ʿAFŪ (عفو)
Definition and Usage
ʿAFŪ (عفو) is an Arabic term that literally means “erasing” or “cancelling.” It is primarily used in Islamic literature to denote pardon and forgiveness, particularly in the context of divine forgiveness as granted by Allah.
Etymology
- Arabic: عفو (ʿafū)
- Turkish: Af
The root of the word, ع-ف-و (ʿa-f-w), suggests a connotation of wiping away or making vanish, thereby posing the verb as one of removing traces of sin and error.
Qur’anic References
The concept of ʿAFŪ (عفو) appears multiple times in the Qurʾān, underscoring its significance:
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286):
<p>“Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we forget or make a mistake. Our Lord, and lay not upon us a burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have mercy upon us.”</p>
- Surah An-Nisa (4:149):
<p>“If you show [some] good or conceal it or pardon an offense – indeed, Allah is ever Pardoning and Competent.”</p>
ʿAFŪ is also one of the 99 Names of Allah (Asma’ul Husna), specifically known as “Al-ʿAfū” meaning “The Pardoner” or “The Eraser (of sins).” This divine name underscores the attribute of Allah that erases sins and holds significance for believers seeking forgiveness.
Theological Significance
Divine Attribute
- Al-ʿAfū: One of the ninety-nine special names (Asma’ul Husna) given to God in Islam, highlighting His merciful nature in forgiving sins and erasing them from records.
Human Aspiration
- Muslims are encouraged to practice ʿAFŪ in their daily lives, extending forgiveness to others as they seek the same from Allah. It speaks volumes to the quality of character in Islamic ethical teachings.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” by Ghazzali
- “Forgiveness in Islam: Theology and Practice” by Jonathan A.C. Brown
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Takeaways
- ʿAFŪ is integral to Islamic thought, denoting the act of divine and human forgiveness.
- It is featured prominently in the Qur’an and among the attributes of Allah.
Conclusion
The term ʿAFŪ (عفو) captures the essence of erasing or cancelling sins, a fundamental principle in the Islamic tradition focusing on forgiveness and mercy. Understanding this concept provides deeper insight into Islamic theology and the aspirational ethics guiding Muslim lives.
