Prophet in Islam
Etymology and Translations
The term “Prophet” in Islam is primarily expressed through the Arabic words nabī (نبى) and rasūl (رسول), which have specific distinctions in Islamic theology.
- Nabī (نبى): Derived from the Hebrew word nābīʾ (נָבִיא), meaning “one who bubbles forth, as a fountain.” The Arabic lexicon, Al-Qāmūs, derives the word from nubūʾ, meaning “to be exalted.”
- Rasūl (رسول): Meaning “messenger,” implies a special mission has been entrusted.
- Mursal (مرسل): Also meaning “one who is sent.”
In Persian, these titles are translated as paig͟hambar (پيغمبر).
Qur’anic References and Prophetic Office
According to Islamic traditions, notably from the Mishkāt al-Masābīh, there were 124,000 prophets (ambiyāʾ) and 315 apostles or messengers (rusul). Notably, nine exceptionally significant messengers are called Ūlū ʾl-ʿAzm (“possessors of constancy”): Noah, Abraham, David, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.
Special Titles of the Prophets
Some prophets are honored with unique titles in Islamic tradition:
- Adam: Ṣafīyu ʾllāh, the Chosen of God
- Noah: Nabīyu ʾllāh, the Preacher of God
- Abraham: Khalīlu ʾllāh, the Friend of God
- Moses: Kalīmu ʾllāh, the Converser with God
- Jesus: Rūḥu ʾllāh, the Spirit of God
- Muhammad: Rasūlu ʾllāh, the Messenger of God
Sacred Books
Islamic tradition holds that 104 sacred texts were revealed to humanity, categorized at times as Ṣaḥīfah (pamphlets) and Kitāb (books):
- Adam: 10 scriptures
- Seth: 50 scriptures
- Enoch: 30 scriptures
- Abraham: 10 scriptures
- Moses: Taurāt (Torah)
- David: Zabūr (Psalms)
- Jesus: Injīl (Gospel)
- Muhammad: Qurʾān
Prophets Mentioned in the Qur’an
The Qur’an mentions 28 prophets, including but not limited to:
- Adam (آدم)
- Noah (نُوح)
- Abraham (إِبْرَاهِيم)
- Moses (مُوسَى)
- David (دَاوُود)
- Jesus (عِيسَى)
- Muhammad (مُحَمَّد)
Discussions often arise regarding certain figures, such as whether Ẕū ʾl-Qarnain is Alexander the Great.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Tales of the Prophets” (Qiṣaṣu ʾl-Ambiyāʾ) - A Persian text detailing the lives of prophets.
- “Prophets in the Quran: An Introduction to the Quran and Muslim Exegesis” by Wheeler
- “Muhammad and the Qur’an: Text and Context” by Angelika Neuwirth
- “No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam” by Reza Aslan
Takeaways and Conclusion
Understanding the role and titles of prophets in Islam provides deep insight into Islamic theology and its historical narratives. By recognizing the distinctions and the special roles assigned to prophets, one can appreciate the intricate beliefs and values embedded within Islamic tradition.
This detailed exploration of the term “Prophet” in Islam highlights the profound significance attributed to these figures and the breadth of their influence across Islamic teachings, history, and culture. For a deeper knowledge, one is encouraged to consult the suggested texts and delve into Qur’anic studies.
