FĀRAQLĪT̤ (فارقليط)
Definition
FĀRAQLĪT̤ (فارقليط) is the Arabic rendering of the Greek term παράκλητος (Paraclete), which is often translated as “advocate,” “helper,” or “comforter.” In Islamic theology, it is believed to refer to a significant figure prophesied in religious texts, specifically identified as Aḥmad, one of the many names associated with Prophet Muhammad.
Etymology
- Arabic: فَارَقْلِيط (fāraqlīt̤)
- Greek: παράκλητος (Paraclete)
- Turkish: Paraklit
Qur’anic Reference
Islamic scholars often cite the term in the context of a verse from the Qur’an, Surah As-Saff (61:6):
<p>“And call to mind when Jesus, son of Mary, said: ‘O children of Israel! Verily, I am an Apostle of God unto you, attesting the Taurat revealed before me, and giving good tidings of a Prophet that shall come after me, whose name is Aḥmad.’”</p>
The term Aḥmad is derived from the same root as Muḥammad, signifying “the Praised.” It is suggested that in some interpretations of the Gospel of John 16:7, παράκλητος may have been rendered περικλυτος, which could have been translated into Arabic as Aḥmad.
Theological Significance
In Islamic tradition, Fāraqlīt̤ is synonymous with the foretold Prophet Muhammad. According to works like Majmaʿu l-Bihār, Fāraqlīt̤ is described as “a distinguisher between truth and error.” This theological view is further corroborated by notable Shīʿah texts such as the Ḥayātu l-Qulūb, which often refers to Prophet Muhammad through various prophetic names found across different religious scriptures.
Notable References in Islamic Literature
- Majmaʿu l-Bihār: Provides an interpretation of Fāraqlīt̤ as a figure distinguishing truth from falsehood.
- Ḥayātu l-Qulūb: Identifies Fāraqlīt̤ with Prophet Muhammad across scriptures, including the Taurāt (Torah), Injīl (Gospel), and Zabūr (Psalms).
Further Reading
For those interested in deeper exploration, the following books are recommended:
- “The Gospel of Barnabas”: Provides Muslim perspectives on Christian texts prophesying the coming of Muhammad.
- “Muhammad in the Bible” by Abdul Ahad Dawud: Elaborates on the scriptural evidence of Muhammad’s prediction in the Bible.
- “The Bible, The Qur’an and Science” by Maurice Bucaille: Discusses prophetic references found within the scriptures.
Takeaways
- Fāraqlīt̤ is a significant theological term connecting Islamic and Christian eschatology.
- Aḥmad and Muḥammad both signify “the Praised,” highlighting the anticipated coming of Prophet Muhammad in earlier scriptures.
- This term serves as a cornerstone for Muslim-Christian dialogue, emphasizing shared prophetic traditions and eschatological beliefs.
Conclusion
Studying Fāraqlīt̤ (فارقليط) enriches our understanding of Islamic theology and its interconnection with other Abrahamic faith traditions. By recognizing the term’s import and its scriptural basis, we gain deeper insights into the unity and diversity of prophetic messages as understood within Islam.
