ĀYAH (آية)
Definition
ĀYAH (آية) - In Islamic terminology, the word ĀYAH translates to a “sign” or “miracle.” It is used to specify one of the smaller units or portions of the chapters of the Qurʾān, equivalent to a “verse” in the context of the Qurʾān.
Etymology
- Arabic: آية
- Turkish: Âyet
The Arabic term “آية” (āyah) itself means “a sign” or “miracle,” signifying that each verse of the Qurʾān represents a divine sign and is a piece of the holy mosaic that forms Islam’s primary scripture.
Usage in the Qurʾān
In the Qurʾān:
- Sūrah: Refers to the chapters of the Qurʾān.
- Āyah: Refers to the individual verses within each Sūrah.
Characteristics
The exact number of Āyāt (plural of Āyah) in the Qurʾān is variously estimated, but it is generally agreed that there are about 6,236 verses. These verses are integral to the structure of each Sūrah and are seldom marked in Islamic manuscripts as they are in modern printed Qurʾāns.
Significance
Every Āyah is considered a sign from Allah:
- Guidance: Each verse provides guidance on faith, law, morality, and personal conduct.
- Miracle: As miracles, Āyāt serve as proof of the divine origin of the Qurʾān, demonstrating the inimitability of its language and message.
Intertextual References
- In discussions of Islamic law, theology, and exegesis (tafsīr), Āyāt are frequently cited to support doctrinal points.
- For religious observances and recitations (tilāwah), Muslims refer to specific Āyāt.
Further Studies
For those wishing to delve deeper into the concept of Āyah and its importance in Islam, consider the following books:
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
- “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” by Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti.
- “Qur’anic Studies: Sources and Methods of Scriptural Interpretation” by John Wansbrough.
- “An Introduction to the Qur’an” by Anna M. Gade.
Takeaways
- Significance: Each Āyah is both a segment of the Qurʾānic text and a symbol of divine revelation.
- Multiplicity: Although estimates of the number of Āyāt can vary, they are central to Islamic practice and belief.
- Study and Recitation: Muslims engage deeply with Āyāt through study (tafsīr) and recitation (tilāwah), making them fundamental to Islamic culture and spirituality.
Conclusion
The concept of ĀYAH (آية) encapsulates the essence of the Qurʾān as a collection of divine signs, each Āyah serving as a guiding beacon and a testament to the miraculous nature of Islam’s holy text.
