Ẕū al-Fiqār (ذو الفقار)
Ẕū al-Fiqār (ذو الفقار) - Ẕū al-Fiqār (ذو الفقار), which translates to “The Lord of the Vertebræ of the Back,” is the name of the celebrated sword that the Prophet Muḥammad bestowed upon his son-in-law ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib.
Etymology and Meaning
Etymology: The term “Ẕū al-Fiqār” comes from Arabic, where “Ẕū” means “the owner” or “the one who possesses,” and “Fiqār” refers to the “vertebræ” or “spine.” Hence, “Ẕū al-Fiqār” can be interpreted as “The One with the Vertebræ.”
Arabic Translation: ذو الفقار
Turkish Translation: Zülfikar
Historical Context
The sword Ẕū al-Fiqār holds profound historical and spiritual significance in Islam, particularly within Shia tradition. According to Islamic tradition, the sword was initially given to the Prophet Muḥammad, who used it in several critical battles. Later, recognizing the valor and piety of his son-in-law ʿAlī, Muḥammad gifted the sword to him.
Symbolism and Legacy
Ẕū al-Fiqār is emblematic of ʿAlī’s courage, strength, and justice. It symbolizes the righteous struggle against oppression and remains a potent symbol among Shia Muslims.
The two-pronged blade of the sword, often depicted in Islamic art and literature, is a visual representation of its distinctive design. The phrase “Lā fatā ʾillā ʿAlī, lā sayfa ʾillā ẓū l-fiqarāʾ” (“There is no hero but ʿAlī, no sword but Ẕū al-Fiqār”) underscores its revered status.
Books for Further Studies
- “Nahj al-Balagha” by Sharif Razi: A collection of speeches, sermons, and sayings attributed to Imam ʿAlī.
- “The History of Islam” by Franz Rosenthal: Provides detailed context about the Prophet Muḥammad and his companions.
- “Ali: The Voice of Human Justice” by George Jordac: A biography that explores the legacy and character of ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib.
Takeaways
- Ẕū al-Fiqār is a historically and spiritually significant sword gifted to ʿAlī by the Prophet Muḥammad.
- Its name, “The Lord of the Vertebræ of the Back,” reflects its symbolic power and distinctive design.
- It continues to be a potent symbol of bravery and justice within Islamic culture, especially among Shia Muslims.
Conclusion
Understanding the historical and symbolic significance of Ẕū al-Fiqār enriches one’s comprehension of Islamic history and its enduring artifacts. The sword is more than a weapon; it is a testament to the values of valor, loyalty, and righteousness upheld by figures like ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib.
