ẔĀT (ذات) in Islam
Definition and Usage
ẔĀT (ذات) refers to the essence or intrinsic nature of a being or entity. In Islamic theology, it is often used to describe the core nature that constitutes the being of a thing. In the theological context, ẔĀT is integral in defining the essence of God, indicating the fundamental nature of Allah.
Scholarly Definition
According to the Dictionary al-Mug͟hrab, ẔĀT is defined as the essence of a thing, meaning that by being which a thing is what it is, or that in being which a thing consists. This definition underscores the concept of ẔĀT as the ultimate and radical constituent of a thing.
Etymology and Language
The term ẔĀT (ذات) is derived from the Arabic word ẕū, which means “a possessor.” The term ẔĀT is the feminine form of ẕū.
- Arabic: ذات
- Turkish: Zat
Theological Significance
In Islamic scholastic theology, the ẔĀT of Allah is a core concept. It is used in expressions such as Ismu ʾẕ-Ẕāt, meaning “the essential name of God,” and Ẕātu ʾllāh, meaning “the Essence of God.” These terms highlight the focus on God’s intrinsic nature and essence in Islamic thought.
Legal Context
In the context of Muslim law, ẔĀT signifies the body connected with the soul, distinguishing it from badn, which refers to the material body. This distinction is important in discussions of the soul, the self, and legal definitions concerning personhood.
Translations
- Arabic: ذات
- Turkish: Zat
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “God and Man in the Koran: Semantics of the Koranic Weltanschauung” by Toshihiko Izutsu
- “A History of Islamic Philosophy” by Majid Fakhry
- “Islamic Theology and Philosophy” edited by Michael E. Marmura
- “The Concept of God in the Bible and the Qur’an” by John Kaltner
Takeaways
- ẔĀT is central to understanding the essence and nature of beings in Islamic theology.
- The concept is particularly significant in discussing the biblical and Qur’anic names and attributes of Allah.
- Differentiating between ẔĀT and badn helps clarify legal and theological discussions regarding human nature.
Conclusion
ẔĀT (ذات) is a fundamental term in Islamic theology and law, representing the intrinsic essence that defines entities, particularly in discussions concerning the nature of God and human beings. Understanding this term allows for a deeper appreciation of Islamic intellectual traditions and their influence on theological and legal discourses.
With this structured format, understanding the term ẔĀT and its applications becomes more accessible. This entry forms a comprehensive reference point for anyone interested in Islamic studies.
