Ar-Rūm: The Qur’anic Term for the Byzantine Empire
Etymology
Ar-Rūm (Arabic: الروم) is the term used in the Qur’an to refer to the Byzantine Empire. The word “Rūm” itself is derived from the Greek word “Rome,” signifying the Eastern Roman Empire centered in Constantinople, now modern-day Istanbul, Turkey.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: الروم (Ar-Rūm)
- Turkish: Rum
Qur’anic Context
Ar-Rūm is mentioned in the 30th chapter of the Qur’an, Sūratu’l-Rūm (سورة الروم), also known as the “Chapter of the Greeks.” This chapter touches on the historical conflict between the Byzantine Empire and the Persian Empire. The passage predicts the initial defeat of the Byzantines by the Persians, followed by a reversal of fortunes where the Byzantines would later achieve victory. The chapter starts as follows:
<p>“Alif. Lām. Mīm. The Greeks have been defeated in a nearby land. But after their defeat, they shall overcome in a few years. All matters are in the hands of Allah—before and after. And on that day, the believers will rejoice at the victory willed by Allah. He gives victory to whoever He wills. For He is the Almighty, Most Merciful.” (Qur’an, 30:1-5)</p>
Historical Context and Interpretations
This chapter is significant both historically and theologically. According to many Islamic scholars, such as al-Baiḍāwī and the Jalālān, this prophecy is considered evidence of the divine origin of the Qur’an.
Historical Background
This passage is said to have been revealed around the time when the Persians achieved significant military success against the Byzantines. The most notable conquest was the capture of Jerusalem in 614 CE. However, this early success was to be overturned as the Byzantine Empire, under Emperor Heraclius, later gained significant victories against the Persians, leading to the restoration of Byzantine territories and the fall of the Persian capital, Ctesiphon, in 628 CE.
Commentary Accounts
Islamic commentators like al-Baiḍāwī and the Jalālān provide varying accounts of the timeline of these events. Some assert that the Byzantine victory took place shortly after the Battle of Badr in the second year of Hijrah (624 CE). Others suggest that it occurred around the time of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah in the sixth or seventh year of Hijrah (627-628 CE).
Anecdote of Abu Bakr’s Wager
An additional narrative involves Abu Bakr, the first caliph of Islam, who made a wager with an adversary about the outcome of this prophecy. According to the story, Abu Bakr initially bet on a three-year period for the prophecy’s fulfillment. After consulting the Prophet Muhammad, who advised him to extend the timeline, Abu Bakr and his opponent agreed on a nine-year period. The prophecy’s fulfillment, therefore, became a notable event, confirming the Qur’anic revelation in the eyes of believers.
Suggested Books for Further Reading
- “The Qur’an: An Encyclopedia” by Oliver Leaman
- “The Cambridge History of Islam” edited by P.M. Holt, Ann K. S. Lambton, and Bernard Lewis
- “Byzantium and Islam: Age of Transition, 7th-9th Century” by Helen C. Evans
- “In the Shadow of the Sword: The Birth of Islam and the Rise of the Global Arab Empire” by Tom Holland
Takeaways and Conclusion
The mention of ar-Rūm in the Qur’an illustrates the text’s historical grounding and its engagement with contemporary events of its time. It also underscores the Qur’anic theme of divine providence and the eventual triumph of believers. Understanding ar-Rūm within its scriptural and historical context not only enriches our comprehension of the Qur’an but also broadens our grasp of early Islamic history and its intersections with Byzantine and Persian histories.
Summary
The term ar-Rūm in the Qur’an refers to the Byzantine Empire, signifying a momentous period marked by intense conflict between the Byzantines and the Persians. The Qur’anic prophecy regarding these events, along with its subsequent fulfillment, holds a significant place in Islamic theology and history.
Feel free to delve into the recommended readings to gain a deeper understanding of these complex historical interactions and their theological implications.
