The Variation in the Interpretation of the Words ill and Dhimma in the Eighth and Tenth Verses of Surat Al-Tawbah

Abstract

This study discusses and compares the verse “How [can there be a treaty] while, if they gain dominance over you, they do not observe concerning you any pact of kinship or covenant of protection? They satisfy you with their mouths, but their hearts refuse [compliance], and most of them are defiantly disobedient.” (9:8) and the verse “They do not observe toward a believer any pact of kinship or covenant of protection. And it is they who are the transgressors.” (9:10). There are various interpretations of the meanings of the words ill and dhimma; the study aims to address how interpreters of the Quran interpreted the meaning of these two words, highlighting the pieces of evidence they cited, the linguistic meaning of the two words, the justifications for the interpreters’ disagreement, and the most plausible interpretation found. The study concludes that ill means ‘kinship’ and dhimma means ‘every right one would be reproached if he/she attempts to neglect’.

Keywords

• Quran, Surat Al-Tawbah, ill, dhimma, intepretation, comparison.