Lapwing - Hudhud (هدهد)
Arabic: Hudhud (هدهد)
Overview
The Lapwing, known in Arabic as Hudhud (هدهد), is a significant bird in Islamic literature. Mentioned specifically in the Qur’an (Surah An-Naml, 27:20), this bird is noted for carrying a letter from King Solomon (Sulaiman) to the Queen of Sheba. The lapwing corresponds to the דּוּכִיפַת (dukhiphat) in the Old Testament (Lev. 11:19, Deut. 14:18) and the Greek ἔποψ (epops). In modern terms, it is identified with the hoopoe bird.
Etymology
- Arabic: هدهد (Hudhud)
- Hebrew: דּוּכִיפַת (Dukhiphat)
- Greek: ἔποψ (Epops)
Qur’anic Reference
The Hudhud appears in Surah An-Naml, where it plays a pivotal role in the story of King Solomon:
<p><strong>Qur’an 27:20</strong> - “He reviewed the birds and said, ‘How is it I do not see al-Hudhud? Is he, then, amongst the absent?’”</p>
Scholarly Commentary
Islamic scholars like al-Jalālān and al-Baiẓāwī narrate that after King Solomon completed the Temple of Jerusalem, he embarked on a pilgrimage to Makkah and, thereafter, traveled to Yemen. Upon arriving at Ṣanʿāʾ, Solomon sought water for ablution, relying on the lapwing’s reputed ability to locate underground water sources. The bird, known for its sagacity, spotted another lapwing and learned about the city of Saba (Sheba), thus carrying crucial information back to Solomon.
Cultural and Religious Significance
The story of the Hudhud is often cited to exemplify:
- Divine Wisdom and Guidance: The bird’s ability to locate water and bring news signifies divine provision and guidance.
- Importance of Communication: Carrying the letter from Solomon to the Queen of Sheba highlights the critical role of communication in diplomacy and governance.
- Incurred Divine Duty: The narratives depict how even animals play roles in fulfilling God’s plan.
References and Suggested Reading
- Qur’an: Surah An-Naml (Chapter 27)
- Tafsir al-Jalalayn by al-Jalālān for detailed exegesis
- Tafsir al-Baydawi by al-Baiẓāwī
- The Qur’an and Its Interpreters by Mahmoud Ayoub
- Bible: Leviticus 11:19 and Deuteronomy 14:18 for biblical references
- The Birds of the Qur’an by M. Kasim Bilmen for symbolic interpretations of birds in Islamic scripture
Key Takeaways
- The Hudhud or lapwing holds a unique place in Islamic tradition due to its role in the narratives of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.
- The bird’s story exemplifies themes of divine wisdom, guidance, and the importance of emissaries in conveying messages.
- Recognized across various religious texts and cultural traditions, the bird also signifies the interconnectedness of Abrahamic faiths and their shared symbols.
Conclusion
The story of the Hudhud in Islamic scripture not only enriches the cultural tapestry of the Qur’an but also conveys valuable ethical and spiritual lessons. Its mention underscores the importance of seemingly small agents in the grand scope of divine operations and the interconnected roles of all creatures in achieving God’s intent.
