n-j-s

Description

The Arabic root نجس (n-j-s) carries the core meaning of ritual impurity, defilement, or uncleanliness in both physical and spiritual dimensions. In the Quranic context, it primarily refers to a state of spiritual impurity that separates a person or thing from the sacred realm, often associated with polytheism, moral corruption, or substances that contaminate ritual purity. This concept is significant in establishing boundaries between the pure and impure, particularly in designating who may approach sacred spaces like the Sacred Mosque and in defining the spiritual status of believers versus polytheists.