Inspiration in Islam (Waḥy)
Definition and Etymology
Waḥy (Arabic: وحى, Turkish: Vahy) translates to “inspiration” or “revelation” and denotes the communication of divine wisdom and guidance to the prophets of Islam. Waḥy is a fundamental concept within Islamic theology, signifying the divine origin of the Qur’an and the guidance revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
Types of Waḥy
According to Islamic scholarship, notably detailed in the work “Nūrul Anwār” by Shaikh Jīwan Aḥmad (A.H. 1130), inspiration (Waḥy) is categorized into two main types: External Inspiration (Waḥy Zāhir) and Internal Inspiration (Waḥy Bāt̤in).
I. External Inspiration (Waḥy Zāhir)
External inspiration is direct revelation from God delivered through various channels:
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Waḥyu Qurʾān (Revelation of the Qur’an):
- This refers to the revelations received from the angel Gabriel (Jibril), spoken directly to the Prophet Muhammad. It is also known as Waḥy Matlū, the recited inspiration, representing the divine words of the Qur’an.
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Ishāratul Malak (Signs from the Angel):
- These revelations occur through means other than direct speech, such as when the Prophet Muhammad remarked that the “Holy Ghost” had influenced his heart.
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Ilhām (Divine Inspiration) or Waḥyu Qalb (Revelation of the Heart):
- This form of inspiration is known through the “light of prophecy” in the heart of the Prophet. Saints (Walīs) may also possess this type of inspiration, though its authenticity varies.
II. Internal Inspiration (Waḥy Bāt̤in)
Internal inspiration is derived through the Prophet’s contemplation and analogical reasoning, similar to the practice of Mujtahidūn (enlightened scholars of Islamic law). It is believed that the Prophet always spoke on religious matters through lower forms of inspiration (Ishāratu L-Malak, Ilhām, or Waḥyu Qalb), making the Ḥadīs̤ or sayings of the Prophet also a form of divine inspiration albeit not of the same nature as the Qur’an. This form of inspiration is referred to as Waḥy Ghair Matlū.
Divine Origin and Importance in Islam
Islamic doctrine asserts that every syllable of the Qur’an originates directly from God. This belief is firmly rooted despite the differences in textual style among the revealed verses. The unified perspective of Islamic scholars led to the collective inclusion of every delivered word in the Qur’an under the divine proclamations, “Qāla ʾllāhu” (“Thus saith the Lord”).
<p><strong>Qur’anic Reference</strong> - Surah An-Najm (53:2-3): <em>“Your lord (ṣāḥib) erreth not, nor is he led astray, neither speaketh he from impulse.”</em></p>
Scholarly Insights
Ibn Khaldūn provides an intricate portrayal of prophetic inspiration, describing signs like altered states of consciousness, heavy breathing, and a perceived disconnection from reality during receiving divine communication. These experiences are manifestations of the Prophet’s absorption into the unseen world, making spiritual visions accessible to human faculties. The conveyed messages are then communicated through whispering or angelic form.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “Ibn Khaldūn: An Intellectual Biography” by Robert Irwin
- “The Qur’an: An Introduction” by Abdullah Saeed
- “Prophecy in Islam: Philosophy and Orthodoxy” by Fazlur Rahman
- “Inspiration and Revelation in the Qur’an” by Gerald R. Hawting
Takeaways and Conclusion
In conclusion, Waḥy or divine inspiration is a cornerstone of Islamic faith, signifying God’s direct interaction with humanity through the Prophets. Its distinct forms—external and internal—highlight the multifaceted nature of divine communication. Understanding these categories helps delineate the unique status of the Qur’an and the supplementary guidance found in the Ḥadīs̤. Through the study of Waḥy, one gains deeper insight into the theological framework that underpins Islam.
By exploring the concept of Waḥy further, one can better appreciate the profound role of prophetic inspiration in shaping religious doctrines, ethical teachings, and the spiritual ethos of Islam.
