Faẓl (فضل)
Definition and Meaning
Faẓl (فضل) - Pronounced fazl. Literally translates to “that which remains over and above; redundant.” In the Islamic context, especially as referenced in the Qur’an, it signifies God’s grace or kindness bestowed upon humanity.
Qur’anic Usage
In the Qur’an, faẓl is frequently used to express the idea of divine grace and benevolence. One notable example is found in Sūrah Al-Baqarah [2:244]:
<p>“God is Lord of grace to men, but most men give no thanks.”</p>
Etymology and Linguistic Roots
The term faẓl (فضل) comes from the Arabic root “ف-ض-ل” (fa-ḍ-l), which primarily means “surplus,” “excess,” or “that which exceeds expectation.”
Comparison with Christian Notions of Grace
The Islamic perception of divine grace found in faẓl can be compared to the Christian concept of grace found in the New Testament. However, a more accurate expression of divine grace in Christianity might be conveyed by the term fayẓ-i-aqdas (فيض أقدس), which means “the holy effusion.”
Etymology in Other Languages
- Arabic: فضل (faẓl)
- Turkish: Fazilet
Books for Further Studies
- Cook, Michael. “Commanding Right and Forbidding Wrong in Islamic Thought.”
- Esposito, John L. “The Oxford Dictionary of Islam.”
- Rahman, Fazlur. “Major Themes of the Qur’an.”
Key Takeaways
- Faẓl represents divine grace and kindness in the Islamic framework, emphasizing God’s benevolence towards humanity.
- The concept is distinct yet shares similarities with Christian notions of divine grace.
- It underscores a divine generosity that often goes unappreciated by humans.
Conclusion
In Islamic theology, faẓl underscores a fundamental relationship between God and humanity, marked by boundless grace and mercy. The term illuminates a central theological theme in Islam, where God’s grace exceeds mere obligation, showering blessings upon humanity, often without regard for return.
Explore this rich concept further through both traditional and contemporary scholarly works to gain a deeper understanding of how faẓl operates within Islamic thought and how it parallels and diverges from similar religious doctrines globally.
