Introduction

The terms 'Sabians' and 'Sabeans' have often been mistaken as interchangeable, but this is not the case. The Sabians in the Quran refer to a distinct religious group, distinct from Saba, a kingdom in South Arabia. This article explores the origins and significance of the term 'Sabians' in the Quran and its relation to the various 'Sabeans' in the Christian world.

The Difference Between Sabians and Saba

While the Sabians in the Quran are often mistakenly associated with Saba, a kingdom in South Arabia, they are not one and the same. The Sabians are explicitly described as a religion in the Quran (2:62, 5:69), different from the ethnic and cultural identity of Saba.

Several scholars suggest that the 'Sabians' mentioned in the Quran may refer to several small religious communities, including the Manichaeans and Mandaeans. The Mandaeans claim to follow the prophet Yahya, while the Harranians in Syria represent a late offshoot of Hellenism.

Quranic Context and Interpretations

The Quran (2:62, 5:69) suggests that believers in God with proper attributes, held accountable for their actions, and who perform good deeds will receive their rewards. Notably, the verse excludes polytheists, even among the Muslim communities.

According to the Quranic definition, polytheism extends beyond merely believing in multiple gods and includes broader aspects such as divine attributes and practices.

Additionally, the word 'Sabean' in the context of the Quran is understood as someone who has converted to another religion. This identification is evident in prophet Muhammad's description as 'sabi'.

Islamic Commentaries on the Term Sabians

Islamic scholars have various interpretations of the term 'Sabians'. Here are some prevalent views:

People with no distinguishable religion: This group declared "There is no god but God" without rites or books or prophets, and did not accept the Prophet Muhammad. Those who worship angels: They faced the qiblah, recited the Psalms, and worshipped angels. Groups of the Book who left their religion: This refers to people who broke away from their previous religious affiliations. People who believe in the religion of Noah: This could be interpreted as a form of early monotheism. Monotheists who believe in the effects of planets: Such belief is considered unorthodox and heretical.

Of the above interpretations, numbers 2 and 5 are less likely according to the context of Quran 2:62. The Quran specifically forbids the worship of angels and belief in the effects of anything other than God.

Interpretation 3 and 4 also require further scrutiny. While group 3 seems illogical to apply to the same verse with Christians/Jews, it is reasonable to assume that the term 'Sabeans' in the Quran could refer to non-denominational Christians or Jews.

Interpretation 4 aligns with the belief that all people, regardless of their religion, who follow the laws of Noah deserve a place in heaven.

Conclusion

The term 'Sabians' in the Quran thus represents a variety of religious communities, distinct from the term 'Saba'. The Quranic mention of 'Sabians' highlights the distinction between adherents of revealed monotheistic religions and those who may have converted or retained their religious identity. This exploration of the term 'Sabian' in the Quran provides valuable insights into the doctrinal diversity of early Islamic commentaries and the broader context of religious affiliation in the region.