Isaiah (Shaʿyāʾ) - Significance in Islamic Context
Isaiah, known as Shaʿyāʾ (شعياء) in Arabic, holds a notable, albeit non-mentioned, position in the Qur’anic narratives. While the Qur’an does not explicitly reference him, Islamic tradition, particularly as interpreted by later commentators like al-Baiẓāwī, acknowledges his prophetic mission.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: Shaʿyāʾ (شعياء)
- Turkish: İşaya
Role and Significance in Islamic Tradition
Isaiah, or Shaʿyāʾ ibn Amsiyā (Isaiah, son of Amoz), is grouped among the prophets significant to both the Islamic and Judeo-Christian traditions. His role in Islamic narratives often intersects with broader stories of the Children of Israel and their perceived disobedience and transgressions.
Islamic Interpretations of Isaiah’s Mission
Islamic exegesis illuminates Isaiah’s role through historical accounts and commentary on Qur’anic verses. Al-Baiẓāwī, discussing Surah Al-Isra (Sūratu ’l-Miʿrāj) 17:4, links Isaiah to the prophesized misdeeds of the Children of Israel:
<p>“We decreed to the children of Isrāʾīl in the Book, ‘Ye shall verily do evil in the earth twice,’”</p>
Al-Baiẓāwī interprets these “two sins” as:
- The murder of Shaʿyāʾ ibn Amsiyā (Isaiah) or Armiyā (Jeremiah),
- The murder of Zakariyyā (Zachariah) and Yahyā (John the Baptist), and the intention of killing ‘Isā (Jesus).
Comparative Context in Judeo-Christian Tradition
In the Bible, Isaiah is a major prophet whose ministry is documented extensively in the Book of Isaiah. He is recognized for his prophecies concerning the coming of the Messiah and the narrative of suffering servant, themes which resonate through Christian theological perspectives.
Further Reading and References
For a more in-depth understanding of Isaiah’s significance across religious traditions, the following books are recommended:
- “The Prophets” by Abraham J. Heschel - An exploration of the lives and missions of the Hebrew prophets.
- “Isaiah: Prophet, Seer, and Poet” by Victor L. Ludlow - A comprehensive look at Isaiah’s prophecies and their implications.
- “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” by Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti - Classical Islamic commentary on the Qur’an that provides context for various prophets mentioned.
- “Muhammad: Man and Prophet” by Adil Salahi - Contextualizing prophet narratives in Islam.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Isaiah, termed Shaʿyāʾ in Islamic tradition, bridges theological narratives across Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Although the Qur’an does not explicitly mention him, subsequent Islamic scholarship recognizes his profound influence and intertwines his mission with critical exegetical interpretations of Qur’anic verses related to the Children of Israel.
By studying Isaiah’s role across these traditions, scholars and students gain valuable insights into the shared and distinct elements within Abrahamic faiths.
Increasing awareness and appreciation of such interwoven histories not only enriches scholarly comprehension but also fosters interfaith understanding and respect.
