Jeddah: Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Introduction
Jeddah (Arabic: جدة, Jiddah) is a historically and religiously significant city located on the coast of the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. As the principal seaport of Arabia, it serves as a vital hub for trade and travel. Jeddah is also one of the Mīqāt or stages where pilgrims on their journey to Mecca for the Hajj don the Iḥrām, the sacred pilgrim’s robe. In Islamic tradition, Jeddah holds additional significance as the legendary burial place of Eve (Hawwa), the first woman.
Etymology
The name “Jeddah” (جدة) derives from the Arabic word for grandmother, reflecting the city’s association with Eve, who is considered the ‘grandmother’ of humanity. This symbolic connection enhances its spiritual importance within Islamic culture.
Overview
Principal Seaport
Jeddah is the primary seaport of Saudi Arabia, acting as a crucial gateway for trade and commerce. Historically, it has facilitated the flow of goods and ideas, contributing to its cosmopolitan character.
Mīqāt for Pilgrims
In the context of Hajj, Jeddah serves as one of the Mīqāt, specific geographical points where pilgrims must enter a state of spiritual purity by donning the Iḥrām. This ritual is a mandatory rite of passage for all Muslims undertaking the pilgrimage to Mecca.
Eve’s Sepulchre
According to Islamic tradition, Jeddah is also known as the burial site of Eve. Early medieval references and local traditions often cite that Eve’s grave measures around 120 paces from head to waist and 80 paces from the waist to heel, highlighting her monumental stature in folklore. Although this claim is largely symbolic and lacks archaeological validation, it adds a layer of spiritual allure to the city.
Further Readings
For those interested in deepening their understanding of Jeddah and its multifaceted significance, the following books are recommended:
- “The Hajj: An Ethnography of the Pilgrimage to Mecca” by Eric Tagliacozzo
- “Jeddah: City of Art” by Hani M. Sindi
- “Islamic Pilgrimage” by Richard Harper
- “The Seaport City of Jeddah: Tradition and Modernization” by Abd al-Rahman Zayd Sulayman
Takeaways and Conclusion
Jeddah is not only geographically significant but is also imbued with rich religious and cultural history. As a principal seaport, it plays a crucial role in the economic landscape of Arabia. As a Mīqāt for Hajj pilgrims, it fulfills an essential religious function. The traditional association with Eve’s sepulchre adds a unique spiritual dimension to its significance.
In conclusion, Jeddah’s multifaceted identity exemplifies the blend of commerce, tradition, and spirituality that defines much of the Islamic world. Its role in facilitating Hajj and its symbolic connection to humanity’s ‘grandmother’ enrich its historical and cultural tapestry.
