Hikmah (Wisdom)
Etymology
The term Hikmah (Arabic: حكمة) comes from the trilateral root ḥ-k-m (ح ك م), which conveys meanings related to wisdom, judgment, and governance. The Turkish equivalent is also Hikmet.
Definition
Hikmah refers to wisdom, embodying both revealed wisdom and practical sciences. The Quran is identified as a form of wisdom, making it synonymous with divine revelation. Beyond religious literature, hikmah encompasses various branches of knowledge such as philosophy, ethics, and medicine.
Quranic Perspective
In the Quran, hikmah is often described as a divine gift bestowed upon prophets and wise individuals. It is seen as essential guidance and a proof of God’s will and knowledge. One of the Quranic verses that encapsulates this concept states:
<p>“He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good. But none will remember except those of understanding.” (Quran 2:269)</p>
Philosophical Branches
Several Islamic scholars have expanded the understanding of hikmah to incorporate various branches of knowledge. Prominent philosopher Ibn Sina (Avicenna) considered hikmah inclusive of both natural sciences like medicine and the ethical framework guiding these practices.
Hikmat al-Ishraq (Illuminationism)
A notable religio-philosophical school of thought is Hikmat al-Ishraq, founded by Shihab al-Din Yahya Suhrawardi (d. 1191). Illuminationism perceived wisdom as a divine light that transcends material reality, elucidating a greater metaphysical and mystical understanding of existence.
Sufi Traditions
In Sufi traditions, hikmah refers to wisdom sayings or aphorisms known as hikam. These poetic aphorisms, attributed to medieval Sufis like Ibn Ata Allah (d. 1309), offer spiritual insights and practical guidance for seekers on the path to divine love and wisdom.
Example of Hikam by Ibn Ata Allah:
<p>“Desire the presence of God, not absence, for present with one moment of clarity you find the ocean in a drop, eternity in an eye-blink.”</p>
Further Reading
- “The Qur’an Translation and Study” by Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall - a significant work on the Quran.
- “Avicenna and the Visionary Recital” by Henry Corbin - an engaging elucidation on Ibn Sina’s philosophy.
- “The Sublime Science of Hikmah: The Illuminationist School of Suhrawardi” by John Walbridge - examining the illuminationists’ philosophy.
- “The Book of Wisdoms: Kitab al-Hikam” by Ibn Ata Allah - contains the wisdom sayings of this influential Sufi.
Takeaways
- Hikmah incorporates divine wisdom as much as practical, everyday sciences.
- It has influenced many branches of Islamic and philosophical thought, particularly through figures such as Ibn Sina and Suhrawardi.
- Sufi aphorisms expand hikmah into spirituality and poetic wisdom, acting as guides for self-improvement and enlightenment.
Conclusion
In summary, hikmah in Islamic discourse spans religious, philosophical, and practical knowledge. It illuminates the path for understanding divine will and the ethical foundations of human behavior. A continued exploration into this concept can reveal deeper insights into historical and contemporary Islamic ethos.
