ẒUḤĀ (ضحى)
Definition
‘ẒUḤĀ’ (ضحى) holds several important connotations in Islamic theology and practice:
- Temporal Significance: This term refers to a specific part of the day, approximately halfway between sunrise and noon.
- Voluntary Prayer: Ẓuḥā also denotes a specific time for an optional (nafl) prayer that Muslims can perform.
- Qur’anic Reference: It is the title of the 93rd Sūrah of the Qur’an, ‘Sūrat al-Ẓuḥā’, which opens with the words, “By the forenoon brightness” (وَٱلضُّحَىٰ, wa-ḍ-ḍuḥā).
Etymology
The term ‘ẒUḤĀ’ (ضحى) is derived from the root “ض ح ي” (ḍ-ḥ-y), which generally means to become visible or clear. The term is directly related to the brightness and clarity of the morning after sunrise.
Arabic Translation: ضحى
Turkish Translation: Kuşluk vakti
Temporal and Liturgical Significance
- Temporal Context: ‘Ẓuḥā’ refers to the period in the morning extending from shortly after sunrise until just before the sun reaches its zenith. This time period is significant for its tranquility and clarity, often associated with reflection.
- Duhā Prayer (⟳ صلاة الضحى): A voluntary prayer, also called ‘Salāt ul-Ḍuḥā’ or ‘Ishraq’, performed during this period. It is highly recommended in the Islamic tradition and is considered a means of earning great blessings and rewards.
Qur’anic Significance
‘Sūrat al-Ẓuḥā’ (Sūrah XCIII) is a Meccan surah that emphasizes themes of divine solace, gratitude, and hope. The opening verse, ⟨وَٱلضُّحَىٰ، وَٱلَّيۡلِ إِذَا سَجَىٰ⟩, swears by the bright forenoon and the night when it is still.
To summarize, ’the Sūrah’ highlights Allah’s support for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) during a period of distress, offering reassurance and emphasis on endurance and gratitude.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “An Introduction to the Qur’an” by Abdullah Saeed
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- “Rituals and Practices in World Religions: Cross-Cultural Scholarship to Inform Research and Teaching” by Whitney A. Bauman
Takeaways
- ẒUḤĀ (ضحى) represents a significant time period in the Islamic day, ideal for reflection and voluntary worship.
- Duhā Prayer is a recommended practice during this period, underlining its spiritual importance.
- Surat al-Ẓuḥā delivers key messages of comfort, endurance, and gratitude, reinforcing the moral and spiritual ethos of Islam.
Conclusion
Understanding the term ‘ẒUḤĀ’ in its temporal, ritualistic, and scriptural contexts offers deeper insights into Islamic practices and theology. This multipurpose term enriches both daily spiritual routines and broader theological understandings within Islam.
