Faiẓ-i-Aqdas (فيض اقدس, Persian)
Definition
Faiẓ-i-Aqdas (فيض اقدس, Persian) refers to the communication of divine grace to angels, prophets, and other superior intelligences. This concept captures the essence of how divine wisdom and knowledge are transmitted from the Creator to elect beings who are considered intermediaries between God and humanity.
Etymology
- Faiẓ (فيض): An Arabic word meaning “overflow”, which connotes abundant grace or effusion.
- Aqdas (اقدس): An Arabic term meaning “most holy” or “most sacred”.
Translations
- Arabic: فيض أقدس (Faiḍ-aqdas)
- Turkish: Mukaddes Faiẓ
Significance in Islamic Intellectual Tradition
In Islamic theology and philosophy, Faiẓ-i-Aqdas holds significant importance as it elucidates the seamless communication of divine grace. This concept is central to understanding the metaphysical connection between God and His creation, particularly the special relationship with angels and prophets who receive direct divine knowledge.
Contextual Application
Faiẓ-i-Aqdas is frequently discussed in Islamic metaphysics and Sufism, where it details the mechanisms through which divine enlightenment can be disseminated. The concept forms a part of broader discussions on prophecy, revelation, and divine knowledge in Islamic thought. It highlights the sanctified process where divine wisdom flows uninterruptedly from the divine to privileged entities.
Related Concepts
- Nubuwwat (Prophethood): The Islamic belief in Prophets as recipients of divine guidance and messengers to humanity.
- Mala’ika (Angels): Divine beings in Islam who act as intermediaries between God and humans.
- ‘Ilm al-Ghayb (Knowledge of the Unseen): The knowledge that only God possesses, some of which is shared with prophets and angels via Faiẓ-i-Aqdas.
Further Reading
- “The Creed of Imam al-Tahawi” by Imam al-Tahawi – An essential primer on Islamic theology.
- “Al-Futuhat al-Makkiyya” by Ibn Arabi – Explores mystical insights and metaphysical dimensions in Islam.
- “The History of Islamic Philosophy” by Henry Corbin – An extensive overview of Islamic philosophy and thinkers.
Takeaways
- Faiẓ-i-Aqdas represents the highest form of divine grace, specifically directed at angels, prophets, and other supernal intelligences.
- It underscores the sacred communication between the divine realm and chosen recipients, highlighting a divine hierarchy in the transmission of wisdom.
- The term integrates deeply with other Islamic theological concepts such as prophethood, angels, and esoteric knowledge.
Conclusion
Faiẓ-i-Aqdas is a profound concept in Islamic theology and philosophy, encapsulating the idea of divine grace’s most sacred and unblemished form. It accentuates the unique relationship between God and special entities like prophets and angels, acting as a cornerstone in the theological discussions about divine wisdom and its dissemination.
