AR-RŪM (الروم) in Islam
Definition
AR-RŪM (الروم) refers to the ancient Byzantine, or Eastern Roman Empire. The term is the Arabic form of the Latin “Roma,” or “Romanus,” and is still used in some Eastern countries to denote the Turkish Empire. It is also the title of the 30th Sūrah of the Qurʾān, which contains prophetic references to the historical battles between Byzantine and Persian forces.
Etymology
- Arabic: الروم (Ar-Rūm)
- Latin: Roma, Romanus
- Turkish: Roma İmparatorluğu, Bizans İmparatorluğu
Qur’anic Reference
The Sūrah Al-Rūm (الروم) opens with the verse:
“The Byzantines have been defeated. In the nearest land. But they, after their defeat, will overcome within three to nine years.” (Qur’an, 30:2-4)
These verses refer to the defeat and subsequent victory of the Byzantine Empire over the Persians, which came to pass as prophesied.
Historical and Religious Significance
The term is significant for several reasons:
- Historical Context: It marks significant historical events of the early 7th century CE, emphasizing the victories and defeats that shaped the political landscape of the Near East.
- Prophetical Insight: The Qur’anic verses foresaw the reversal of fortunes for the Byzantine Empire, which is considered a sign of divine knowledge and an example of the Qur’an’s miraculous nature.
- Cultural Usage: AR-RŪM is still used in certain Eastern and Islamic cultures to reflect historical continuity and shifts in empire and power, particularly referencing the Ottoman successors of the Byzantine Empire.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Holy Qur’an: Text, Translation and Commentary” by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
- “The Byzantine Empire: A Historical Encyclopedia” by James Francis LePree and Michael A. Di Giovine
- “The Quranic Prophecy of the Revolution” by Aisha Bewley
- “Islamic Empires: Fifteen Cities that Define a Civilization” by Justin Marozzi
Takeaways and Conclusion
- Prophetic Accuracy: The Qur’anic mention of AR-RŪM highlights the text’s accuracy in predicting historical events.
- Multifaceted Identity: The term serves multiple roles, covering historical, cultural, and religious aspects.
- Continuity and Change: AR-RŪM illuminates the legacy of empires and their enduring significance in Islamic and world history.
Understanding AR-RŪM (الروم) enriches one’s comprehension of the Qur’anic narrative, Islamic historiography, and the dynamic interplay between major ancient empires and their legacies.
For further insights and detailed studies, the recommended books provide comprehensive discussions on the topic from various perspectives, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of AR-RŪM and its place in Islamic thought and history.
