Detailed Scholarly Analysis
Detailed Analysis: Surah Al-Baqara Ayah 168
Explore comprehensive scholarly analysis, linguistic insights, and practical applications of this verse from the Holy Quran based on classical and contemporary Islamic scholarship.
Introduction
Al-Baqarah 2:168 provides essential guidance that bridges the physical and spiritual aspects of human life through divine dietary principles. According to Ibn Kathir and other classical scholars, this verse comes after the stern warnings about spiritual accountability to offer positive guidance for righteous living. The verse addresses all humanity, not just Muslims, establishing universal principles for consuming Allah's provisions while maintaining spiritual purity and protection from Satan's influence.
Translation Overview
Different translations emphasize various aspects of this comprehensive guidance. Pickthall translates it as 'lawful and wholesome,' while Saheeh International uses 'lawful and good.' Abdullah Yusuf Ali renders it as 'lawful and good,' and Mufti Taqi Usmani translates it as 'permissible good things.' The phrase about Satan varies from 'footsteps of the devil' (Pickthall) to 'footsteps of Satan' (others), all emphasizing the gradual nature of satanic influence and the need for vigilance in daily choices.
Classical Interpretation
Ibn Kathir explains that 'halāl' refers to what Allah has explicitly permitted or what is not explicitly forbidden, while 'tayyib' means pure, clean, and beneficial for body and soul. He emphasizes that this command applies to all of Allah's creation on earth unless specifically prohibited. Al-Qurtubi notes that 'khutuwāt' (footsteps) indicates the gradual, step-by-step nature of Satan's temptation, warning against both obvious sins and subtle deviations from divine guidance. Al-Tabari adds that Satan's enmity includes making lawful things seem harmful and harmful things seem beneficial.
Linguistic Analysis
The Arabic word 'halāl' comes from the root ḥ-l-l, meaning to untie or make permissible, indicating Allah's permission for human consumption. 'Tayyib' derives from ṭ-y-b, meaning good, pure, and wholesome, emphasizing quality beyond mere permission. The phrase 'khutuwāt ash-shaytān' literally means 'steps of Satan,' indicating a progressive path of deviation. The emphasis 'aduwwun mubīn' (clear enemy) uses 'mubīn' from the root b-y-n, meaning manifest or evident, stressing that Satan's enmity should be obvious to thinking people.
Historical Context
According to authentic reports, this verse was revealed in the context of addressing various pre-Islamic food taboos and superstitions that people had imposed upon themselves without divine authorization. Classical scholars mention that some Arabian tribes had prohibited certain foods based on cultural traditions or personal vows. The verse establishes that only Allah has the authority to determine what is lawful or unlawful, freeing people from arbitrary human restrictions while maintaining divine boundaries.
Related Hadiths
Ibn Kathir references the hadith where the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, 'What Allah has made lawful in His Book is halāl, and what He has made unlawful is harām, and what He has remained silent about is forgiven.' Another authentic tradition states that 'halāl is clear and harām is clear, and between them are doubtful matters.' Scholars also cite the hadith emphasizing that Allah is pure and accepts only what is pure, connecting food purity to spiritual acceptance.
Practical Applications
Scholars explain that this verse establishes comprehensive guidelines for Muslim living: choosing halāl food sources, avoiding excess and waste, maintaining gratitude for divine provisions, and recognizing Satan's influence in both obvious and subtle forms. Contemporary applications include reading ingredient labels, understanding food production methods, avoiding both stinginess and extravagance, and maintaining balance in dietary choices while prioritizing spiritual considerations alongside physical health.
Scholarly Insights
Modern Islamic scholars emphasize that this verse establishes the principle that the default state of created things is permissibility unless specifically prohibited. They note that 'tayyib' includes considerations of health, ethics, and environmental impact, making this verse relevant to contemporary discussions about organic food, ethical sourcing, and sustainable consumption. The warning against Satan's footsteps applies to modern temptations including food addiction, wasteful consumption, and unhealthy dietary extremes.
Cross References
This verse connects to detailed dietary laws in 5:3-4, the principle of gratitude for provisions in 16:114, and warnings against excess in 7:31. It also relates to verses about earning lawful livelihood (2:188), the importance of pure intentions in consumption (23:51), and the comprehensive nature of Satan's enmity (17:53). These connections establish a holistic Islamic approach to sustenance and lifestyle.
Conclusion
This verse establishes that proper consumption of Allah's provisions involves both following divine law (halāl) and choosing what is beneficial (tayyib), while maintaining constant vigilance against Satan's influence in all aspects of life. By connecting physical nourishment to spiritual protection, it demonstrates that Islamic guidance encompasses all human needs and that conscious adherence to divine principles in daily choices serves as both practical wisdom and spiritual safeguard.
Note: This analysis is compiled from authentic Islamic sources and scholarly interpretations. Always consult qualified Islamic scholars for religious guidance and understanding.