Qadīm (قديم)
Definition and Usage
Qadīm (قديم) is an Arabic term that translates to “Ancient” or “Old.” In Islamic theological context, it specifically signifies eternal existence, often pertaining to God. The term is thus integral in discussions about the divine attributes of Allah.
Etymology
The word Qadīm is derived from the Arabic root ق د م (q-d-m), which connotes prior time or precedence. The root signifies something that existed before, establishing the term’s connection to timelessness and eternity.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: قديم (Qadīm)
- Turkish: Kadîm
Theological Significance
In Islamic theology, Al-Qadīm (القديم) refers to “The One without beginning” or “The Eternal.” This epithet emphasizes that God has no beginning in time and thus exists eternally. Another related term is Qadīmu’l-Ayyām (قديم الأيام), which translates to “Ancient of Days,” reinforcing the notion of God’s timeless and eternal nature.
Contextual Usage
| Term | Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Qadīm | Ancient; old | General, can refer to something old |
| Al-Qadīm | The Eternal, The One without beginning | Specific to God in Islamic Theology |
| Qadīmu’l-Ayyām | Ancient of Days | Often refers to God in a poetic or theological context |
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Theology and Creed in Sunni Islam” by A.J. Wensinck - Discusses the development of theological concepts, including divine attributes, in Sunni Islam.
- “Islamic Theology: Traditionalism and Rationalism” by Binyamin Abrahamov - Explores various theological doctrines in Islam, including the concept of God’s eternity.
- “The Divine Attributes” by John Renard - An introduction to the divine attributes in Islam, such as al-Qadīm.
Takeaways
- Eternal Existence: Qadīm signifies ancientness and timelessness, often utilized to describe God in Islamic theology as the Eternal One.
- Linguistic Depth: The term’s root, ق د م (q-d-m), underscores its connection to time and precedence.
- Universal Application: While Qadīm can denote old or ancient objects, its use in theology is reserved for divine contexts.
Conclusion
Qadīm (قديم) embodies a profound theological and philosophical concept in Islam, signifying eternal existence and uncreatedness. Its primary application in describing God highlights the depth of Islamic discourse on the nature of the divine. Through understanding such terms, one gains insight into the intricate and rich theological landscape of Islam.
