AL-ʿUZZĀ (العزى) in Pre-Islamic Arabia
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: العزى (Al-ʿUzzā)
- Etymology: The name “Al-ʿUzzā” comes from the Arabic root ʿzʿz, which denotes “strength” or “might.” This etymological basis indicates the idol’s association with power and protection.
Historical Context
AL-ʿUZZĀ (العزى) was a prominent idol worshipped mainly by the pre-Islamic Arabian tribes. As mentioned in the Qurʾān, particularly in Sūrah An-Najm (chapter 53), verse 19:
<p>“Have you then considered al-Lāt and al-ʿUzzā, and Manāt, the third idol besides?” (Qur’an 53:19-20)</p>
Tribal Association
The idol of AL-ʿUZZĀ was particularly revered by the tribe of Ghatfan (غطفان), among others. This idol was one of the three major deities revered in pre-Islamic Mecca, alongside al-Lāt and Manāt. These deities held significant importance in the socio-religious fabric of the time.
Significance in the Qur’an
The Qur’an’s mention of AL-ʿUZZĀ, alongside other idols such as al-Lāt and Manāt, underscores the monotheistic mission of Islam to eradicate idolatry and polytheism. This reference is pivotal because it demonstrates the Islamic commitment to tawhid (the oneness of God) against the backdrop of the widespread idol worship prevalent in pre-Islamic Arabia.
Cultural and Religious Relevance
- Religious Shift: The advent of Islam brought about a dramatic shift from a polytheistic society to a strictly monotheistic one. Contextually, the mention of AL-ʿUZZĀ signifies the transition from the old religious order to the new one established by the Prophet Muhammad.
- Cultural Practices: Idolatry, including the worship of AL-ʿUZZĀ, was accompanied by various rituals and rites, some of which continued in altered forms within the Islamic cultural and religious landscape.
Further Reading
- “The Life of Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq, translated by A. Guillaume. This classical biography provides detailed insights into the historical contexts surrounding AL-ʿUZZĀ and other idols.
- “Pre-Islamic Arabia” in “The Cambridge History of Islam” by P. M. Holt, Ann K. S. Lambton, and Bernard Lewis. This book discusses the religious landscape of Arabia before the advent of Islam.
- “Meccan Trade and the Rise of Islam” by Patricia Crone. This book provides an analysis of the economic and religious factors shaping pre-Islamic Meccan society.
Takeaways and Conclusion
AL-ʿUZZĀ serves as a critical example of the polytheistic practices that existed in Arabian society before the rise of Islam. The mention of this idol in the Qur’an highlights the contrast between polytheism and the monotheistic message of Islam. Understanding AL-ʿUZZĀ provides insight into the sociocultural transformations that occurred during the advent of Islam.
In conclusion, AL-ʿUZZĀ’s significance lies not only in its historical context but also in its symbolic representation of the pre-Islamic era’s religious practices, which were fundamentally transformed with the spread of Islam.
