Quran 4:34 – Meaning Of Daraba
I also want to raise a few points and talke about the meaning of Daraba. Please let me know what could be wrong or how they could be strong or plausible argument. They are as follows: The Context of the Verse: The Quran outlines a step-by-step approach to dealing with marital discord: Advise the wife (dialogue and reasoning). Separate in bed (withdraw intimacy to emphasize seriousness). Daraba (commonly translated as “strike”). What Does “Daraba” Mean? In Classical Arabic , “daraba” has a wide range of meanings, including: To strike (lightly or symbolically). To separate or part ways. To take a decisive or conclusive action. In pre-Islamic Arabic poetry and prose, “daraba” was often used metaphorically to signify ending a relationship or breaking an agreement. Example from Classical Poetry: An example from pre-Islamic poetry demonstrates this metaphorical use: “ضربت عليه الحبيب بالسيف القاطع” (“I struck off the beloved with a cutting sword.”) Here, “struck off” does not mean literal violence but rather the act of severing the emotional bond or relationship. The Prophetic Example: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) never hit his wives and strongly condemned violence against women. He said, “The best of you are those who are best to their wives.” Scholars emphasize that any interpretation of “daraba” must align with his example of kindness and mercy. Interpretation as Separation: Some scholars interpret “daraba” as separation or divorce , especially since the word was used metaphorically in pre-Islamic Arabic to signify breaking an agreement or relationship. This aligns with the Quran’s gradual approach to conflict resolution and its principles of justice and compassion. Why Not Use “Talaq” Instead? While the Quran uses “talaq” (divorce) elsewhere, “daraba” may have been chosen here to emphasize a broader, metaphorical sense of separation or finality rather than the legal act of divorce. Other Examples of Linguistic Precision in the Quran: The Quran often uses different words to explain the same concept with nuanced meanings: Fear: Khawf, Taqwa, Khashyah . Punishment: ‘Adhab, Bala’, Sujur . Rain: Matar, Ghaith, Wadq . Similarly, “daraba” was likely chosen for its broad and reflective meaning, inviting interpretation based on context. Conclusion: “Daraba” in Surah An-Nisa (4:34) is best understood as a symbolic or final act —whether separation, decisiveness, or divorce—meant to resolve a serious marital conflict after all other steps have failed. It does not condone violence or harm , as this contradicts both the Quran’s ethical principles and the Prophet’s teachings.