The Incidence of the Prostration of Polytheists with Muslims in the light of Surah Al Najam: An analytical Study = حادثة سجود المشرکین مع المسلمین فی ضوء سورة النجم دراسة وتحلیل

Abstract

An incident is narrated in a Hadith that Mushrikeen (the Polytheists) of Makkah joined the Muslims in Sajdah (prostration) after hearing the Quranic verses of Surah (chapter) al-Najm. In some narrations speculations have been made that recitation of a verse by the Prophet Muhammad (May peace and mercy of Allah be upon him) containing praise to the idols of the polytheists has been heard in this occasion. This is known as story of al-Gharaneeq. There is difference of opinion among Muslim scholars about the story of Al-Gharaneeq. Majority of the scholars reject the story absolutely and consider it as an attempt of mischief and creating doubt about authenticity of Quran and revelation upon the prophet Muhammad (May peace and mercy of Allah be upon him). According to their views there are a number of contradictions and other problems in narration of the Hadith, beside the fact that none of the authentic books of Hadith including Hishah Sittah narrated the story of al-Gharaneeq. Moreover the story contradicts with overall teachings of Quran and Sunnah and unacceptable according to text and context of Ayah (verse). Some scholars accept the story of prostration of polytheists with Muslims and give different justifications for that, but they absolutely deny the story of al-Gharaneeq (praise to idols of the polytheists). Few scholars accept the story of al-Gharaneeq, with lots of explanations and clarifications to deny the concept of praising the idols by the prophet Muhammad (May peace and mercy of Allah be upon him). The Exegesis who explain the Quran in Urdu language follow the major scholars the rejection of this story. All narrations and views of the scholars in this connection have been discussed and analyzed in this article.