Al-Jūdī (الجودى)
Definition and Qur’anic Reference
Al-Jūdī (الجودى) refers to the mountain mentioned in the Qur’an where the Ark of Noah is said to have come to rest after the Great Flood. This is explicitly mentioned in the Qur’anic verse:
<p>“And it (the Ark) settled on al-Jūdī.” (Qur’an, Surah 11:44)</p>
Etymology
The term “Jūdī” is believed to be a corruption of the name “Mount Giordi,” also known as the “Gordyœi” in Greek references. The name “Al-Jūdī” is written in Arabic as الجودى.
Arabic: الجودى
Turkish: Cudi Dağı
Historical and Geographical Significance
1. Traditional Association: Mount Al-Jūdī is traditionally identified as being in the range of mountains situated between Armenia and Mesopotamia. According to some historical interpretations, it is distinct from the famous Mount Ararat, although often associated with it.
2. Contemporary Views: Explorers and historians like Ainsworth in his Travels in the Track of the Ten Thousand have noted that local tradition still points to Jabal Jūdī as the final resting place of Noah’s Ark. It is believed that fragments of the Ark may still exist at its summit.
3. Clarifications by Historians: Scholars like Whiston, in History of Armenia, assert that “Araratia” refers to a province rather than a specific mountain, indicating possible discrepancies in identifying the exact mountain within the Ararat range.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The Ark Before Noah: Decoding the Story of the Flood” by Irving Finkel
- “Noah’s Ark: A Feasibility Study” by John Woodmorappe
- “The Bible as History” by Werner Keller
- “Travels in the Track of the Ten Thousand: Being a Geographical and Historical Narrative of the Expedition of Cyrus” by William Ainsworth
- “History of Armenia” by George Whiston
Takeaways
- Al-Jūdī is an essential part of Islamic tradition, marking the end of the Great Flood and the rescue of Noah and his followers.
- The precise identification of Mount Al-Jūdī open to interpretation, with various historical accounts linking it to regions between Armenia and Mesopotamia.
- Understanding the cultural and geographical context of Al-Jūdī enriches one’s appreciation of its significance in both Islamic tradition and historical narratives.
Conclusion
Al-Jūdī holds a significant place in Islamic tradition as the final resting place of Noah’s Ark. It is entwined with interpretations and traditions that span geography and history. Whether understanding it through religious texts or historical exploration, Mount Al-Jūdī remains a symbol of divine salvation and resilience.
