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The Concept of “Naha” in the Quran

In Sura 40:66, the root “Naha” (نُهِيتُ) appears as “nuheetu” (نُهِيتُ), which means “I have been enjoined” (نُهِيتُ) or “I have been forbidden” (نُهِيتُ). This root ن-ه-ي (N-H-Y) signifies prohibiting, enjoining, or restraining. In this context, the verse refers to the Prophet being prohibited from worshiping anything besides God.

“Say, ‘I have been enjoined (نُهِيتُ) from worshiping the idols you worship beside God, now that clear revelations have come to me from my Lord. I am commanded to submit to the Lord of the universe.’”
(40:66)

The term “enjoined” (نُهِيتُ) refers to commanding or prohibiting an action with authority. In the Quran, “Naha” functions to convey both prohibitions and enjoinments.

Prohibitive Contexts

Several verses explicitly use “Naha” to highlight prohibitions. These guide believers to refrain from harmful actions and unethical behaviors.

For example, Surah Al-Baqarah prohibits usury (ربا) through the root “Naha”:

“God permits commerce, and prohibits (نَهَى) usury. Thus, whoever heeds this commandment from his Lord and refrains from usury, he may keep his past earnings, and his judgment rests with God. As for those who persist in usury, they incur Hell, wherein they abide forever.”
(2:275)

Surah Al-A’raf also employs “Naha” to emphasize the prohibition against immoral behavior and transgression:

“Say, ‘My Lord prohibits (نَهَى) only evil deeds, be they obvious or hidden, and sins, and unjustifiable aggression, and to set up beside God powerless idols, and to say about God what you do not know.’”
(7:33)

Additionally, Surah Al-An’am discusses prohibitions regarding what is lawful for consumption:

“He has detailed for you what is prohibited (نَهَى) for you, unless you are forced by necessity. Indeed, many people mislead others with their personal opinions, without knowledge. Your Lord is fully aware of the transgressors.”
(6:119)

Enjoining Contexts

The root “Naha” (نَهَى) is also used to encourage believers towards righteous actions. These verses direct individuals towards ethical behavior that benefits society and spiritual growth.

In Surah An-Nahl, both enjoinments (نَهَى) of justice and charity are emphasized while prohibiting immoral behavior:

“God advocates justice, charity, and regarding the relatives. And He forbids (ينهى) evil, vice, and transgression. He enlightens you, that you may take heed.”
(16:90)

Conclusion

The Quran uses the root “Naha” (نَهَى) to encapsulate both prohibitions and enjoinments, guiding believers away from harmful practices while directing them towards positive ethical behavior. Understanding this balance allows believers to live according to God’s divine guidance, as emphasized in the Quran.

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