Moon in Islam

Etymology and Translations

• Arabic: qamar (قمر)
• Turkish: ay

Introduction

The moon, known as “qamar” (قمر) in Arabic, holds a significant place in Islamic tradition and theology. It is mentioned numerous times in the Qur’an and is associated with various symbolic and eschatological themes. Additionally, the moon has inspired specific rituals and cultural practices among Muslims.

Qur’anic References

The moon is frequently mentioned in the Qur’an, with Prophet Muhammad himself swearing by it on three notable occasions. Below are some key references:

• Oaths by the Moon:

  • Sūrah 74:35 “And I swear by the moon”
  • Sūrah 84:18 “And by the moon when it becomes full”
  • Sūrah 91:2 “And [by] the moon when it follows the sun”

• Creation and Function:

  • Sūrah 10:5 “It is He who made the sun a shining light and the moon a derived light and determined for it phases - that you may know the number of years and account [of time].”
  • Sūrah 71:15 “Do you not consider how Allah has created seven heavens in layers and made the moon therein as a light?”

• Cosmic Order:

  • Sūrah 31:29 “Do you not see that Allah causes the night to enter the day and causes the day to enter the night and subjected the sun and the moon, each running for a specified term?”

• Eschatological Significance:

  • Sūrah 75:8 “And the moon darkens”

The Splitting of the Moon

The most notable mention of the moon in the Qur’an is in Sūrah 54, also known as “Sūratu’l-Qamar” (the Chapter of the Moon). This chapter begins with a reference to the splitting of the moon, a topic surrounded by scholarly debate and interpretation:

• Sūrah 54:1-2 “The Hour has come near, and the moon has split [in two]. And if they see a miracle, they turn away and say, ‘Passing magic.’”

Interpretations

• Traditional View: Scholars like Al-Bayḍāwī view this as a miracle performed by Prophet Muhammad when asked for a sign by the unbelievers. They assert that the moon physically split.
• Symbolic View: Other interpretations suggest that the splitting of the moon is a metaphorical expression referring to one of the signs of the Day of Judgment.

Rituals and Cultural Practices

During a lunar eclipse, devout Muslims are expected to perform the “Salat al-Khusuf,” which is a special prayer that involves two units (rak’ahs). This reflects the deep spiritual and ritualistic connection Muslims have with the celestial bodies described in Islamic texts.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

1. “The Quran and the Moon: Scientific Reflections on Allah’s Signs” by Harun Yahya - This book explores the references to the moon in the Qur’an and attempts to connect them to modern scientific understanding.
2. “Al-Itqān fī ‘Ulūm al-Qur’ān” by Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti - Offers an extensive commentary on various aspects of the Qur’an, including its miraculous events.
3. “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” by Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti - Provides detailed exegesis on Qur’anic verses, including those referencing the moon.

Takeaways

• The moon is significantly mentioned in the Qur’an and Islamic tradition.
• It serves not only as a celestial marker but also holds eschatological and symbolic meanings.
• Rituals like Salat al-Khusuf demonstrate the integration of lunar phenomena into Islamic worship practices.

Conclusion

In Islam, the moon is more than just a celestial body; it represents divine signs and is laden with spiritual, eschatological, and symbolic meanings. Its frequent mentions in the Qur’an underline its importance in the Islamic worldview, reflecting God’s grandeur and the intricate order of the universe. Understanding these references provides deeper insight into Islamic cosmology and spiritual practices.