Question:
What is the translation of ‘نردشير’ in the following Hadith?
من لعب بالنردشير، فكأنما صبغ يده في لحم خنزير ودمه
Answer:
The Hadith in question is recorded in Sahih Muslim.
Sayyiduna Buraydah (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reported that Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Whoever plays backgammon, it is as if he has immersed his hand into the blood and flesh of a swine.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2260)
Nard refers to backgammon as explained in this answer. It is also referred to as ‘Nardashir’ since it was invented by Ardashir ibn Tabak/Babak.
(Refer: Mirqatul Mafatih, Hadith: 4500 and Badhlul Majhud, Hadith: 4938)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar