Al-Waqtu ʾd-Dāʾim (الوقت الدائم)
Definition
Al-Waqtu ʾd-Dāʾim (الوقت الدائم) literally translates to “The Everlasting Time.” This Ṣūfī term is used to describe the extent of the existence of the Eternal One, signifying the infinite continuity and timelessness that characterizes the divine presence.
Etymology
The term comes from Arabic roots:
- وقت (waqt) meaning “time”
- دائم (dāʾim) meaning “everlasting” or “eternal”
In Sufism, these terms are combined to stress the concept of time that transcends the temporal limitations of human existence.
Turkish Translation
In Turkish, Al-Waqtu ʾd-Dāʾim can be translated as “Ebedi Zaman.”
Significance in Sufism
In Ṣūfī thought, Al-Waqtu ʾd-Dāʾim carries profound spiritual implications:
- Timeless Reality: It represents a state beyond the constraints of chronological time, pointing toward a timeless reality associated with the Divine.
- Union with the Eternal: Ṣūfis believe that understanding and experiencing Al-Waqtu ʾd-Dāʾim brings one closer to God, as it reflects the eternal, unchanging nature of the Divine.
- Spiritual Enlightenment: The concept calls for the transcendence of temporal concerns and distractions, emphasizing a focus on eternal truths.
References and Further Studies
For a more in-depth understanding, the following books offer detailed analyses and insights:
- “The Essential Rumi” by Jalaluddin Rumi
- “The Mystics of Islam” by Reynold A. Nicholson
- “The Sufi Path of Knowledge” by William C. Chittick
- “ʿAbdu ʾr-Razzāq’s Dictionary of Ṣūfī Terms”
Takeaways
- Al-Waqtu ʾd-Dāʾim is a key concept in Ṣūfī terminology that illustrates the eternal nature of divine existence.
- It encourages the Ṣūfi aspirant to transcend the confines of worldly time and seek a deeper connection with the Eternal One.
- Understanding this term enhances one’s appreciation of the mystical dimensions of Islamic spirituality and its emphasis on the Divine’s timeless reality.
Conclusion
Al-Waqtu ʾd-Dāʾim serves as a guiding principle for those on the Ṣūfi path, promoting a focus on the eternal aspects of God’s existence. By grasping the essence of everlasting time, believers can deepen their spiritual practice and draw nearer to the eternal nature of the Divine.
