AḤQĀF (احقاف)
Definition
AḤQĀF (احقاف) refers to a tract of land located in the region of al-Sihr in Yemen. It is also the title of the 46th Sūrah (Chapter) of the Qurʾān.
Etymology
The term “Aḥqāf” (احقاف) is derived from the Arabic root “ḥ-q-f” (حقف), which generally means “sand dunes.” The name specifically points to a desert region characterized by undulating sand dunes, symbolizing the arid and challenging landscape of that part of Yemen.
Arabic Translation: احقاف (Aḥqāf)
Turkish Translation: Ahkaf or Ahâk
Significance in Islam
Geographic Importance
Aḥqāf is historically significant, as it refers to the region inhabited by the ancient people of ʿĀd. The locale is associated with desolate landscapes that were once home to thriving communities mentioned in the Qurʾān.
Qur’anic Context
The Sūrah titled “AḤQĀF” (Sūrah 46) in the Qurʾān focuses on the warning given to the people of ʿĀd by the Prophet Hūd. The chapter elaborates on the fate of these people due to their rejection of divine guidance and prophethood, serving as a moral and eschatological lesson for all believers.
Key Verses
A few notable verses from Sūrah Al-Aḥqāf include:
1"And remember the brother of 'Aad, when he warned his people in the [region of] al-Ahqaf - and warners had already passed on before him and after him - [saying], 'Do not worship except Allah. Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a terrible day.'" (Qur'an 46:21)
Books for Further Studies
For those interested in exploring AḤQĀF and its broader implications within Islamic studies, the following books are recommended:
- “The Qur’an: An Introduction” by Abdullah Saeed
- “The Meaning of the Qur’an” by Maulana Abul A’la Maududi
- “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” by Jalal al-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti
- “The History of al-Tabari” by al-Tabari
Takeaways
- Aḥqāf is a significant geographic term within the Islamic lexicon, pointing to a historical and prophetic narrative in the Qurʾān.
- Sūrah Al-Aḥqāf emphasizes the themes of monotheism, prophethood, and eschatology through the story of the people of ʿĀd.
- The Aḥqāf region serves as a reminder of past civilizations and their eventual decline as a result of divine disobedience.
Conclusion
Understanding Aḥqāf offers a deeper insight into the Qur’anic narrative and the geographical history of early prophetic missions. This multifaceted term encapsulates both a physical location and a spiritual lesson, integral to the Islamic faith and historical memory.
