p. lii1 See note to vol. ii, p. 110, of Burton's 'Pilgrimage to El Medina and Mecca.
p. lvi1 Geschichte des Qorâns, p. 43. 2 Mohammed may well have repudiated the charge of being a poet, for he is only credited with one verse, and that an inv[...]
p. lxix1 See Part I, p. 13, note 2. 2 Mâlik is evidently identical with Moloch, as Gehennum, hell, is the same as the Gehenna of the Bible. 3 See Part I, p. 138, note 1. 4 See Chapter II, ver. 32.
p. lxx1 See above, p. xxx. 2 Cf. Chapter XV, ver. 44.
p. lxxxvii1 This is constantly alluded to in Persian mystical poetry as Rozialast, 'the day of "Am I not?"' 2 As Allâh, not Allât, the name of a goddess. See p. 160, note 1.
p. 21 For an explanation of these and similar letters see Introduction. 2 Although the Arabic demonstrative pronoun means 'that,' the translators have hitherto always rendered it 'this,' forg[...]
p. 31 This change of number is of frequent occurrence in the Qur'ân, and is not incompatible with the genius of the Arabic [...]
p. 41 That is, the idols. 2 The vagueness is in the original; it is variously interpreted 'fruits like each other,' or 'like the fruits of earth.' 3 This is in answer to the objections that had been taken against the mention of such small things as the 'spider' and [...]
p. 51 That is, truthful in their implied suggestion that man would be inferior to themselves in wisdom and obedience. The w[...]
p. 71 Cf. Exodus xxxii. 24, 26, 27. 2 According to some commentators, Jerusalem; and according to others, Jericho. 3 The word means Remission, or laying down the burden (of sins). 4 Some say the expression they used was habbah fi sha'hîrah, a grain in an ear of barley,' the idea being apparently su[...]
p. 81 The Mohammedan legend is that this was done by the angel Gabriel to terrify the people into obedience.
p. 91 The tradition is that some inhabitants of Elath (Akabah) were transformed into apes for catching fish on the Sabbath [...] 2 The legend embodied in this passage and what follows appears to be a distorted account of the heifer ordered by the M[...]
p. 101 A constant charge against the Jews is that of having corrupted the Scriptures. 2 A superstition of certain Jews.
p. 111 Alluding to some quarrels among the Jewish Arabs.
p. 131 Exodus xxxii. 20. 2 The Jews objected to Mohammed's assertion that the arch-angel Gabriel revealed the Qur'ân to him, saying that he was [...]
p. 141 Solomon's acts of disobedience and idolatry are attributed by Muslim tradition to the tricks of devils, who assumed h[...] 2 Two angels who having fallen in love with daughters of men (Gen. vi. 2) were condemned to hang in chains in a pit at [...] 3 The Jewish Arabs used the first of these two words derisively. In Arabic it merely means 'observe us,' but the Jews c[...]
p. 151 The word resignation (Islâm) is that by which Mohammed's religion is known and by which it is spoken of in the Qur'ân.
p. 161 Probably alluding to the occasion on which the Meccans prevented Mohammed from using the Kaabah, in the sixth year of[...] 2 I.e. God forbid!
p. 171 Imâm, the name given to the priest who leads the prayer, it is equivalent to Antistes. 2 The Kaabah or square temple at Mecca is spoken of as Bâit Allâh = Bethel, 'the house of God.' 3 The Muqâm Ibrahîm, in the Kaabah enclosure, where a so-called footprint of the patriarch is shown.
p. 181 See note, p. 15. The last sentence might be rendered 'until ye become Muslims.'
p. 191 The word means in Arabic 'inclining to what is right;' it is often used technically for one who professes El Islâm. 2 The metaphor is derived from dyeing cloth, and must not be translated 'by the technical word baptism, as in Sale's version.
p. 201 The point to which they turn in prayer, from qabala, 'to be before.' 2 At first Mohammed and his followers adopted no point of adoration. After the higrah, or flight from Mecca to Medina, [...] 3 I.e. at Mecca.
p. 211 I.e. know Mohammed from the prophecies the Scriptures are alleged to contain about him. See Introduction. 2 On the last day. 3 Or rather be not ungrateful, the word Kufr implying negation of benefits received as well as of faith. 4 I.e. in the cause of religion.
p. 221 This formula is always used by Mohammedans in any danger and sudden calamity, especially in the presence of death. 2 Two mountains near Mecca, where two idols used to stand. 3 Or, 'respited,' as some interpret it.
p. 231 Variously interpreted 'idols' and 'chiefs.' 2 Chiefs of sects and founders of false religions. 3 I.e. their mutual relations. 4 I.e. on earth.
p. 241 I.e. as cattle hear the sound of the drover without understanding the meaning of his words, so the infidels fail to c[...] 2 At the time of slaughtering an animal the Muslims always repeat the formula bismi'llâh, in the name of God. 3 I.e. the wayfarer.
p. 251 The relations of a murdered man are always allowed to choose the fine instead of the blood revenge. 2 The legacy.
p. 261 'I.e. able to fast but do not. 2 I.e. who is at home during the month Rama.dhân and not on a journey, or in a place where it is impossible to keep the fast.
p. 271 The Arabs before Mohammed's time had a superstition that it was unlucky to enter their houses by the doors on their r[...] 2 Or, 'cause,' see note 4, p. 21. 3 By beginning the fight yourselves. 4 The other Arabs had attacked them during the month p. 28 DHu'l Qa'hdah, which was one of their sacred months; the Mos[...]
p. 281 If a breach of their sanctity be committed. 2 I.e. going to the visitation at once without waiting for the month of the pilgrimage to come round.
p. 291 By trading during the 'Hagg. 2 On the rites and stations of the 'Hagg pilgrimage, see Introduction. 3 A'hnas ibn Surâiq eTH THaqafî, a fair spoken man of pleasant appearance, who pretended to believe in Mohammed.
p. 301 Zuhâib ibn Sinân er Rûmî, who being threatened at Mecca with death unless he apostatized from Islâm, said, 'I am an o[...] 2 Here used as a synonym for resignation, i.e. Islâm.
p. 321 In the Arabic hâgarû, i.e. who fled with Mohammed in his higrah or expatriation to Medina, from which the Muslim era dates. 2 The gihâd, or general war of extermination against infidels, to threaten or preach which is a favourite diplomatic we[...] 3 'Hamr, which is rendered 'wine,' includes all alcoholic and intoxicating drinks. 4 El mâisar was a game of chance, played with arrows, the prize being a young camel, which was slaughtered and given to[...] 5 I.e. if ye wrong orphans.
p. 331 Either wishing for a child, or saying, 'in the name of God,' Bâi.dhâvî. 2 See note 1, p. 1.
p. 341 The confusion of numbers and persons is in the original. The meaning of the passage is that 'divorce is allowed twice[...]
p. 361 I.e. with honest intentions. 2 Until the time prescribed by the Qur'ân be fulfilled. 3 That is, unless the wife choose to give up a part of the half which she could claim, or the husband do the same on hi[...] 4 See excursus on the Rites and Ceremonies of Islâm. 5 Interpreted to mean either the middle or the odd one of the five.
p. 371 That is, if ye are in danger, say your prayers, as best you can, on foot or horseback, not staying so as to endanger [...] 2 The legend to which this alludes is variously told, but the most usually accepted version is that a number of the Isr[...] 3 Samuel.
p. 381 Saul. 2 The commentators do not understand that the word sakînah, which is in the original, is identical with the Hebrew shec[...] 3 Samuel iv, v, vi. 4 Gideon and Saul are here confused; this portion of the story is taken from Judges vi.
p. 391 Goliath. 2 Moses, called Kalîmu 'llâh, He with whom God spake.'
p. 401 This is the famous âyatu 'l kursîy, or 'verse of the throne,' considered as one of the finest passages in the Qur'ân,[...] 2 The idols and demons of the ancient Arabs are so called. 3 Nimrod, who persecuted Abraham, according to the eastern legend; see Chapter XXI, verses 52-69.
p. 411 According to the Arabic commentators, 'Huzair (Esdras) ibn Sara'hyâ or Al 'Hizr (Elias) is the person alluded to; and [...] 2 Cf. Genesis xv. 9.
p. 431 I.e. by a mutual understanding between seller and buyer. 2 See note 2, p. 1. 3 I.e. Mohammed. 4 I must again remind the reader of the remarks made in the Introduction that the language of the Qur'ân is really rude[...]
p. 471 I.e. the fundamental part of it. 2 On the occasion of the battle of Bedr. See Introduction.
p. 481 The word also means 'illiterate,' and refers here to the Pagan Arabs in Mohammed's time. He seems to have borrowed th[...] 2 See note, p. 15.
p. 501 Amram; who, according to the Mohammedans, was the father of the Virgin Mary, (Miriam.) A confusion seems to have exis[...] 2 The Mohammedan superstition is that the devils listen at the p. 51 gate of heaven for scraps of the knowledge of futu[...]
p. 521 The legend is, that the priests threw lots by casting arrows into the river Jordan. The word used for arrows means si[...]
p. 531 The Arabic expression is 'Havâriyûn, which means 'fullers,' and is explained by the commentators either as referring [...] 2 See note 1, page 15. 3 The Mohammedans believe that it was an eidolon and not Jesus himself who was crucified. 4 This word dhikr is used by Mohammedans for the recitation of the Qur'ân, and is also applied to the religious celebra[...]
p. 551 This is said to allude to some Jews who professed Islâm in the morning and recanted at night, saying that they had in[...] 2 A 'talent,' qintâr, is used for any very large sum, a dînâr ('denarius') was a gold coin worth about 10s.
p. 561 I.e. pervert it. 2 In the original Rabbânîyîn, an expression identical with Rabboni, cf. John xx. 16.
p. 571 The legend, borrowed from Talmudic sources, is that God assembled all past, present, and future prophets on Mount Sin[...]
p. 591 Alluding to an occasion in which the ancient rivalry between the two tribes of El Aus and El 'Hazrag, which had been [...]
p. 601 I.e. only a slight hurt. 2 That is, unless they enter into either the spiritual or temporal dominion of Islam, by professing the Mohammedan cree[...]
p. 611 This refers to the battle of Ohod, when Mohammed experienced a severe check, and lost two teeth by a shot from an arrow.
p. 641 Plunder. 2 This word is always used for the pagan Arabs.
p. 661 He means that the loss at Ohod was more than counter-balanced by their previous success at Bedr. For an account of th[...]
p. 681 Mohammed, in his message to the Jewish tribe of Kainûka, used the words of the Qur'ân, and bade them 'lend to God at [...] 2 The commentators say that the Jewish Rabbis demanded of Mohammed this proof of his prophetic mission, having regard, [...]
p. 701 This passage was revealed in answer to the objection of Umm Salmâ, one of Mohammed's wives, when the women who fled w[...]
2 That is, fear God, and pay respect to your mothers and wives. 3 That is, female slaves.
p. 721 The Arabic idiom for the enjoyment of property being to eat it up, Mohammed here gives the men permission to enjoy su[...] 2 To idiots or persons of weak intellect.
p. 731 The word in the original is that always used to express this relationship. 2 I.e. to the heirs.
p. 741 Women taken in adultery or fornication were at the beginning of Islâm literally immured. 2 The commentators are not agreed as to the nature of the offence here referred to. The text, however, speaks of two of[...]
p. 751 That is, from marrying again. 2 That is, a large dowry. 3 This question is ironical, and intended as a warning against bringing a false accusation of infidelity against a wife[...]
p. 781 The abbreviated form taku (for takun) is used in the Arabic.
p. 791 See note 3, p. 14. 2 See Chapter II, verse 61. 3 The word in the original means a fibre in the cleft of a date stone, or the rush wick of a candle. 4 Idols of the ancient Arabs; see p. 40.
p. 801 Literally, a dent or cleft in a date stone.
p. 971 The Qurâish, who sent to meet Mohammed with 1400 men at 'Hudâibîyeh to prevent him from approaching Mecca, A.H. 6. 2 Literally, 'stones set up,' Dolmens and the like, which are so common throughout Arabia. 3 By the game of mâisar, see p. 32.
p. 981 Referring to the oath of fidelity which Mohammed's adherents took at 'Akabah.
p. 991 Various stories are told in explanation of this passage, but they are all obviously apocryphal, the angel Gabriel int[...] 2 That is, the text foretelling the coming of Mohammed; see Introduction.
p. 1051 The time before the Mohammedan dispensation is always so called. 2 I.e. to take his place.
p. 1061 The ancient Arabs always lit a beacon-fire as a proclamation of war, or a notice of the approach of an enemy.
p. 1101 I.e. from the yoke of captivity. 2 See note 4, p. 32. 3 This has been thought by strict Musselmans to exclude the game of chess. Sunnis, however, play the game with plain pi[...]
p. 1121 These were the named given to certain animals which were marked and allowed to graze at liberty. Ba'hîrah was the name[...]
p. 1151 So called from the mention which it contains of the superstitious customs of the Arabs with regard to their cattle. 2 Said to be a protest against the dualistic doctrine that Light and Darkness were two co-eternal principles. 3 I.e. a term for your life and another for your resurrection. 4 By good or evil works.
p. 1241 The Hebrew Terah is in Arabic Târah. Eusebius gives the form Athar, which may in some measure account for the name he[...]
p. 1251 The Jews are here, as frequently in the Qur'ân, accused of suppressing and altering those parts of their scriptures w[...]
p. 1261 Mecca. 2 This refers to Abdallah ibn Sa'hd ibn Abî. Sar'h, who acted as amanuensis to Mohammed, and when he came to the words [...] 3 This word is nearly always used for the verses of the Qur'ân. 4 That is, partners with God, idols; to associate being the usual phrase in the Qur'ân for idolatry.
p. 1271 In the womb. 2 Supernatural beings created, like the devils, of fire instead of clay, and possessed of miraculous powers. They are d[...]
p. 1291 This word may also be rendered 'before them' or 'a surety' (for the truth of the revelation).
p. 1311 That is, makes him appear as one who would attempt some great but impossible thing and fails therein.
p. 1321 I, e. the idols. 2 The pagan Arabs used to set apart certain of the produce of their fields to Allah the chief God, and other portions t[...] 3 Alluding both to human sacrifices to idols and the cruel custom of burying female children alive. See Introduction.
p. 1331 That is, to obscure what little trace it had of the original faith of Abraham The 'Hanîf. 2 Trailed over an 'Arîsh, that is, a sort of hut made of boughs. 3 That is, spread out when slaughtered, or from the hides and wool, &c., of which a bed (farsh) is made.
p. 1341 The Arabs alternately made it unlawful to eat the males, and then the young of these four kinds of cattle. Mohammed i[...]
p. 1351 That is, commit no homicide unless it be by legal execution or the slaying of infidels in war.
p. 1361 Signs of the approach of the day of judgment.
p. 1371 Not receive the recompense of other than persons' evil actions.
p. 1381 The name of the bridge between heaven and hell described in this chapter.
p. 1401 I.e. fine dresses. 2 That is, wear your best apparel in the mosque.
p. 1411 Whereas now idolaters share in the good things of this world; but on the day of judgment those only shall enjoy them'[...] 2 That is, they shall have whatever portion of good or evil is written for them in the book of their fate.
p. 1421 See p. 127, note 2. 2 Literally, his sister.
p. 1451 An extinct tribe of the ancient Arabs. 2 Hûd and Thamûd, both mentioned in the works of Ptolemy, were two tribes of the ancient Arabs, extinct in Mohammed's t[...]
p. 1461 Referring to the numerous excavated rock-dwellings in Idumaea.
p. 1471 All that has been hitherto written about the legend Zâli'h and his camel is pure conjecture; the native commentators [...]
p. 1491 The Jethro of the Bible. 2 That is, 'give us a chance,' the idiom is still current in modern parlance. A shopkeeper, for instance, who has not s[...]
p. 1501 The word is used of an arrow that hits a mark, and hence of any sudden calamity that falls on a man.
p. 1591 Said to refer to Balaam, but also to several pretenders of prophecy amongst the Arabians. By some it is referred to '[...]
p. 1601 The word yul'hidûna is used in the later Arabic for any form of atheism. The expression in the text means the pervers[...] 2 Mohammed. 3 Literally, under the influence of the ginn.
p. 1611 This story is said to refer to Adam and Eve; the act of idolatry mentioned being the naming of their first son, at th[...]
p. 1621 I.e. if an evil suggestion occurs to them, they mention God's name and immediately see the folly and wickedness thereof. 2 That is, a verse in the Qur'ân. Footnotes
p. 1641 The occasion alluded to was one when Mohammed had made preparations for attacking an unarmed caravan on its way from [...] 2 The Muslims were fewer in number than the enemy, and the latter had command of the water, at both of which circumstan[...]
p. 1651 Alluding to the alleged miracle of the gravel thrown into the eyes of the Qurâis at the battle of Bedr, to which the [...] 2 An address to the Meccans who, when threatened with an attack from Mohammed, took sanctuary in the Kaabah, and prayed[...]
3 This chapter is without the initial formula 'In the name of God,' &c. The Caliph Othman said that the omission arose [...]
p. 1751 Abu 'l 'Abbâs, Mohammed's uncle, when taken prisoner and reproached with his unbelief, appealed to his having perform[...]
p. 1761 'Honein is the name of a valley about three miles to the north-east of Mecca, where, in the eighth year of the Flight[...] 2 See p. 38, note 2. 3 That is, from the stoppage of traffic and merchandise.
p. 1771 The Moslem tradition is that Ezra, after being dead 100 years, was raised to life, and dictated from memory the whole[...] 2 Alluding to the word rabbi, which in Arabic is applied to God alone.
p. 1781 The pagan Arabs used to put off the observance of a sacred month when it was inconvenient to them and observe another[...]
p. 1791 The prophet. 2 That is, with only one companion, namely Abubekr.
p. 1801 That is, excuse me from the fighting in the cause of religion. 2 I.e. victory or martyrdom.
p. 1811 I.e. in collecting or distributing them. 2 Reconciled, that is, to Islâm. 3 That is, reproach or quarrel with the prophet; I have used the old fashion English expression in order to preserve th[...]
p. 1821 Chapter of the Qur'ân. 2 I.e. are niggardly and refuse to give alms.
p. 1831 Sodom and Gomorrah. 2 A plot had been set afoot at Medînah to kill Mohammed, and was only abandoned because of the increased trade and pros[...]
p. 2021 I.e. adapt them by their position and construction to become places in which prayer may be performed.
p. 2031 This is supposed to be the taunting reply of the angel Gabriel. 2 Compare Exodus xiv. 30. The Mohammedan legend is that as some of the children of Israel doubted whether Pharaoh was re[...]
p. 2091 Tannûr (oven) signifies also a reservoir of water. Its use in this passage has, however, given rise to some ridiculou[...] 2 This story and the further allusion to Noah's son in the next page were probably suggested by Genesis ix. 20-25.
p. 2101 The ark. 2 Gûdî is a corruption apparently for Mount Giordi, the Gordyæi of the Greeks, situated between Armenia and Mesopotamia. 3 I.e. upon some of the nations who are to form the posterity of thyself and the members of thy family saved with thee.
p. 2141 I.e. some support, such as a powerful clan or chieftain. 2 That is, overturned the cities of the plain. 3 The Abyssinians, who had invaded Mecca some years before, are mentioned in the Chapter of the Elephant (CV) as being [...] 4 The legend is that they each contained the name of the person for whom they were destined; so the old saying, 'every [...] 5 I.e. the same punishment is likely to overtake other wrong-doers, the threat being especially directed against the un[...] 6 See Chapter VII. 7 A little which God leaves you after paying every one his due.
p. 2161 The word used is that always applied by desert Arabs to going to a spring for water.
p. 2171 I.e. unless He please to increase their happiness.
p. 2261 The goods which they had brought to barter, or the money they had paid for the corn. 2 Commentators differ as to whether this means that what they had brought was insufficient, or whether the additional m[...] 3 By some unavoidable hindrance.
p. 2271 I.e. by the law of Egypt it was not lawful for Joseph to take his brother for a bondsman as a punishment for theft.
p. 2331 Guardian angels. 2 I.e. hope of rain; lightning is always hailed with joy by the Arabs as a precursor of rain.
p. 2361 They would not believe. 2 The word used in the original, yâi'as, means 'despair,' but in the patois of the Na'ha'h tribe signifies 'know,' and [...]
p. 2371 See p. 2, note 2. 2 Alluding to the conquests of Islâm. Footnotes
p. 2391 This may, according to the Arab idiom, mean either 'battles' in which God had given victory to the believers; or simp[...] 2 Easterns, when annoyed, always bite their hands; see Chapter III, verse 115.
p. 2401 Sale and Rodwell have softened down this filthy expression, one rendering it 'filthy water' and the other 'tainted wa[...]
p. 2491 Addressed to Mohammed. 2 On the road from the territory of the Qurâis to Syria. 3 The Midianites, who are spoken of as dwelling in a grove, and to whom Jethro, or, as he is called in the Qur'ân, Sho'[...] 4 I.e. both Sodom and Midian. 5 The tribe of Thamûd, see p. 146. 6 The Opening Chapter, which contains seven verses, and is p. 250 named the Seven of Repetition (sab'h al Mathânî), fro[...]
p. 2501 The unbelievers. 2 Behave with humility and gentleness. 3 Probably referring to the Jews and Christians who are here and elsewhere accused of mutilating and altering the Script[...]
p. 2561 See note 2, p. 132. 2 The Arabs used to call the angels 'daughters of God.' They, however, objected strongly (as do the modern Bedawîn) to [...]
p. 2571 The Arab writers mention several varieties of honey differing in colour, and some of which are used as medicine.
p. 2591 'Tents' are called 'houses of hair' or 'of hide' by the desert Arabs. 2 Of mail.
p. 2601 The Meccans. 2 The Arabs, like most half-savage tribes, used to consider superior numerical strength as entitling them to disregard [...]
p. 2611 See p. 50, note 2. 2 Gabriel. 3 See p. 15, note 1. 4 For an account of the persons supposed to have helped Mohammed in the compilation of the Qur'ân, see Introduction.
p. 2621 The Ansârs. 2 Any town, but Mecca in particular. 3 Literally, 'taste.'
p. 2631 See p. 134. 2 Some commentators take this word ummatan as equivalent to imâman, 'antistes,' and this interpretation I have followed[...]
p. 2641 This passage refers to the killing of 'Hamzah, Mohammed's uncle, at the battle of O'hod, and the subsequent mutilation[...]
p. 11 Also called 'The Children of Israel.' The subject of Mohammed's miraculous journey in one night from Mecca to Jerusale[...] 2 The Kaabah at Mecca. 3 The Temple at Jerusalem. 4 The Mohammedan commentators interpret this as referring the first to either Goliath, Sennacherib, or Nebuchadnezzar, a[...]
p. 21 Supply, 'we sent foes.' 2 I.e. 'fortune' or 'fate,' literally, 'bird;' the Arabs, like the ancient Romans, having been used to practise divinati[...]
p. 41 I.e. if you are compelled to leave them in order to seek your livelihood; or if your present means are insufficient to[...] 2 See Part I, p. 256, note 2.
p. 61 I.e. they are not to provoke the idolaters by speaking too roughly to them so as to exasperate them.
p. 71 Sale interprets this to mean 'the angels and prophets.' Rodwell remarks that it is an 'obvious allusion to the saint w[...] 2 The Zaqqûm; see Chapter XXXVII, verse 60. The vision p. 8 referred to is the night journey to heaven, although those [...]
p. 91 The commentators say that this refers to a treaty proposed by the tribe of THaqîf, who insisted, as a condition of th[...]
p. 101 According to some, the soul generally; but according to others, and more probably, the angel Gabriel as the agent of [...]
p. 131 The Arabs whom Mohammed addressed seem to have imagined that he meant by Allâh and Ar-ra'hmân (the Merciful One) two s[...] 2 This command is obeyed by the Muslims frequently pronouncing the phrase Allâhu akbar, especially as an expression of [...]
p. 141 This is the well-known story of the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus. What is meant by Er-raqîm no one knows. The most genera[...] 2 That is, the youths themselves or the people they met on their awakening.
p. 161 That is, the Christians. 2 Mohammed being asked by the Jews concerning the number of the Seven Sleepers, had promised to bring them a revelation [...] 3 This expression Sale takes to be ironical, and translates, 'make thou him to see and hear;' Rodwell renders it, 'look [...]
p. 171 Said to refer to Ommâiyet ibn 'Half, who had requested Mohammed to give up his poorer followers to please the Qurâis; [...]
p. 181 In the original Mâ sâ' allâh; this is the usual formula for expressing admiration among Muslims.
p. 191 I.e. wrung his hands. 2 In the hand of each.
p. 201 This passage is aimed at the Qurâis. The.' course of those of yore' is the punishment inflicted on the 'people of Noa[...]
p. 211 The word used signifies a space of eighty years and upwards. 2 Literally, 'of their intermediate space.' 3 See Part II, note 3, p. 23.
p. 221 That is, embarked. All nautical metaphors in Arabic being taken from camel riding. The Arabs do not call the camel 'th[...]
p. 231 The expression wanted to fall is colloquial in Arabic as well as in English. Bâi.dhâvî says, 'the expression wanting t[...] 2 That is, every whole or sound ship. 3 For this legend there appears to be no ancient authority whatever; the Mohammedan commentators merely expand it, and s[...]
p. 241 Literally, 'the two horned;' this personage is generally supposed to be Alexander the Great, who is so represented on [...] 2 Probably, as Bâi.dhâvî suggests, the ocean, which, with its dark waters, would remind an Arab of such a pool.
p. 251 Gog and Magog. The people referred to appear to be tribes of the Turkomans, and the rampart itself has been identified[...] 2 The process here described for repressing the incursions of Gog and Magog is the building of a wall of pig iron across[...] 3 Gog and Magog. 4 On the day of judgment, or, as some think, a little before it.
p. 261 Here the Persian word Firdâus is used, which has supplied the name to the abode of the blessed in so many languages.
p. 311 Generally identified with Enoch. 2 Amongst various conjectures the one most usually accepted p. 32 by the Mohammedan commentators is, that these are th[...]
p. 321 This is interpreted by some to mean that all souls, good and bad, must pass through hell, but that the good will not b[...]
p. 331 'Hâsîy ibn Wâil, being indebted to 'Habbâb, refused to pay him unless he renounced Mohammed. This 'Habbâb said he wou[...] 2 That is, the false gods. Footnotes
p. 351 The Arabs used to light fires to guide travellers to shelter and entertainment. These fires, 'the fire of hospitality[...] 2 This may be also rendered, 'I almost conceal it (from myself);' i'hfâ'un having, like many words in Arabic, two meanin[...]
p. 361 The Muslim legend is that Moses burnt his tongue with a live coal when a child. This incident is related at length, t[...] 2 Literally, vizîr, 'vizier,' 'one who bears the burden' of office. 3 I.e. 'strengthen me.' The idiom is still in common use amongst the desert Arabs.
p. 381 I.e. the festival. 2 In order that they might all see. 3 Or, 'your most eminent men,' as some commentators interpret it, i.e. the children of Israel.
p. 401 I.e. the Samaritan; some take it to mean a proper name, in order to avoid the anachronism.
p. 411 A handful of dust from the footprint of the angel Gabriel's p. 42 horse, which, being cast into the calf, caused it t[...]
p. 421 The idea conveyed seems to be that he should be regarded as a leper, and obliged to warn people from coming near him. [...] 2 Because 'blue eyes' were especially detested by the Arabs as being characteristic of their greatest enemies, the Greek[...]
p. 431 That is, the angel who is to summon them to judgment, and from whom none can escape, or who marches straight on. 2 Cf. Part II, p. 16, note 2.
p. 511 Literally, 'they turned upside down upon their heads,' the metaphor implying that they suddenly changed their opinion [...] 2 See Part I, p. 17, note 1.
p. 521 This case, say the commentators, being brought before David and Solomon, David said that the owner of the field should[...] 2 This legend, adopted from the Talmud, arises from a too literal interpretation of Psalm cxlviii. 3 The legend of Solomon, his seal inscribed with the holy name by which he could control all the powers of nature, his c[...]
p. 531 That is, Elias, or, as some say, Joshua, and some say Zachariah, so called because he had a portion from God Most High[...] 2 Literally, 'he of the fish,' that is, Jonah. 3 See Part II, p. 27. 4 The word 'ummatun' is here used in the sense rather of p. 54 'religion,' regarding the various nations and generations[...]
p. 541 See Part II, p. 25. 2 'Hadab, some read gadath, 'grave.' 3 See Part I, p. 4, l. I.
p. 551 Es-Sigill is the name of the angel who has charge of the book on which each human being's fate is written, which book [...] 2 Psalm xxxvii. 29.Footnotes
p. 581 Namely, the believers and the misbelievers.
p. 591 The first ten days of DHu 'l 'Higgeh, or the tenth day of that month, when the sacrifices were offered in the vale of [...] 2 Such as not shaving their heads and other parts of their bodies, or cutting their beards and nails, which are forbidde[...] 3 This means by presenting fine and comely offerings.
p. 621 Some say that the word tamannâ means 'reading,' and the passage should then be translated, 'but that when he read Sata[...] 2 Either 'the day of resurrection,' as giving birth to no day after it, or, 'a day of battle and defeat,' that makes mot[...]
p. 631 As it will do at the last day. The words of the text might also be rendered 'withholds the rain,' though the commentat[...]
p. 661 See Part I, p. 126, note 2. 2 That is, 'seven heavens.'
p. 681 Or, 'religion.' 2 Literally, 'into Scriptures,' i.e. into sects, each appealing to a particular book.
p. 691 I.e. their works are far different to the good works just described. 2 At their possession of the Kaabah. The Qurâis are meant.
p. 701 The famine which the Meccans suffered; and which was attributed to Mohammed's denunciations. 2 Their defeat at Bedr.
p. 711 I.e. by doing good for evil, provided that the cause of Islâm suffers nothing from it. 2 I.e. back to life. The plural is used 'by way of respect,' say the commentators.
p. 721 To our evil ways. 2 That is, the recording angels. Footnotes
p. 741 He would punish you. 2 This passage and what follows refers to the scandal about Mohammed's favourite wife Ayesha, who, having been accidenta[...]
p. 751 Abu bekr had sworn not to do anything more for a relation of his, named Mista'h, who had taken part in spreading the [...]
p. 771 Or, according to some, of deficient intellect. 2 I.e. they are not to tinkle their bangles or ankle-rings. 3 I.e. a document allowing them to redeem themselves on payment of a certain sum. 4 Abdallah ibn Ubbâi, mentioned in Part II, p. 74, note 2, had six slave girls whom he compelled to live by prostitution[...] 5 I.e. like the stories of Joseph, Part I, p. 221, and the Virgin p. 78 Mary, Part II, p. 29, both of whom, like Ayesha[...]
p. 791 I.e. masses of cloud as large as mountains.
p. 801 The construction of the original is vague, and the commentators themselves make but little of it. The most approved re[...]
p. 811 I.e. at the times when persons are undressed, namely, to rise in the morning, to sleep at noon, and to retire for the [...]
p. 821 The Arabs in Mohammed's time were superstitiously scrupulous about eating in any one's house but their own. 2 That is, do not address the prophet without some respectful title.
p. 831 In Arabic Al Furqân, which is one of the names of the Qur'ân.
p. 841 Another reading of the text is, 'ye cannot.'
p. 851 The ancient Arabs used this formula when they met an enemy during a sacred month, and the person addressed would then [...] 2 See Chapter III, verse 115. 3 That is, followed him.
p. 861 Like the Pentateuch and Gospels, which were revealed all at once, according to the Mohammedan tradition. 2 Or it may be rendered, 'slowly and distinctly;' the whole revelation of the Qur'ân extends over a period of twenty-thr[...] 3 The commentators do not know where to place ar Rass; some say it was a city in Yamâmah, others that it was a well near[...]
p. 871 That is, the idolatrous Meccans; see Part I, p. 249, note 2. 2 That is, either the Qur'ân, cf. Part II, p. 5, line 25; Or the words may be rendered, 'We distribute it' (the rain), &c.
p. 881 That is, that if a man chose to expend anything for the cause of God he can do so.
p. 891 For prayer. 2 See Part I, p, 135, note 1. 3 In Paradise.
p. 981 The Qur'ân. 2 The angel Gabriel. 3 The Qur'ân. 4 Infidelity. 5 See Part I, p. 50. 6 See Part I, p. 250, note 2.
p. 991 Or, it may be thy going to and fro amongst believers, as Mohammed is reported to have done one night, to see what they[...] 2 That is, by listening at the door of heaven; see Part I, p. 50, note 2. 3 That is, in what condition they shall be brought before God. Footnotes
p. 1081 Hâmân, according to the Qur'ân, is made out to be the prime minister of Pharaoh. 2 Either devoid of patience, according to some, or of anxiety, according to others, or it may be to everything but the t[...] 3 That is, Moses was made to refuse the breast of the Egyptian woman before his sister came to offer her services, and p[...]
2 This sage is generally identified with the Aesop of the Greeks. The legends current in the East concerning him accord [...] 3 An Na.dhr ibn al 'Hareth had purchased in Persia some of the old legends of Rustam and Isfendiâr, which were afterwards[...]
p. 1371 I.e. the torment of this world as well as that of the next. 2 This may refer to the alleged meeting of Mohammed and Moses in heaven during the 'night journey;' or it may be transl[...]
p. 1381 When this sûrah was written Medînah was besieged by a confederation of the Jewish tribes with the Arabs of Mecca, Negd[...] 2 The Arabs were in the habit of divorcing their wives on certain occasions with the words, 'Thy back is to me as my p. [...]
p. 1391 The Muhâgerîn. 2 See Part I, p. 57, note 1. 3 Of angels.
p. 1401 On the approach of the confederate army, to the number of 12,000, Mohammed, by the advice of Selmân the Persian, order[...] 2 The ancient name of the city; it was only called 'El Medînah, 'the city,' after it had become famous by giving shelter[...] 3 In the trenches. 4 I.e. if the confederates had effected an entry, these half-hearted persons would have listened to their proposals, and[...]
p. 1411 I.e. chary of helping you, but greedy of the spoils. 2 I.e. the best share of the spoils.
p. 1421 I.e. their vow to fight till they obtained martyrdom. 2 I.e. changed their mind. 3 I.e. who had helped the confederates. 4 The Qurâithah Jews, whom Mohammed attacked after the siege of Medînah had been raised, and punished for their treache[...] 5 Mohammed being annoyed by the demands made by his wives for costly dresses and the like, offered them the choice of di[...]
p. 1431 Here the pronoun is changed from feminine to masculine, and the passage is appealed to by the Shiahs as showing the in[...] 2 I.e. Muslims; see Part I, p. 15, note 1.
p. 1441 I.e. divorced her. 2 Zâid was Mohammed's freedman and adopted son. Mohammed had seen and admired Zâid's wife Zâinab, and her husband at onc[...]
p. 1451 The same word is used as is rendered 'pray' in all the other passages in the Qur'ân, though the commentators interpret[...] 2 Either, 'do not ill-treat them,' or, 'take no notice of their ill-treating thee.'
p. 1461 I.e. dowry. 2 Slave girls. 3 I.e. from her turn of conjugal rights. 4 I.e. divorced.
p. 1471 He would be reluctantly obliged to ask you to leave. 2 The tent of an Arab chief is looked upon as a place of general entertainment, and is always besieged by visitors. The [...] 3 The prophet's wives. 4 The women to the present day always remain behind a curtain which screens off their part of the tent from the rest, bu[...] 5 The prophet's wives.
p. 1491 The occasion of the revelation of this verse is said to have been that Mohammed being accused of unfairly dividing cer[...] 2 That is, 'the faith.'
p. 1631 The Umm al Kitâb. See Part I, p. 2, note 2.
p. 1641 The legend is that Jesus sent two of His disciples to the city of Antioch, none believing them but one 'Habîb en Naggâ[...]
p. 1651 There is a various reading here, 'and has no place of rest.' 2 Some take this to refer to Noah's ark. 3 That is, the punishment of this world and the next.
p. 1671 Mohammed. 2 I.e. they are ready to defend their false gods. Footnotes
p. 1681 Driving the clouds or 'scaring the devils.' 2 See Part I, p. 50, note 2. 3 The people of Mecca.
p. 1691 That is, with a good omen. 2 See Chapter XV, verse 47.
p. 1701 Ez Zaqqûm is a foreign tree with an exceedingly bitter fruit, the name of which is here used for the infernal tree. 2 The unbelievers objected that the tree could not grow in hell, where the very stones (see Part I, p. 4, note 1) were f[...]
p. 1711 Mohammedan commentators say that he pretended to a knowledge of astrology and made as though he saw a presage of comin[...] 2 The people of the city.
p. 1721 The Mohammedan theory is that it was Ishmael and not Isaac who was taken as a sacrifice.
p. 1731 Supposed by the Mohammedans to be the same as Al 'Hidhr and Idrîs. 2 This is probably another form of the word Elyâs, on the model of many Hebrew words which have survived in the later A[...] 3 The word used in the text is always applied to runaway slaves.
p. 1741 The Meccans. 2 See Part I, p. 256, note 2. 3 This speech is supposed to be the words of the angel Gabriel. 4 I.e. in the Qur'ân. Footnotes
p. 1751 The Arabic commentators say of this title, 'God only knows what He means by it.' All the explanations given of it are [...]
p. 1761 Some say this refers to the punishment which Pharaoh used to inflict upon those who had offended him, whom he used to [...] 2 The Meccans.
p. 1781 The word in Arabic signifies a horse that stands on three legs and just touches the ground with the fore part of the h[...] 2 The Mohammedan legend, borrowed from the Talmud, is that having conquered the king of Sidon and brought away his daug[...]
p. 1791 The Mohammedan legend is that when Job was undergoing his trials, the devil appeared to his wife and promised, if she [...]
p. 2011 Devils, opposed to the guardian angels of the believers. 2 I.e. interrupt the reading of the Qur'ân by talking, in order to overpower the voice of the reader.
p. 2031 I.e. they would have said, 'What! is the revelation in a foreign tongue, and we who are expected to read it Arabs?' Th[...]
p. 2041 Or the words may be rendered, 'There is good with him still due to me.'
p. 2111 See Part I, p. 2, note 2. 2 I.e. the Meccans.
p. 2121 I.e. of the birth of a daughter, see Part I, p. 256, note 2. 2 I.e. what! do they assign children of this kind, viz. daughters, to God? 3 I.e. a scripture authorising the practice of their religion, such as the worship of angels and the ascribing of daught[...]
p. 2131 I.e. had it been sent down to some man of influence and importance in Mecca and Tâ'if we would have received it.
p. 2141 I.e. the east and west, though some understand it between the two solstices.
p. 2151 See p. 36, note 1. 2 The Arabs objected that Jesus was worshipped by Christians as a God, and that when Mohammed cursed their false gods, t[...] 3 Just as Jesus was miraculously conceived, so can miraculously conceived offspring be produced among the Meccans themselves. 4 Some read, 'a sign,' which is perhaps better. The reference is to the predicted second advent of the Messiah, which is[...]
p. 2171 Mâlik is the keeper of hell, and presides over the tortures of the damned. 2 The word used signifies twisting up the strands of a rope. 3 I.e. the recording angel. 4 Mohammed. Footnotes
p. 2331 Some of the commentators take this to mean sins committed by Mohammed before his call and after; others refer the word[...] 2 Or tranquillity; see Part I, p. 38, note 2.
p. 2341 Alluding to certain tribes who held aloof from the expedition of 'Hudâibîyeh.
p. 2351 In an expedition against the Jews of Khâibar, which Mohammed undertook shortly after his return from 'Hudâibîyeh, and [...] 2 The followers of Musâilimah, Mohammed's rival, and the tribes that had apostatized from Islâm. Some think it refers to[...]
p. 2361 At 'Hudâibîyeh. 2 See Part I, p. 38, note 2. 3 Either the success at Khâibar or the taking of Mecca. 4 Alluding to the truce concluded at 'Hudâibîyeh. 5 Mohammed having only set out with the intention of peaceably performing the pilgrimage, carried cattle with him to sac[...]
p. 2371 Suhail ibn 'Amr, who concluded the truce with Mohammed at 'Hudâibîyeh, objected to the formula 'In the name of the mer[...] 2 The Mohammedan profession of faith, 'There is no god but God, and Mohammed His servant is the Apostle.' Or it may be t[...] 3 Mohammed dreamed that he would accomplish the pilgrimage to Mecca with all its rites; the affair at 'Hudâibîyeh disapp[...] 4 I.e. that of Khâibar.
2 Said to refer to a dispute between Abu Bekr and 'Omar, in the course of which they came to high words in the presence [...]
p. 2391 Two of the Arabs wishing to speak with Mohammed when he was sleeping at noon in his harîm, cried out rudely to him, Mo[...] 2 Al Walîd ibn 'Hugbâ was sent by Mohammed to collect the zakât (see Introduction, p. lxxiii) from the tribe of Mustaleq[...] 3 I.e. ye would mislead him. 4 Alluding to one of the frequent disputes between the tribes of Aus and 'Hazrag at Medînah. See Introduction, p. xxxiv.
p. 2401 I.e. it is defamation to charge a person who has embraced the faith with iniquity. The passage is said to have been re[...]
p. 2421 Alluding to the various opinions expressed by the unbelievers with reference to the Qur'ân; some calling it sorcery or[...] 2 See Part II, p. 86, note 3. 3 See Part I, p. 249, note 3. 4 See Chapter XLIV, verse 35, p. 219, note 3.
p. 2431 The two recording angels, who accompany every man and note down his every word and action. 2 These words are supposed to be addressed by the 'driver' to the unbelieving soul. 3 These words are spoken by God.
p. 2441 I.e. from the vengeance of God. 2 A protest against the assertion that God rested on the seventh day. 3 Two sigdahs used at the evening prayers, but not incumbent on the worshipper. 4 I.e. a place from which all men may hear; generally supposed by Muslims to be the temple at Jerusalem. 5 The sound of the last trumpet. Footnotes
p. 2451 The winds. 2 The clouds. 3 The ships. 4 Angels or winds.
p. 2461 I.e. rain, which produces material sustenance, and there too is the promise of the future life. 2 I.e. unreserved and plain as ye yourselves affirm truths to each other. 3 See Part I, pp. 212-214. 4 See Part I, p. 214, note 1.
p. 2471 Either Pharaoh's forces, or one of his nobles, or something else on which he relied. See Part I, p. 214, first line, a[...]
p. 2481 I.e. this taunt. 2 I.e. like the fate of those who wronged the apostles of old. Footnotes
3 I.e. either the Kaabah itself or the model of it, said to exist in the heavens and to be frequented by the angels. 4 I.e. of heaven.
p. 2491 Every man is pledged to God for his conduct, and, if he does well, redeems himself. 2 At the thought of the next life.
p. 2501 Addressed to Mohammed. 2 I.e. a ladder reaching to the gates of heaven, upon which they may stand and listen to the angels discoursing, as the [...]
p. 2511 At the sound of the last trumpet. 2 I.e. beside the torment of the judgment day they shall be punished with defeat and loss here. Footnotes
3 The angel Gabriel, who appeared twice to Mohammed in his natural form, namely, on the occasion of the 'Night journey,'[...]
p. 2521 See Introduction, p. xxvii, and Part II, p. 62, note 1. 2 See Introduction, pp. xii and xiii.
p. 2531 This passage refers to one El Walîd ibn Mughâirah, who being abused for following Mohammed and forsaking the religion [...]
p. 2541 I.e. the resurrection. 2 Sirius, or the Dog-star, was an object of worship amongst the ancient Arabs. 3 Sodom, Gomorrah, &c. 4 At this verse the Qurâis, who were present at the first reading of this chapter when their gods were spoken well of, [...]
p. 2551 According to a tradition this refers to a miracle: the unbelievers having asked for a sign, the moon appeared to be c[...] 2 This word is interpreted by some to mean 'transient,' by others 'powerful.' 3 The Qur'ân. 4 The angel Isrâfîl. 5 The last judgment.
p. 2631 I.e. the foremost in professing the faith on earth shall be the foremost then. 2 The mimosa gummifera is generally so called in Arabia; but the banana is said to be meant in this passage. 3 The celestial damsels.
p. 2641 I.e. for seed and labour. 2 From reaping the fruits of it.
p. 2651 The ancient Arabs produced fire by the friction of a stick in a hollow piece of wood. Cf. p. 167, line 25. 2 2 The soul of a dying man. Footnotes
p. 2701 Khâulah bint THa'labah being divorced from her husband by the formula mentioned below, and which was always considered[...] 2 I.e. divorce them by the formula 'Thou art to me as my mother's back!' See Part I, p. 43, note 4.
p. 2711 Instead of saying, Es salâm 'halaika, 'peace be upon thee!' they used to say, Es sâm 'halaika, 'mischief be upon thee!'
p. 2741 The Jews of en Na.dhîr, near Medînah, who at first promised to stand neuter between him and the idolaters. After his s[...] 2 Like those of Qurâi.dhah, who were slaughtered. See Introduction, p. xxxix. 3 The Muslims did not use cavalry on the occasion, Mohammed himself being the only mounted member of the expedition. For[...]
p. 2751 The poorer Muhâgerîn were allowed to participate in the spoils, but not the Ansârs. 2 The Ansârs at Medînah. 3 The Muhâgerîn. 4 The Jews.
p. 2761 Either the idolaters slain at Bedr, or the Jews of Qâinuqâh, or those of Na.dhîr. Footnotes
p. 2811 Who fight in close and unbroken lines. 2 Ahmed is equivalent in meaning to Mohammed, and means 'Praised,' 'Laudable.' The allusion is to the promise of the Par[...]
p. 2821 Ansâr. 2 See Part I, p. 53 (Chapter III, verse 45). Footnotes
3 See Introduction, p. xlvii, and Part I, p. 156, note.
p. 2831 I.e. by embracing Islâm. 2 Friday, called before this 'Harûbah. It was the day on which Mohammed entered Medînah for the first time. 3 It is said that one Friday a caravan entered the town while Mohammed was conducting the public prayers, and the congre[...]
p. 2841 The disaffected portion of the inhabitants of Medînah. See Introduction, p. xxxiv. 2 Or, by a various reading, 'their oaths.' 3 Abdallah ibn Ubai, the leader of the 'Hypocrites' (see Introduction, p. xxxv), was a man of fine presence and eloquen[...] 4 I.e. though of tall and imposing presence, they are really like mere logs.
p. 2871 I.e. both the righteous and the wicked will disappoint each other by reversing their positions, the wicked being puni[...] 2 This expression seems to indicate that this verse at least was revealed at Medînah. Footnotes
p. 2881 When they have had three periods of menstruation; or, if they prove with child, after their delivery. See Part I, p. 34. 2 I.e. whether God may not reconcile them again.
p. 2951 The Arabic name of the letter nûn signifies both 'a fish' and 'an inkstand;' the symbol is by some supposed to refer [...] 2 For bearing so meekly the insults of the misbelievers. 3 The person meant is, probably, Walîd ibn Mughâirah, the inveterate enemy of the prophet.
p. 2961 I.e. they did not add, 'If God please!' 2 Or, according to another interpretation, 'with a determined purpose.'------------------------------------------------
p. 2971 An expression signifying any great calamity or battle, because the non-combatants gird up their loins to be ready for[...] 2 Jonah.
p. 3001 The person referred to is said to have been either Abu Gahl, who challenged Mohammed to cause a portion of the heaven[...] 2 Either steps by which the prayers of the righteous or the angels ascend to heaven; or the word may refer to the vario[...]
p. 3011 Cf. Chapter XXXII, verse 4, p. 135. 2 Cf. Chapter XVII, verse 12, p. 2.
p. 3021 Cf. pp. 262, 263. 2 I.e. of the east and the west; or of the various points of the horizon at which the sun rises and sets in the course o[...]
p. 3111 I.e. the revelation; see p. 16, note 2, and p. 43, note 2. The words are addressed to Mohammed by the angel Gabriel. 2 I.e. in the death struggle. 3 Or did not give in charity. Footnotes
2 While in the womb. 3 Name of a river in Paradise, so called because it is white, cool, and sweet-smelling, as camphor is.
p. 3131 Zamharîr, the word here rendered 'piercing cold,' is by some authorities interpreted to mean 'the moon.' 2 Zingabîl signifies 'ginger.' Footnotes
p. 3181 Referring to the angel of death and his assistants, who tear away the souls of the wicked violently, and gently relea[...] 2 The angels who precede the souls of the righteous to Paradise. 3 The trumpet blast at the last day, which shall make the universe quake. 4 See Chapter XX, verse 12, p. 35.
p. 3211 Such camels being among the most valuable of an Arab's possessions, neglect of them must imply some terribly engrossi[...] 2 The terrors of the judgment day will drive all the wild beasts together for mutual shelter.
p. 3221 See Part I, p. 132, note 3, and p. 256, note 2. See also Introduction, p. x. 2 Gabriel. 3 See Chapter LIII, verses 1-19, pp. 251, 252. 4 Some copies have a various reading, 'suspicious of.' 5 See Part I, note 2, pp. 50, 51.
2 Literally, 'towers.' 3 Various interpretations are given of these words, the most probable perhaps being that 'the witness' is Mohammed, and[...] 4 Alluding to the persecution of the Christians at Negrân by p. 327 DHu 'n Navvâs, king of Yemen, who had embraced the [...]
2 The first ten nights of the sacred months of DHu 'l Heggeh. 3 Sheddâd, the son of 'Âd, is related to have ordered the construction of a terrestrial paradise in the desert of Aden,[...]
p. 3311 Cf. p. 176, note 1. 2 Cf. Part I, p. 72, note 1.
2 The five opening verses of the chapter are generally allowed to have been the first that were revealed. See Introduct[...] 3 I.e. Mohammed. 4 The allusion is to Abu Gahl, who threatened to set his foot on Mohammed's neck if he caught him in the act of adoration.
2 The commentators say that in one of the frequent contentions about the respective nobility of the Arab tribes, that t[...] 3 That is, the pleasures of this life.
3 Or, according to a traditional explanation given by the prophet to 'Âyeshah, 'the moon when it is eclipsed.' 4 Witches who make knots in string and blow upon them, uttering at the same time some magical formula and the name of th[...]
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