ʿIlmu ʾr-Raml (عِلْمُ الرَّمْلِ)
Definition
ʿIlmu ʾr-Raml (عِلْمُ الرَّمْلِ), commonly referred to as geomancy, is an ancient practice of divination using lines or patterns drawn in sand (raml). This practice is believed to have been employed by several prophets in Islamic tradition as a miraculous tool for divination or guidance.
Etymology
The term ʿIlmu ʾr-Raml is derived from Arabic, where:
- ʿIlm (عِلْمُ) means “knowledge” or “science.”
- Raml (رَمْلِ) translates to “sand.”
In Turkish, this practice is also known as Ramlı Bilim.
Historical Significance
Geomancy, known as ʿIlmu ʾr-Raml, holds a respected place in the annals of Islamic tradition. It is said to have been a miraculous practice employed by six prophets, namely:
- Imam Adam (آدم)
- Idrīs (إِدْرِيس)
- Luqmān (لُقْمَان)
- Armiyāʾ (اَرْمَيا - Jeremiah)
- Shaʿyāʾ (شَعْيا - Isaiah)
- Dānīāl (دَانِيا - Daniel)
The practice is often referenced in classical Islamic literature, such as Kashf al-Ẓunūn by Ḥājī Khalīfa, which documents an array of traditional sciences and their practitioners.
Cultural Context and Practice
While the origins and detailed methodologies of ʿIlmu ʾr-Raml are often steeped in mysticism, the practice usually involves drawing a series of lines or dots on a sandy surface. These patterns are then interpreted to divine insights or answers to questions. Although geomancy is less prevalent in contemporary Islamic practice compared to the past, it remains an intriguing example of the confluence between spirituality and early scientific inquiry within Islamic culture.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
For those interested in deeper exploration of ʿIlmu ʾr-Raml and its broader implications in Islamic thought and practice, consider the following references:
- “Islamic Geomancy and a Thirteenth-Century Divinatory Device: The Discovery of a Crucial Parchment Roll” by Emilie Savage-Smith and Y. Seiten.
- “Magic and Divination in Early Islam” by Emilie Savage-Smith.
- “Kashf al-Ẓunūn ‘an asāmī al-kutub wa-al-funūn” by Ḥājī Khalīfa (Mustafa bin Abd Allah Katib Celebi).
Takeaways and Conclusion
ʿIlmu ʾr-Raml or geomancy is a fascinating and historical practice deeply embedded in Islamic culture and tradition. Believed to be used miraculously by several distinguished prophets, it illustrates how ancient civilizations sought spiritual guidance through various means. Although less commonly practiced today, its legacy persists in Islamic intellectual history and highlights the rich tapestry of diverse practices that contribute to the spiritual and philosophical heritage of Islam.
For a deeper understanding, refer to the recommended readings and explore the intersection of faith, mysticism, and early scientific endeavors within the expansive landscape of Islamic knowledge.
Note
This text is structured to fit into a reference guide or dictionary entry for Islam, providing a concise yet comprehensive overview of ʿIlmu ʾr-Raml.
