, chapter on the obligations of a man to his wife). Finally, the prophet, the best example of conduct said: "The best among you is the one who treats his family best."
Abu Ayman
*Will respond to your other queries in due course.
From: Paul Konyango <daddiepaul2001@yahoo.com>
To: abu Ayman <abuayman88@yahoo.com>; mlalahoi@googlegroups.com
Cc: youngprofessionals_ke@googlegroups.com
Sent: Fri, July 23, 2010 2:32:56 PM
Subject: The Quran and verses that needs clarification
In sura 5:33 the Qur'an orders those who fight Allah and his messenger to be killed or crucified, or have their hands and feet on alternate sides cut off; or they can be expelled out of the land. In sura 48:16-17, we read that all who die "fighting in the ways of the Lord" (Jihad) are richly rewarded, but those who retreat are sorely punished.
The first blood shed under Muhammad was carried out by a blind disciple named Umair, who stabbed and killed a woman named Asma while she slept suckling her baby because she had criticized Muhammad with poetic verses. Upon hearing of this Muhammad said "Behold a man that hath assisted the Lord and His prophet. Call him not blind, call him rather 'Umair,' the seeing." (Nehls pg.122).
Therefore, when those of us who are Christians read these suras, and see the example of the prophet himself, we find a total rejection of the previous teachings of Jesus who calls us to live in peace and put away the sword. We then are incredulous when we hear Muslims claim that Islam is the religion of peace. The record speaks for itself.
Abu and my other Muslim friends, I have retrieved some of the verses that clearly brings forth Islam as a religion that discriminates against women and is violent in its nature. Still I need to substantiate my previous claim that Islam promotes slavery.
* Please if you have time clarify the above and let us have a sober approach on these. Abu you had told me earlier that the Bible promotes promiscuity and violence. I'm ready for a rational discussion of the above claims and also clarify the scriptures in the Bible that you said do promote quire acts
Regards
Konyi
From: Paul Konyango <daddiepaul2001@yahoo.com>
To: abu Ayman <abuayman88@yahoo.com>; mlalahoi@googlegroups.com
Cc: youngprofessionals_ke@googlegroups.com
Sent: Wed, July 14, 2010 11:11:45 AM
Subject: Re: Two Bomb Attacks in Uganda, Muslims of course responsible
From: abu Ayman <abuayman88@yahoo.com>
To: mlalahoi@googlegroups.com
Cc: daddiepaul2001@yahoo.com
Sent: Wed, July 14, 2010 10:58:08 AM
Subject: Re: Two Bomb Attacks in Uganda, Muslims of course responsible
From: Paul Konyango <daddiepaul2001@yahoo.com>
To: Sham Faraj <habubah2000@yahoo.co.uk>; mlalahoi@googlegroups.com
Sent: Tue, July 13, 2010 4:25:23 PM
Subject: Re: Two Bomb Attacks in Uganda, Muslims of course responsible
From: Sham Faraj <habubah2000@yahoo.co.uk>
To: mlalahoi@googlegroups.com
Cc: daddiepaul2001@yahoo.com
Sent: Tue, July 13, 2010 4:02:28 PM
Subject: Re: Two Bomb Attacks in Uganda, Muslims of course responsible
| Konyango, What does Islam have to do with the bombing??? The ones who claimed responsibility are ALSHABAB not MUSLIMS in general...!!! We are all condemning what Al-Shabad did, infact it's cowardly, it's not Islamic at all. The killings of innocent children, mothers n fathers in a church during the 2007 clashes, would it be justified if a muslim said that CHRISITIANS are barbaric??? NO! And you never heard any muslim say that nor even think that either, except that we all were horrified to see that our fellow kenyans doing such a horrific thing to their own! There are Irish bombers killing people, there people who kill children in schools at broad day light, and they are christians brought up in a chrisitian family infact, bt it is never mentioned that a chrisitian man or boy terrorised or killed people no, neither is chrisitianity mentioned either. So why when a muslim man/boy/woman does something you have to drag the Islam religion?? What do u know about Islam and its teachings that you, a devoted chrisitian (as u call urself) can come out and say that Islam is a hostile religion?? Kanyago, have you ever read anything from a muslim here in this forum talking against chrisitianity, the way you and some other brothers here do in regards to Islam and muslims?? I haven't. And do you know why? It's because Islam teaches us to respect other people's religion, and Allah said this in the quran: "In the name of Allah, most Gracious most Merciful. 109.01 Say: O ye who rejects faith! 109.02 I worship not that ye worship, 109.03 Nor will ye worship that which I worship. 109.04 And I will not worship that which ye have been wont to worship, 109.05 Nor will you worship that which I worship. 109.06 To you be your Way, and to me mine" So Konyango please leave Islam to the muslims, who are a peace loving people too, and who DO NOT support the killings of innocent people regardless of their religion. Thank you and have a good day. Sham Faraj
YOU CAN'T PLEASE EVERYBODY... DON'T LET CRITICISM WORRY YOU...
--- On Tue, 13/7/10, Paul Konyango <daddiepaul2001@yahoo.com> wrote:
|
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