Taghoot in Arabic and Its Meaning in the Quran
Arabic Term:
- Taghoot (طاغوت): This term is derived from the root word ط-غ-ى (T-GH-A) which means to exceed the limits or to transgress.
Meaning of Taghoot in the Quran:
In the Quran, Taghoot generally refers to anything or anyone that is worshiped or followed instead of Allah, or which leads people away from the worship of Allah. It encompasses false deities, tyrants, idols, and even ideologies or systems that promote disobedience to Allah.
Explanation in the Quran:
- Rebellion Against Allah:
- Surah An-Nisa (4:60): “Have you not seen those who claim to have believed in what was revealed to you, [O Muhammad], and what was revealed before you? They wish to refer legislation to Taghoot, while they were commanded to reject it; and Satan wishes to lead them far astray.”
- Explanation: This verse highlights that true believers should not refer to Taghoot for judgment or legislation, as they are commanded to reject it and follow the guidance of Allah.
- False Gods and Idols:
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:256): “There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion. The right course has become clear from the wrong. So whoever disbelieves in Taghoot and believes in Allah has certainly grasped the most trustworthy handhold with no break in it. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.”
- Explanation: This verse emphasizes the importance of rejecting Taghoot (false deities and idols) and believing solely in Allah to achieve true faith and security.
- Evil Leaders and Tyrants:
- Surah An-Nahl (16:36): “And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], ‘Worship Allah and avoid Taghoot.’ And among them were those whom Allah guided, and among them were those upon whom error was [deservedly] decreed. So proceed through the earth and observe how was the end of the deniers.”
- Explanation: This verse indicates that every messenger was sent with the mission to call people to the worship of Allah alone and to avoid Taghoot, which includes tyrannical leaders and corrupt systems.
- Satan and Evil Forces:
- Surah Az-Zumar (39:17): “And those who avoided Taghoot lest they worship it and turned back to Allah – for them are good tidings. So give good tidings to My servants.”
- Explanation: This verse provides glad tidings to those who avoid worshiping or following Taghoot, including Satan and other evil forces, and turn sincerely to Allah.
Summary:
In summary, Taghoot in the Quran represents all forms of falsehood, rebellion, and entities that lead people away from the worship and obedience of Allah. It is a comprehensive term that includes false deities, oppressive rulers, misguided leaders, and any system or ideology that contradicts the teachings of Islam. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of rejecting Taghoot and turning to Allah alone for guidance, judgment, and worship.
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