Nineveh - Historical and Islamic Context
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: نِينَوَى (Nīnawā)
- Hebrew: נִינְוֵה
- English: Nineveh
Overview
Nineveh, known in Arabic as Nīnawā (نينوى) and in Hebrew as נִינְוֵה, is an ancient Assyrian city located on the eastern bank of the Tigris River. Although Nineveh is not explicitly mentioned by name in the Qurʾān, it holds significant importance in Islamic tradition due to its association with the Prophet Jonah (Yunus in Arabic).
Qur’anic Reference
- Qur’an, Surah 37:147: “And We sent him to a hundred thousand people or more.”
This verse refers to the mission of Jonah (Yunus) who was sent by Allah to the people of Nineveh. According to Islamic exegesis, such as the commentary by al-Baiẓāwī, Nineveh is identified as the city referenced in this verse.
Historical Significance
Nineveh was a major city in ancient Mesopotamia, serving as the capital of the Assyrian Empire. It is historically known for its grandeur, expansive walls, and the famous library of Ashurbanipal. The city’s ruins are near the modern-day city of Mosul in Iraq.
Prophet Jonah (Yunus) and Nineveh
Jonah, who is known as Yunus in Islamic tradition, is a prophet sent by Allah to guide the people of Nineveh to the path of righteousness and away from sin. The story of Jonah’s mission is a powerful narrative about repentance and divine mercy, commonly referenced in Abrahamic faiths.
Suggestion for Further Studies
For readers interested in delving deeper into the historical and religious significance of Nineveh and the story of Jonah, the following books are recommended:
- “Jonah and the Meaning of Our Lives: A Verse-by-Verse Contemporary Commentary” by Steven Bob
- “The Prophet Yunus (Jonah) And The Salvation of Nineveh: In The Qurʾān and Biblical Narratives” by Moslem Bahmani
- “Nineveh and Its Remains” by Austen Henry Layard
Takeaways
- Historical City: Nineveh was a significant and large city in ancient Mesopotamia.
- Qur’anic Reference: Nineveh is implicitly referred to in the Qur’an in relation to Prophet Jonah’s mission.
- Repentance and Mercy: The story of Jonah preaches themes of repentance and divine mercy, shared across major Abrahamic faiths.
Conclusion
Nineveh, or Nīnawā (نينوى) in Arabic, holds a crucial place in both historical and Islamic contexts. Its mention through the mission of Prophet Jonah (Yunus) in the Qur’an underscores themes of guidance, repentance, and divine compassion. Understanding Nineveh’s role within the Islamic tradition provides valuable insights into its cultural and religious significance.
By exploring further literature on Nineveh and Prophet Jonah, students and enthusiasts can gain comprehensive knowledge of its historical and theological importance.
