External Inspiration in Islam: Types and Significance
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: إلإلهام (Ilhām)
- Turkish: İlham
Types of External Inspiration
1. Waḥyu Qurʾān
Definition: Waḥyu Qurʾān refers to the divine revelation received directly from the angel Gabriel and transmitted to the Prophet Muhammad. This form of inspiration is explicitly recognized in the Qurʾān.
- Etymology: The term “waḥyu” (وَحْيٌ) means “revelation” or “inspiration”. “Qurʾān” (قُرْآن) refers to the holy book of Islam.
- Explanation: It is known as “Waḥy matlū” (وَحْي مَتْلُو), meaning the recited revelation, highlighting its verbal transmission.
2. Ishāratu ʾl-Malak
Definition: This type of inspiration involves receiving divine insight from the angel Gabriel without spoken words. It can be more abstract and spiritual in nature.
- Etymology: “Ishāratu” (إِشارَةٌ) means “indication” or “sign”. “Malak” (مَلَك) means “angel”.
- Notable Example: The Prophet Muhammad once noted, “the Holy Ghost has breathed into my heart,” indicating a non-verbal divine inspiration.
3. Ilhām (Waḥyu qalb)
Definition: Ilhām, or Waḥyu qalb, is an inspiration perceived through the “light of prophecy” in the heart of the Prophet. This kind of revelation extends to saints (walī) and may be true or untrue.
- Etymology: “Ilhām” (إِلْهام) means “inspiration” or “intuition”. “Waḥyu qalb” (وَحْيُ قَلْب) translates to “heart’s inspiration”.
- Application: While primarily associated with prophecy, this inspiration can also be attributed to saints, highlighting its spiritual and personal nature.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Qur’an: A New Translation” by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem
- “Revelation and Prophethood in Islam” by Sayyid Muhammad Baqir al-Sadr
- “Introduction to the Quran” by Abdullah Saeed
- “The Concept of Revelation in Islam” by Hans Bernhard Schacht
Takeaways and Conclusion
- Role of Revelations: The different types of external inspiration highlight the multifaceted ways divine messages were received by the Prophet Muhammad.
- Significance: Understanding these forms helps in comprehending the nature of Quranic revelations and their implications in Islamic theology.
- Applications: While Waḥyu Qurʾān is reserved for the recorded Scriptures, Ishāratu ʾl-Malak, and Ilhām provide insights into the profound spiritual experiences of the Prophet and later saints.
By studying these different forms of inspiration, one gains a deeper understanding of the foundations of Islamic faith and the prophetic tradition.
