th-kh-n

Description

The Arabic root ثخن (th-kh-n) conveys the core meaning of thickness, density, and heaviness, which metaphorically extends to strength and overwhelming force in battle. In the Quranic context, it appears in Surah Al-Anfal (8:67) where it describes how a prophet should not take captives until he has thoroughly subdued and weakened the enemy in the land (athkhana), emphasizing the need for decisive military strength before showing mercy. The root thus signifies the establishment of solid, overwhelming power that leaves no doubt about victory, reflecting the principle that spiritual and physical strength must be firmly established before considering concessions.