The term "Ghadr" (غدر) in Arabic has deep roots in classical lexicons. Linguistically, it conveys the following meanings:
| Source 📚 | Definition |
|---|---|
| Tāj al-‘Arūs | "To neglect or abandon something; to fail in one’s responsibility." (Vol. 13, p. 203) |
| Lisān al-‘Arab | "The opposite of fulfilling a covenant." (Vol. 5, p. 8) |
| Tahdhīb al-Lughah | "To break a promise or betray a covenant." (Vol. 8, p. 87) |
In summary, linguistically, treachery refers to:
❗ Breaking a promise or failing to fulfill one’s obligations, particularly after having committed to them.
In Islamic ethics and literature, the term "Ghadr" is addressed with deeper moral implications. Here are some scholarly definitions:
| Scholar 🧠 | Definition |
|---|---|
| Al-Jāḥiẓ (d. 868 CE) | "It is the withdrawal from what a person has committed to, and assured others of his fulfillment." (Tahdhīb al-Akhlāq, p. 30) |
| Al-Manāwī (d. 1621 CE) | "Treachery is the violation of a covenant, negligence of duty, and abandoning what was entrusted." (Al-Tawqīf ‘alā Muhimmāt al-Ta‘ārīf, p. 250) |
| Sayyid Muḥammad Nūḥ | "It is the sudden and unexpected breaking of a promise or covenant." (Āfāt ‘alā al-Ṭarīq, p. 80) |
💡 Key Insight:
Treachery is not merely a breach of trust — it is often characterized by surprise and deception, making it more morally reprehensible.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| 🔤 Linguistic | Failure to fulfill one’s word or promise; abandonment or betrayal. |
| 📚 Terminological | A moral and ethical violation involving breaking a promise, often suddenly or without warning. |
In Islamic teachings and many ethical systems, treachery is strongly condemned due to its impact on trust, community cohesion, and individual relationships.