Miracles

Miracles - Supernatural Powers in Islam

Supernatural powers given to individuals, commonly known as miracles, are referred to in Islamic lexicons and theology by several terms. These terms encompass various aspects and types of miraculous events. This entry will delve into the etymology, definitions, and significance of miracles within Islamic theology, supported by references from the Qur’an and Hadith.

Etymology and Translations

• Arabic: خوارق (Khawariq - plural), خارق العادة (Kharqul-Adah - singular)
• Turkish: Mucizeler

Terms for Miracles in Islamic Theology

Islamic theology uses eight specific terms to describe miracles or supernatural events:

1. Āyah (آية):

   • Etymology: Means “a sign”
   • Usage: The sole term used in the Qur’an for a miracle.
   • Examples in Qur’an: Surah Al-Hijr 15:1, Surah Ankabut 29:49, Surah Qamar 54:2

2. Muʿjizah (معجزة):

   • Etymology: Means “making weak or feeble”
   • Usage: Specifically refers to miracles performed by prophets.

3. Irhās (ارهاص):

   • Etymology: Means “laying a foundation”
   • Usage: Used for miracles performed by a prophet before assuming their prophetic role.

4. ʿAlāmah (علامة):

   • Etymology: Means “a sign”
   • Usage: Used for signs of the coming Resurrection.

5. Karāmah (كرامة):

   • Etymology: Means “beneficence”
   • Usage: Miracles performed by saints to benefit the people as well as to prove their sainthood.

6. Maʿūnah (معونة):

   • Etymology: Means “help or assistance”
   • Usage: Also refers to wonders performed by saints.

7. Istidrāj (استدراج):

   • Etymology: Means “promoting by degrees”
   • Usage: Denotes miracles facilitated by the Devil with God’s permission.

8. Ihānah (اهانة):

   • Etymology: Means “contempt”
   • Usage: Refers to miracles by the Devil that bring disdain to the performer.

The Qur’an and Miracles

While Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not claim to perform miracles, four instances in the Qur’an are often cited by Muslims as miraculous occurrences:

1. The Clefting of the Moon (Surah Qamar 54:1-2):

2. The Assistance at the Battle of Badr (Surah Al-Imran 3:120-121):

3. The Night Journey (Surah Al-Isra 17:1):

4. The Qur’an itself (Surah Ankabut 29:48):

Hadith and Miracles

Despite the Quranic stance, numerous miracles attributed to Muhammad (PBUH) are recorded in Hadith literature:

1. Curing a Boy (Sahih Bukhari & Sahih Muslim):
2. Talking Animals:
3. Food Multiplication:
4. Natural Phenomenon Manipulation:

Further Reading

For those interested in a deeper understanding of Islamic perspectives on miracles, the following texts are recommended:

• Kitāb al-Muʿjizāt
• Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī
• Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim
• Mishkāt al-Maṣābīḥ

Key Takeaways

• Islamic theology details a nuanced understanding of miracles with specific terms for different types and contexts.
• Miracles are seen as signs from God, mainly facilitated through prophets and saints.
• While the Qur’an takes a skeptical stance on Muhammad’s (PBUH) ability to perform miracles, the Hadith literature provides detailed accounts affirming such occurrences.

Conclusion

Miracles in Islam are multifaceted, bearing theological significance and illustrating divine power. The Qur’an and Hadith offer various perspectives, shaping a rich tradition of belief in supernatural occurrences within Islamic thought.

This structured and expanded entry contextualizes miracles in Islam, offering insight into their complexities and theological implications. Readers are encouraged to explore the recommended texts for further study on this captivating subject.