Nasikh and Mansukh (Arabic: ناسخ ومنسوخ) refer to the concept of abrogation in Islamic jurisprudence and Quranic interpretation. It describes instances where an earlier divine command (Mansukh, abrogated) is replaced or modified by a later command (Nasikh, abrogating). This concept reflects the dynamic nature of the Quran’s gradual revelation over 23 years, addressing the evolving needs of the Muslim community and guiding them progressively toward spiritual and societal maturity.

The concept of Nasikh and Mansukh is supported in the Quran:

• “We do not abrogate a verse or cause it to be forgotten except that We bring forth [one] better than it or similar to it. Do you not know that Allah is over all things competent?” (Quran 2:106)

The Purpose of Nasikh and Mansukh

1. Gradual Implementation of Laws
   • Many Quranic laws were introduced progressively to ease the community’s transition from pre-Islamic practices to Islamic principles. For example, the prohibition of alcohol was revealed in stages.
2. Adapting to Changing Circumstances
   • Some rulings were tailored to specific situations and later replaced as the Muslim community grew and its circumstances changed.
3. Testing Obedience
   • Abrogation tested the believers’ willingness to submit to Allah’s commands, even when they changed.

Types of Nasikh and Mansukh

1. Abrogation of Recitation and Ruling
   • Both the text and the ruling are no longer applicable. For example, some verses were recited during the Prophet’s time but were later removed from the Quran’s final compilation by divine decree.
2. Abrogation of Ruling but Not Recitation
   • The text of the verse remains in the Quran, but its ruling is no longer applicable.
     Example: “If there are among you twenty [who are] steadfast, they will overcome two hundred…” (Quran 8:65)
     This was abrogated by Quran 8:66, which reduced the burden.
3. Abrogation of Recitation but Not Ruling
   • The text is no longer part of the Quran, but the ruling remains in effect. This is a rare category with limited examples in Islamic scholarship.

Examples of Nasikh and Mansukh in the Quran

1. Prohibition of Alcohol
   • The prohibition of alcohol was revealed in stages:
     • “They ask you about wine and gambling. Say, ‘In them is great sin and [yet, some] benefit for people. But their sin is greater than their benefit.’” (Quran 2:219)
     • Later abrogated by: “O you who have believed, do not approach prayer while you are intoxicated…”(Quran 4:43)
     • Finally abrogated by: “Indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters, and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” (Quran 5:90)
2. Change in Qiblah Direction
   • Initially, Muslims prayed toward Jerusalem:
     • “We did not make the Qiblah which you used to face except that We might make evident who would follow the Messenger…” (Quran 2:143)
     • Later abrogated by: “So turn your face toward Al-Masjid al-Haram…” (Quran 2:144)
3. Rulings on Warfare
   • “If there are among you twenty [who are] steadfast, they will overcome two hundred…” (Quran 8:65)
     • Abrogated by: “Now, Allah has lightened [the hardship] for you, and He knows that among you is weakness. So if there are among you one hundred [who are] steadfast, they will overcome two hundred…” (Quran 8:66)

Scholarly Perspectives on Nasikh and Mansukh

Islamic scholars differ on the scope and application of abrogation in the Quran:

1. Acceptance of Abrogation
   • Most scholars accept Nasikh and Mansukh as a valid concept, emphasizing its role in the gradual development of Islamic law and practice.
2. Limitation of Abrogated Verses
   • While some early scholars identified numerous instances of abrogation, later scholars like Imam Suyuti argued that the number of abrogated verses is relatively small.
3. Rational Understanding
   • Scholars emphasize that abrogation reflects Allah’s wisdom in addressing the needs of the community over time.

Misconceptions About Nasikh and Mansukh

1. Not Contradictions
   • Abrogation is not a contradiction but a refinement or replacement of earlier rulings to suit new circumstances.
2. Not Arbitrary
   • Every instance of abrogation serves a clear purpose and aligns with divine wisdom.
3. Does Not Diminish Quran’s Timelessness
   • The Quran remains applicable to all times and places, with abrogation reflecting its adaptability to the needs of humanity.

Lessons from Nasikh and Mansukh

1. Gradualism in Reform
   • Islam’s approach to change demonstrates the importance of gradual reform to ensure effective implementation and acceptance.
2. Flexibility in Divine Guidance
   • The concept of abrogation highlights Allah’s wisdom in providing guidance suited to varying circumstances.
3. Obedience to Allah
   • Abrogation teaches believers to trust Allah’s commands, even when they change, as part of His greater plan.

Conclusion

Nasikh and Mansukh illustrate the dynamic nature of Quranic revelation, demonstrating how Allah’s guidance was tailored to the evolving needs of the early Muslim community. By understanding the reasons and wisdom behind abrogation, Muslims can appreciate the Quran’s flexibility and relevance. This concept underscores the Quran’s role as a comprehensive guide, providing lessons on gradual reform, obedience, and the timeless application of divine principles.

Written by AI.  A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.