Shubha

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Shubha (Arabic: شبهة doubt, obscurity, or mis-grounded conceit)[1] is an Islamic term which refers usually to arguments against or criticism of Islam. More precisely, it can point to difficulties perceived in Qur'an or Islam.

[edit] In Qur'an

A derived term with similar meaning is mentioned in the Qur'an at 3:7[2].

It is He Who has sent down to you the Book. In it are Verses that are entirely clear, they are the foundations of the Book; and others not entirely clear. So as for those in whose hearts there is a deviation (from the truth) they follow that which is not entirely clear thereof, seeking Al-Fitnah (polytheism and trials, etc.), and seeking for its hidden meanings, but none knows its hidden meanings save Allâh. And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say: "We believe in it; the whole of it (clear and unclear Verses) are from our Lord." And none receive admonition except men of understanding.[3]

In Hindi, the name Shubha means auspicious, or bringing good luck. The meaning comes from the root, Shub.

[edit] In Hadith

Commenting on the above verse, the Prophet is reported to have said:

«فَإِذَا رَأَيْتِ الَّذِينَ يَتَّبِعُونَ مَا تَشَابَهَ مِنْهُ؛ فَأُولئِكَ الَّذِينَ سَمَّى اللهُ، فَاحْذَرُوهُم»

(When you see those who follow what is not so clear of the Qur'an, then they are those whom God described, so beware of them.)[4]

[edit] Notes

  1. ^ Al-Mawrid dictionary gives: suspicion, doubt, dubiosity, uncertainty, obscurity, vagueness.
  2. ^ Qur'ān, Chapter 3, Verse 7
  3. ^ Rough Translation of the Meaning of The Noble Quran, Muhammad Taqi-ud-Din Al-Hilali and Muhammad Muhsin Khan. Abridged.
  4. ^ Bukhari, Volume 6, Book 60, Number 70 (Arabic). See also Tafsir Ibn Kathir.
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