Nāqūs (ناقوس)
Nāqūs (ناقوس) is a term of great historical and inter-religious significance. Originating from a specific object used in early Christian practices, the nāqūs played a pivotal role in the development of the Islamic call to prayer.
Etymology
The word nāqūs (ناقوس) is Arabic and is traditionally translated as “clapper” or “bell.” This object is used in various contexts, notably in religious settings.
Arabic:
- Nāqūs: ناقوس
Turkish:
- Nakus
Historical Context
In the time of the Prophet Muḥammad, the nāqūs referred to a thin, oblong piece of wood struck with a flexible rod called wabīl (وبيل). This instrument was employed by Christians to summon the faithful to worship. Various methods for the call to prayer were proposed, including lighting a fire or using the nāqūs. Ultimately, the Prophet Muḥammad opted for the aẕān (آذان), the vocal call to prayer, which became one of the most distinct aspects of Islamic religious practice.
Significance in Islamic and Christian Traditions
Islamic Tradition
While the nāqūs was not adopted for Muslim practices, it is interesting to note its consideration and the decision-making process around the establishment of daily calls to worship in Islam. Instead, the aẕān emerged, called out five times a day by the mu’azzin, as a defining feature of Islamic communal life and religious observance.
Reference in Hadith:
- Mishkāt al-Maṣābīḥ, Book IV, Chapter V, Part I, mentions discussions among the Companions about using either fire or the nāqūs before the aẕān was established.
Christian Tradition
The nāqūs is still in use in some Christian traditions, particularly within Greek Orthodox monasteries. Referred to as the simandro (σιμανδρο), this method of summoning the faithful remains a unique and historical practice. It is typically a responsibility assigned to the monks.
Comparisons and Relations
- Islamic Call to Prayer: The aẕān replaces the need for a physical instrument, emphasizing vocal and communal aspects of calling to prayer.
- Christian Practices: The nāqūs or simandro continues in use, serving as a symbolic and practical means of regulation in monastic life.
Visual Representation
The use of the nāqūs in Christian monasteries was documented and illustrated by R. Curzon in his book “Visits to the Monasteries of the Levant” (1833), showcasing its continuous use and cultural significance.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Visits to the Monasteries of the Levant” by Hon. Robert Curzon - An insightful account of monastic life and practices, including the use of the nāqūs.
- “The History of the Azān” by Yūsuf al-Qaradawī - A detailed exploration of how the Islamic call to prayer was established, with references to early considerations like the nāqūs.
- “Muslim-Christian Dialogue” by Badru Kateregga and David Shenk - A work that examines the interfaith interplay between Islamic and Christian practices.
Takeaways
- Nāqūs represents an intersection of Islamic and Christian ritual practices, highlighting the consideration of different methods for religious observance.
- The eventual establishment of the aẕān marks an essential differentiation in Islamic religious life.
- The longevity and ongoing use of the nāqūs in Christian monastic settings underscore its continued cultural and spiritual relevance.
Conclusion
The nāqūs (ناقوس) serves as a historical and cultural touchpoint between Christian and Islamic traditions. Its consideration in early Islamic discussions about prayer rites highlights its importance, while its continued use in Greek Orthodox monasteries preserves its legacy. Understanding the nāqūs enriches our appreciation of both Islamic and Christian ritual practices and their historical evolution.
By exploring the nuances of the nāqūs, we gain a broader perspective on religious traditions and the adaptive nature of worship in different faith communities.
