Noah, known as Nūḥ (نوح) in Arabic and נוֹחַ in Hebrew, holds a venerable place in Islamic tradition as a prophet (Nabī) and a messenger (Rasūl) of God. This entry delves into his etymology, the Quranic accounts, and his significance in Islam.
Etymology and Translation
- Arabic: Nūḥ (نوح)
- Hebrew: נוֹחַ (Noach or Noah)
- Turkish: Nuh
The name Noah derives from the Hebrew נוֹחַ (Noach), meaning “rest” or “comfort”. The Arabic equivalent, Nūḥ, holds the same connotation and incorporates the theological aspects attributed to him.
Quranic Narratives
The Prophetic Mission of Noah
Noah’s mission is comprehensively described in several Surahs of the Quran. He was sent by God to lead his people back to the monotheistic worship of Allah. His persistent efforts to admonish his people and save them from impending punishment are captured notably in Surah 11 (Hūd) and Surah 71 (Nūḥ).
Surah Hūd (11:27-50)
Noah admonishes his people to avoid idolatry and worship only Allah. Despite his clear signs and warnings, the chiefs and many of his people dismiss him as merely a man like themselves and belittle his followers, who are perceived as the lowliest among them.
1"We formerly sent Noah unto his people, saying, 'Verily I am unto you a plain admonisher that ye worship none but God...' But the chiefs who disbelieved among his people replied, 'We see thee not to be other than a man, like unto us; and we see not any to have followed thee except the meanest of us...' (Surah Hūd 11:27-36)"
When Noah prays for divine intervention, he is instructed to construct an ark (El-Joodee) for the salvation of the believers. Those who reject his message, including his own son Canaan, are drowned in the ensuing flood.
Surah Nūḥ (71:27-29)
The narrative extends to Noah’s supplication to God to not leave any unbeliever on Earth, recognizing their persistent wickedness and potential to lead others astray.
1"And Noah uttered an imprecation upon them, saying, 'O my Lord, leave not upon the earth any one of the unbelievers; for if Thou leave them, they will lead Thy servants into error... (Surah Nūḥ 71:27-29)"
The Ark and the Flood
The construction of the ark, as decreed by God, symbolizes Noah’s obedience and faith. It is said to have taken two years to build, made of Indian plane trees, and divided into three stories for beasts, humans, and birds. According to some commentators like Al-Baiḍāwī, Noah entered the ark on the tenth of Rajab and disembarked on the tenth of Muḥarram, marking a six-month period that became significant in Islamic tradition.
Significance in Islam
Ethical and Theological Lessons
Noah’s story emphasizes themes of patience, perseverance in faith, and unwavering obedience to God’s commands. It also serves as a poignant illustration of God’s mercy towards the obedient and His justice towards the recalcitrant.
Ritualistic Influence
The story reinforces the practice of fasting and reflection. The commemoration of events surrounding Noah’s story, such as Ashura, connects the past prophets’ trials to current religious observances.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Quranic Noah and the Biblical Noah: A Study of Two Flood Narratives” by Irfan A. Omar
- “Noah’s Ark and the Ziusudra Epic: Sumerian Origins of the Flood Myth” by Robert M. Best
- “Stories of the Prophets” by Ibn Kathir
Takeaways and Conclusion
Noah’s (Nūḥ) journey propounds enduring moral and theological principles pivotal to Islamic ethos. Through his narrative, believers are reminded of steadfast faith, the righteousness of following divine guidance, and the reverence of God’s will.
Noah’s role as both a warner and a savior delineates the Quranic portrait of prophetic duties, underlining the consequences for those who disregard divine warnings.
For modern-day Muslims, Noah’s story remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of faith and divine mercy.
