Al-Baqara - The Cow
Arabic Name: الْبَقَرَة
Urdu Name: گائے
Type: Madani
Serial Number: 2
Revelation Order: 87
Total Verses: 286
Parah: 1,2,3
Rukus: 40
Sajda: None
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Quick Facts about this Verse
Surah
Al-Baqara
Revealed
Madani
Position
Juz 1,2,3
Explore this Verse
Verse Meaning
According to the classical tafsir of Ibn Kathir, verse 2:223, "Your women are a tilth (ḥarth) for you," was revealed to correct a specific misconception held by some Jewish communities in Medina, who believed that approaching one's wife from the rear for vaginal intercourse would result in a cross-eyed child. This verse liberates marital relations from superstition, permitting any position or manner of approach ('annā shi'tum' - however you will), as long as it is within the 'tilth'—the vagina, the place of cultivation and procreation. A comprehensive synthesis of scholarly works, including those of Al-Tabari and Al-Qurtubi, reveals a profound consensus (ijmā') that this verse, by defining the wife as 'tilth' (a place for planting seed), explicitly and definitively prohibits anal intercourse, which is likened to planting a seed in barren land. The verse thus establishes a framework of freedom and purpose within marriage: freedom of intimate expression to enhance the marital bond, and the ultimate purpose of procreation and 'sending forth good deeds' for one's soul, all framed by the overarching command to maintain taqwa (God-consciousness).
Questions for Reflection
personal
The verse commands, 'and send forth for yourselves.' Reflect on your personal intentions regarding marital intimacy. How can you shift your mindset to view this act not just as a worldly need, but as a good deed you are sending forward for your soul's future with Allah?
relational
The metaphor of 'tilth' (ḥarth) implies cultivation, care, and partnership. How does this beautiful and respectful imagery change the way you view your spouse and the act of intimacy, transforming it from an act of taking to an act of mutual cultivation?
spiritual
The verse concludes with 'And fear Allah and know that you will meet Him.' Why is this powerful reminder about accountability placed immediately after discussing one ofthe most private and intimate human acts? How does this foster Taqwa in your marriage?
Practical Applications
Embrace variety in permissible intimacy to strengthen the marital bond, dispelling cultural taboos or superstitions.
Couples can use this principle to overcome inhibitions shaped by cultural norms rather than Islamic law, leading to a healthier physical relationship.
Shift the intention behind intimacy from solely pleasure-seeking to include the goal of procreation and raising righteous children.
In a world focused on individualism, this encourages couples to see their union as foundational for building the future of the Muslim community.
Practice the supplication (du'a) before intimacy: 'Bismillah, Allahumma jannibna-sh-shaitan, wa jannibi-sh-shaitan ma razaqtana.'
This simple act transforms a private moment into a conscious act of worship and trust in Allah's plan for one's family.
Hidden Gem
The synthesis of tafsirs reveals that 'annā shi'tum' (however you will) is not just a license but a divine gift of mercy, removing harmful and restrictive superstitions that were prevalent at the time. Contemplate how Islam, in its wisdom, liberates humanity from baseless dogma even in the most intimate matters, replacing it with a framework of purpose, freedom, and divine consciousness.
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Common Questions
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