Nūn (نون)
Definition and Occurrence
Nūn (نون) is the letter ‘N’ in Arabic, and it holds particular significance in the Islamic sacred text, especially as an isolated letter appearing at the beginning of the 68th chapter (Sūrah Al-Qalam) of the Qur’an.
Etymology
The word نُوْنٌ (nūn) originates from the Arabic language, denoting the letter ‘N’ and also meaning ‘inkstand’ or ‘fish’. The letter ن is the 25th letter of the Arabic alphabet.
Appearance in the Qur’an
Nūn is notably the introductory letter in the 68th Sūrah of the Qur’an, also known as Sūrah Al-Qalam (The Pen):
<p>نٓ وَٱلۡقَلَمِ وَمَا یَسۡطُرُونَ</p> <p>“Nūn. By the Pen and what they inscribe.”</p>
(Qur’an 68:1)
Interpretations
Al-Baiẓāwī’s Commentary
The renowned Islamic commentator Al-Baiẓāwī provides several insights yet ultimately acknowledges the enigmatic nature of ‘Nūn’:
- Inkstand: Nūn could denote an inkstand, referencing the ‘Pen’ mentioned in the first verse, symbolizing knowledge and divine decree.
- Fish: It may also refer to the fish that swallowed the Prophet Jonah (Yūnus), mentioned later in the same Sūrah at the 48th verse.
- Mystical Significance: Al-Baiẓāwī leans towards the interpretation that Nūn is a mystery, an initial whose complete understanding eludes human comprehension.
Significance in Islamic Theology
The mystical letters, called Muqatta’at (المقطعات), which include ن, appear at the beginning of several other chapters in the Qur’an. These are generally understood to hold deep, divine meanings known only to Allah.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: نون
- Turkish: نون (Nun)
Further Reading
To gain deeper insights into Nūn and related topics, consider the following scholarly works:
- “The Qur’an and its Interpreters” by Mahmoud Ayoub.
- “Tafsir al-Qurtubi: Classical Commentary of the Holy Qur’an” by Imam al-Qurtubi.
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
Takeaways
- The letter Nūn (ن) holds special significance in the Qur’an, most notably starting Sūrah Al-Qalam.
- Its interpretations range from symbols of wisdom and knowledge (inkstand) to historical references (fish), yet its true meaning remains a divine mystery.
- Understanding Nūn requires engaging with classical and contemporary Qur’anic exegesis, reflecting the depth and richness of Islamic intellectual traditions.
Conclusion
Nūn (نون) exemplifies the depth and often mysterious nature of the Qur’anic text. While its exact significance may remain beyond human comprehension, it continues to inspire scholarly exploration and devotion within the Islamic tradition.
