Alexander the Great
Introduction
Alexander the Great (d. 334 B.C.E.), known in Arabic as al-Iskandar (الإسكندر), was a Macedonian conqueror renowned for his empire-building that included Egypt and the Persian Achaemenid Empire. His influence extended beyond his time, and he is often linked with Islamic eschatological traditions.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: الإسكندر (al-Iskandar)
- Turkish: İskender
Alexander in Islamic Tradition
Alexander the Great is frequently identified with Dhu al-Qarnayn (ذو القرنين), translating to “the two-horned one,” who is prominently mentioned in the Qur’an (18:83–94). The figure of Dhu al-Qarnayn is one who serves the cause of righteousness, building a legendary wall against the forces of chaos, symbolized by Gog and Magog.
Muslim Eschatology and Identifications
Some Islamic scholars and believers consider Alexander as a pious man and even go as far as recognizing him as a prophet. This association could be attributed to:
- His supposed sense of justice.
- Civilization-building ethos demonstrated through his campaigns and founded cities, like Alexandria in Egypt.
Influence and Legacy
Alexander’s footprint is evident in various regions, and his life story has been adopted and adapted into Islamic lore, thereby contributing to and enriching Muslim eschatology.
Suggested Books for Further Reading
- “Alexander the Great: A New History” by Waldemar Heckel
- “The Islamic Alexander Romance” by Kevin van Bladel
- “Alexander the Great in the Middle Ages” edited by Markus Stock
- “Islamic Legends: Histories of the Heroes, Saints and Prophets” edited by Helga Rebhan
Takeaways and Conclusion
Alexander the Great’s legacy encapsulates not only his historical conquests but also his symbolic and religious significance within Islamic tradition. As Dhu al-Qarnayn, his attributed righteousness and actions have been integrated into broader eschatological themes, contributing to the rich tapestry of Islamic narrative traditions.
By establishing a connection via such a diverse and impactful figure as Alexander, Islamic intellectual history showcases the ability to absorb, adapt, and harmonize figures and stories from different cultural and historical milieus.
