ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm (عـلـم النجوم‎)

ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm (عـلـم النجوم) in Islam

Introduction

ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm (عـلـم النجوم‎) denotes the science of astrology in Islamic tradition. Derived from Arabic, this term encompasses the method of predicting events of the present and future based on the positions of celestial bodies.

Etymology

• Arabic: عـلـم النجوم‎ (ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm)

  • ʿIlm (عِلم): Knowledge or science
  • Nujūm (نجوم): Stars or celestial bodies

• Turkish: İlmun-Nücum

  • İlm (İlmu): Knowledge or science
  • Nücum (Nujūm): Stars or celestial bodies

Understanding ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm

ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm, often referred to as astrology, in Islamic context is the study aimed at discovering future events and understanding current happenings through celestial positions. This concept plays a notable role in Islamic intellectual and cultural history.

Islamic Views on Astrology

The reception of astrology within Islam is complex and multifaceted:

• Positive Aspect: Some Islamic scholars and historical figures have viewed ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm as an extension of scientific inquiry, emphasizing the cosmos created by Allah (God) and its interrelation with earthly events.
• Negative Aspect: Conversely, many scholars and theologians criticize astrology, associating it with predictions that infringe upon Allah’s exclusive knowledge of the unseen (al-Ghayb).

Historical Context

The Islamic Golden Age (8th–14th century) saw the flourishing of many sciences, including astronomy (distinct from astrology). While some Muslim scholars engaged in astrological practices, many others focused on precise scientific study of celestial bodies (astronomy).

Books for Further Study

To gain more in-depth knowledge about ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm and its historical context:

• “Astrology and Magic from the Islamic and Occidental World” by Anwar Hashim
• “Islamic Science and the Making of the European Renaissance” by George Saliba
• “Science and Eccentricity: Collecting, Writing and Performing Science for Early Modern England” by Koen Vermeir and Michael Funk Deckard (for comparative cultural impacts)

Takeaways

• Integrative Perspective: Islam has a dual perspective on ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm, balancing admiration for the cosmos with caution against deterministic prediction-making which conflicts with Islamic monotheism.
• Historical Richness: The historical engagement with ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm reflects the broader scientific endeavors of the Islamic Golden Age, demonstrating the cultural and intellectual vibrancy of that era.
• Ethical Considerations: Contemporary Muslims navigate the practice of astrology with awareness of religious guidelines that promote reliance on divine wisdom over speculative practices.

Conclusion

ʿIlmu ʾn-Nujūm (عـلـم النجوم‎) remains an intricate facet of Islamic thought and history. Understanding its roots and the spectrum of opinions within Islam can give richer insight into how Muslims interact with and conceptualize the cosmos.

For an extensive exploration, the recommended texts offer a comprehensive view of astrology’s place in both Islamic culture and its intersecting influences across different epochs.