Ummī in Islam
Definition and Usage
Ummī (Arabic: أمى), derived from the term umm (أم), meaning “a mother,” signifies a state that is likened to that of a newborn. This term is pluralized as Ummīyūn (أمِّيُّون), literally translating to “ignorant as new-born babes.” In Islamic theology, it particularly identifies those who lack divine scriptures.
In the context of the Qur’an, the term “Ummī” is often related to the polytheists of Arabia, emphasizing their spiritual ignorance and absence of a divine revelation prior to the advent of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Etymology
- Arabic: أمى (Ummī)
- Root: Umm (أم) - “Mother”
- Hebrew: גּוֹיִם (Gentiles)
Scriptural References
Qur’anic Usage
An important reference of the term Ummī is found in Surah Al-Jumu’ah (62:2), which states:
<p>“He (God) it is who sent unto the Gentiles (Ummīyīn) a Prophet, amongst them to recite to them His signs and to purify them, and to teach them the Book, the wisdom, although they were before in obvious error.”</p>
This verse underlines the mission of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) among the Ummīyīn to provide them with divine guidance, thereby dispelling their ignorance and providing them with divine wisdom and purity.
Interpretation by Scholars
Al-Baiẓāwī and other Islamic scholars often interpret Ummīyūn as encompassing all individuals and communities without a sacred scripture, not exclusively the polytheists of pre-Islamic Arabia. It denotes a universal state of spiritual ignorance abolished by the arrival of divine revelation through Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Significance and Context
Historical Context
In pre-Islamic Arabia, idol worship was prevalent among the Gentiles or Ummīyūn. The use of this term emphasized the lack of written scriptures and a monotheistic tradition akin to Judaism or Christianity. This backdrop underscores the transformative role of Islam in providing a structured spiritual and moral framework, symbolized through the words and mission of the final Prophet.
Spiritual and Ethical Dimensions
The concept of Ummī calls on Muslims to recognize the need for divine knowledge and wisdom in overcoming spiritual ignorance. It underscores the mission of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to elevate the status of previously unwitting humanity to one of divine awareness and ethical living.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The Qur’an: A New Translation” by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem - For a deeper understanding of Qur’anic concepts and translations.
- “Islamic Theology and Philosophy” by F. E. Peters - To explore broader themes in Islamic thought and theology.
- “In the Shadow of the Sword: The Birth of Islam and the Rise of the Global Arab Empire” by Tom Holland - For historical context and the transformative impact of Islam in Arabia.
- “Islam: A Short History” by Karen Armstrong - A concise overview of Islamic history and its foundational principles.
Takeaways
- Ummī denotes a state of spiritual ignorance likened to a newborn’s lack of knowledge, applicable to pre-Islamic polytheists and all who are without divine guidance.
- The term reflects Islamic emphasis on divine revelation and prophet’s role in addressing such ignorance.
- It provides historical and theological insights into the transformative power of Islam.
Conclusion
The concept of Ummī serves as a poignant reminder of the essential Islamic belief in the necessity of divine revelation for spiritual and ethical enlightenment. It underscores the mission of Islam to guide humanity from ignorance to divine knowledge and purity through the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
