Entering Houses from the Back
Entering Houses from the Back: The Ethical Integrity of Method (Qur’an 2:189) “They ask you about the new moons. Say: They are measurements of time for people and for Hajj. And it is not righteousness (birr) to enter houses from their backs, but righteousness is in being mindful of Allah. So, enter houses through their doors and be mindful of Allah that you may succeed.” ( Surah al-Baqarah, 2:189 ) I. Context of the Verse: A Question About the Moon, an Answer About the Path Surah al-Baqarah, verse 189, begins seemingly in response to a question about the changing phases of the moon. But the Qur’an does not confine its answer to astronomical details. Instead, it uses this symbol of time regulation to deliver a profound message about intent, method, and the nature of righteousness (birr): “It is not righteousness to enter houses from their backs.” This is not a reference to a literal architectural action, but to the moral legitimacy of the method by which one seeks to reach ...