AZ̤-Z̤ILLU ʾL-AUWAL (الظل الاول)
Definition and Significance
AZ̤-Z̤ILLU ʾL-AUWAL (الظل الاول) translates to “The First Shade” in English. It’s a term widely used in Sufism to denote the concept of al-ʿAqlu ʾl-Auwal (the First Intellect). This term represents the primordial reality, signifying the first emanation of the divine light from God. In Sufi cosmology, al-ʿAqlu ʾl-Auwal is the intermediary between God and creation, embodying divine wisdom and intellect.
Etymology and Translation
- Arabic: الظل الاول (al-Z̤illu al-Auwal)
- Turkish: İlk Gölge
Etymology: The term can be broken down into its components:
- al- (ال): The definite article “the”.
- Z̤ill (ظل): Shade or shadow.
- Auwal (أول): First.
Together, al-Z̤illu al-Auwal literally means “the First Shade.”
Theological Context
In Sufi thought, al-ʿAqlu ʾl-Auwal is critical for understanding the metaphysical relationship between the transcendent Creator and the contingent world. It is through this “First Shade” or “First Intellect” that the divine knowledge and attributes are communicated to other levels of creation, serving as a bridge between the infinite and the finite.
Books for Further Study
For those interested in delving deeper into the concept of AZ̤-Z̤ILLU ʾL-AUWAL and its implications in Sufi metaphysics, the following books are highly recommended:
- “Divine Governance of the Human Kingdom” by Ibn ‘Arabi
- “The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn al-‘Arabi’s Metaphysics of Imagination” by William Chittick
- “Mystical Dimensions of Islam” by Annemarie Schimmel
Takeaways and Conclusion
AZ̤-Z̤ILLU ʾL-AUWAL (الظل الاول) or “The First Shade” is a profound Sufi term that plays a pivotal role in the understanding of divine intellect and the process of creation. Recognizing this concept helps in appreciating the deeper layers of Islamic mysticism and its approach to the nature of existence and divine wisdom.
In conclusion, AZ̤-Z̤ILLU ʾL-AUWAL is more than a theological term; it is a gateway to understanding the intricacies of Sufi metaphysical thought and the unique way in which divine knowledge permeates through the layers of creation.
