ĀZAR (آزر)
Etymology
- Arabic: آزر (Āzar)
- Turkish: Azer
- Hebrew Equivalent: Terah, the father of Abraham
Qur’anic Reference
ĀZAR (آزر) is mentioned in the Qur’an in Sūrah Al-An’am (6:74):
<p><em>“And when Ābrahīm said to his father Āzar, Takest thou images as gods?”</em></p>
This verse highlights a crucial interaction between Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim) and his father, focusing on the worship of idols.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Åzar is traditionally recognized as Abraham’s father. According to various Islamic and Eastern sources, he was reputed to be a statuary or carver of idols, making him a key figure in the context of idol worship (polytheism) of the time.
Status and Employment
Eastern authors unanimously agree that Azar’s profession was regarded as highly honorable:
- Craftsmanship: He is suggested to have pioneered the creation of clay images, transitioning from the prevailing custom of drawing pictures.
- Social Standing: Azar was reportedly a great lord, enjoying high favor with Nimrod, the king to whom he was related by marriage.
- Role: Some Rabbinic traditions even describe Terah as a principal priest and the head of his religious order, emphasizing his significant socio-religious role.
Theological Implications
In Islamic theology, the interaction between Abraham and his father Azar illustrates the advocacy for monotheism against prevalent idolatry. It serves as a narrative example of rejecting family and societal traditions when they conflict with divinely revealed truth.
Further Studies
For those interested in an in-depth understanding of Azar, the following books and sources are recommended:
- “The History of al-Tabari, Volume II: Prophets and Patriarchs” by al-Tabari
- “Stories of the Prophets” (Qisas al-Anbiya) by Ibn Kathir
- “The Message of the Qur’an” translated and explained by Muhammad Asad
- “Islamic History: A Very Short Introduction” by Adam J. Silverstein
Takeaways
- Idol Maker: Azar’s occupation as an idol maker highlights the backdrop against which Prophet Abraham’s advocacy for monotheism takes place.
- Cultural Status: Despite his unfavorable role from a monotheistic perspective, Azar was a distinguished figure within his cultural and religious context.
- Theological Contrast: The narrative serves to exemplify the tension and transformation from polytheism to monotheism that is central to Abrahamic traditions in Islam.
Conclusion
Azar stands as a complex figure in Islamic tradition. His story presents intricate layers of historical, cultural, and theological dimensions. Understanding Azar enriches one’s comprehension of the significant shift towards monotheism championed by Prophet Abraham, further illuminating the Qur’anic message and its enduring legacy in Islamic thought and practice.
By exploring the multifaceted significance of Azar, this entry enhances the understanding of historical and theological contexts within Islam, shedding light on broader themes of religious transformation and legacy.
