Israel (Isrāʾīl) in Islam
Definition and Etymology
Israel (Isrāʾīl) in Arabic (اسرائيل) is the surname given to Yaʿqūb (Jacob) in Islamic tradition. The term is derived from Hebrew, with Al Baiẓāwī, a renowned Islamic scholar, explaining that it means “Ṣufwatu ʾllāh” which translates to “the sincere friend of God,” or according to some interpretations, “ʿAbdu ʾllāh” meaning “the servant of God.”
Arabic Translation: اسرائيل Turkish Translation: İsrail
Significance in Islamic Texts
Banū Isrāʾīl (بنو اسرائيل), meaning “the children of Israel,” is frequently mentioned in the Qur’an as referring to the descendants of Yaʿqūb. One notable mention is the seventeenth chapter of the Qur’an, known as Sūratu ʾl-Miʿrāj or Sūratu Banī Isrāʾīl. This chapter deals with the night journey (Isrāʾ) and the ascension (Miʿrāj) of the Prophet Muhammad, as well as various admonitions and stories involving the children of Israel.
Historical and Theological Context
In Islamic tradition, Yaʿqūb (Jacob) is considered a prophet and patriarch. His descendants, the Banū Isrāʾīl, hold significant historical and theological importance, as they are central to many narratives involving prophets and divine guidance in the Qur’an. The term Isrāʾīl hence signifies a connection to the lineage and spiritual mission entrusted to Yaʿqūb and his progeny.
Related Qur’anic Verses
- Qur’an 17:2: “And We gave Moses the Scripture and made it a guidance for the Children of Israel (Isrāʾīl), that you not take other than Me as [a Disposing of] affairs.”
- Qur’an 2:47: “O Children of Israel (Isrāʾīl), remember My favor that I have bestowed upon you and that I preferred you over the worlds.”
Further Reading
To gain a deeper understanding of the term and its significance, consider the following books:
- “Tafsir al-Baizawi: Contextualized Interpretation of Selected Verses” - A classical exegesis that delves into Qur’anic commentary including the mentions of Banū Isrāʾīl.
- “The Qur’an: An Encyclopedia” by Oliver Leaman - Provides detailed entries on various Islamic terms including Israel.
- “The Children of Israel: Exodus and the Heritage of the Biblical Nation” by Nicholas de Lange - Although more focused on Judeo-Christian perspectives, offers insights for comparative studies.
Takeaways
- Isrāʾīl is another name for the prophet Yaʿqūb (Jacob) in Islamic tradition.
- The term signifies “the sincere friend of God” or “the servant of God.”
- Banū Isrāʾīl, meaning “the children of Israel,” are the descendants of Yaʿqūb and hold significant mention in the Qur’an.
- Sūratu Banī Isrāʾīl references the night journey (Isrāʾ) and ascension (Miʿrāj) of Prophet Muhammad.
Conclusion
Understanding the term Isrāʾīl within an Islamic context sheds light on its rich historical and theological importance. It reflects the deeply intertwined narratives of the prophets and their progeny, supporting the broader tapestry of Islamic teaching and Qur’anic guidance.
By studying the term Isrāʾīl alongside related Qur’anic verses and historical texts, one can appreciate the depth and complexity of Islamic tradition surrounding the figure of Yaʿqūb and his lineage.
