Bukht Naṣṣar (بخت نصر) in Islam
Definition
Bukht Naṣṣar (بخت نصر) refers to the historical figure Nebuchadnezzar II, the king of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. In Islamic tradition, he is recognized for his role in the conquest of Jerusalem and the destruction of the First Temple.
Etymology
The term Bukht Naṣṣar is derived from Arabic:
- بخت (Bukht) means “son.”
- نصر (Naṣṣar) refers to “an idol,” implying “the son of the idol.”
In Turkish, the term is also rendered as Bukht Naṣṣar.
Qur’anic Reference
The Qur’an makes a possible allusion to Nebuchadnezzar’s conquest in Surah Al-Isra (The Night Journey), 17:8:
<p>“And when the threat for the last (crime) came (to be inflicted, We sent an enemy) to harm your faces, and to enter the temple as they entered it the first time.”</p>
Islamic scholars, such as Jalāl ad-Dīn, interpret this verse as a reference to the Babylonian invasion led by Nebuchadnezzar that resulted in the devastation of Jerusalem.
Historical Context
Nebuchadnezzar II reigned from approximately 605 BCE to 562 BCE. He is most famous for leading the Babylonian army in the siege of Jerusalem, which culminated in the destruction of the First Temple in 586 BCE. This event is also significant in Jewish history, marking the beginning of the Babylonian exile.
Interpretations in Islamic Tradition
- The historical accounts of Nebuchadnezzar’s actions are acknowledged in Islamic tradition, although interpretations and details can vary.
- The destruction of the temple and the subsequent exile are often seen as a consequence of divine punishment for the actions of the people of Jerusalem.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Bible, The Qur’an, and Science: The Holy Scriptures Examined in the Light of Modern Knowledge” by Dr. Maurice Bucaille
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- “Islamic History: A Very Short Introduction” by Adam J. Silverstein
- “A History of Islamic Societies” by Ira M. Lapidus
- “Introduction to Islamic Civilization” edited by R. M. Savory
Takeaways
- Bukht Naṣṣar is the Arabic designation for Nebuchadnezzar II.
- Known for his military campaigns, particularly the capture and destruction of Jerusalem.
- Recognized in Islamic exegesis as part of discussions on historical divine retributive justice.
Conclusion
Bukht Naṣṣar serves as a critical figure in the intersecting histories of Islamic, Jewish, and Christian traditions. His legacy in Islamic thought underscores themes of divine judgment and historical cycles of retribution.
This comprehensive overview provides insight into the term’s etymology, its contextual significance within Islamic texts, and directs readers towards further resources for a deeper understanding of Islamic, Jewish, and Biblical interrelations.
