AL-LAUḤU ʾL-MAḤFŪZ̤ (اللوح المحفوظ)
Definition
AL-LAUḤU ʾL-MAḤFŪZ̤ (اللوح المحفوظ), often translated as “The Preserved Tablet,” refers to a divine record in Islamic theology that contains the decrees of God, written prior to the creation of the universe. This concept is a fundamental aspect of Islam’s understanding of predestination (Qadar).
Etymology
The term Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤ is derived from two Arabic words:
- “Al-Lauḥ” (لوح), meaning “tablet.”
- “Al-Maḥfūz̤” (محفوظ), meaning “preserved” or “protected.”
Qur’anic Mention and Context
The term appears specifically in the Qurʾān in Surah Al-Buruj (85:21-22):
<p>“Indeed, it is a glorious Qur’an, in a preserved tablet.”</p>
Here, the verse indicates the Qur’an itself is inscribed on the Preserved Tablet, underscoring its eternal and unalterable nature. The concept essentially signifies the divine and timeless quality of God’s word and decrees.
Theological Significance
In Islamic theology, Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤ serves as a cornerstone in the discussion of God’s immutable and preordained will. It is believed to contain all that has happened, is happening, and will happen, highlighting the omniscience and omnipotence of Allah.
Related Concepts
- Qadar (قدر): The Islamic concept of divine predestination.
- Al-Qalam (القلم): Often referred to as “The Pen,” which, according to some Islamic traditions, was the first thing created by Allah to write the divine decrees on Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤.
Mention of Tablets for Moses
Another related term, “Alwāḥ” (ألواح), which means “tablets,” appears in Surah Al-A`raf (7:142) concerning the tablets of law given to Moses:
<p>“And We wrote for him on the tablets (Alwāḥ) instructions and details of everything…”</p>
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Vision of Islam” by Sachiko Murata and William Chittick
- “A Thematic Commentary on the Qur’an” by Muhammad al-Ghazali
- “Divine Will and Predestination in Islamic Thought” by Sophia Vasalou
Takeaways
- Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤ is a significant concept in understanding Islamic views on divine knowledge and predestination.
- It reinforces the belief in God’s supreme will and the eternal nature of the Qur’an.
- Comparative studies of this concept help enrich one’s understanding of Islamic and other Abrahamic traditions’ perspectives on divine record-keeping and predestination.
Conclusion
The notion of Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤ serves as a profound element in Islamic theology, emphasizing God’s all-encompassing knowledge and unalterable divine plan. Its singular mention in the Qur’an encapsulates the eternal and divine nature of the holy text, providing a deep-seated foundation for Islamic belief in predestination and the perpetual nature of divine decrees.
