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Q&As with Joseph Islam - Information Only / Question about your view on "cutting off" the hand of thieves - For Joseph Islam
« on: July 11, 2016, 02:06:52 AM »
Salam brother Joseph,
I hope this reaches you well in this blessed month of Ramadan. I wanted to ask clarification as to why you translate the word "iqta" as cut off instead of cut. You often rely on the Quranic verse to follow the best of meanings. But the word iqta can clearly mean cut OR cut off, with the latter being much harsher. I understand your argument that the punishment would be reserved for the worst of thieves (as a general and specific deterrent), but I want to understand why you landed on "cut off" being the best of meaning (esp. in light of Surah Yusuf which also references the women cutting their hands).
Thanks,
I hope this reaches you well in this blessed month of Ramadan. I wanted to ask clarification as to why you translate the word "iqta" as cut off instead of cut. You often rely on the Quranic verse to follow the best of meanings. But the word iqta can clearly mean cut OR cut off, with the latter being much harsher. I understand your argument that the punishment would be reserved for the worst of thieves (as a general and specific deterrent), but I want to understand why you landed on "cut off" being the best of meaning (esp. in light of Surah Yusuf which also references the women cutting their hands).
Thanks,