Red Sea in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
The Red Sea, known in Arabic as al-Baḥru ʾl-Aḥmar (البحر الاحمر), holds profound significance in Islamic theology, history, and its mention in the Qur’an. This entry delves into its etymology, Qur’anic references, and historical background.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: al-Baḥru ʾl-Aḥmar (البحر الاحمر)
- Turkish: Kızıldeniz
The Arabic term “al-Baḥru ʾl-Aḥmar” translates to “The Red Sea.” The etymology of “Aḥmar” (red) can be linked to the occasional reddish hue of the water caused by certain types of algae blooms, contributing to the sea’s name.
Qur’anic References
The Red Sea is frequently mentioned in the Qur’an under different contexts, primarily referred to as al-Baḥr (the Sea). Notable references include:
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Sūrah al-Baqarah (2:50):
<p>“And [recall] when We parted the sea for you and saved you and drowned the people of Pharaoh while you were looking on.”</p>
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Sūrah Yunus (10:90):
<p>“And We brought the Children of Israel across the sea, and Pharaoh and his soldiers pursued them in tyranny and enmity until, when drowning overtook him, he said, ‘I believe that there is no deity except that in whom the Children of Israel believe, and I am of the Muslims.’”</p>
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Sūrah al-A’raf (7:163):
<p>“And ask them about the town that was by the sea, when they transgressed in [the matter of] the Sabbath - when their fish came to them openly on their Sabbath day, and the day they had no Sabbath they did not come to them. Thus did We give them trial because they were defiantly disobedient.”</p>
Historical Context
In Islamic and Muhammad-centric literature, the Red Sea is also known by another name, Baḥru ʾl-Qulzum (or Qalzam):
- Jalālu ʾd-Dīn, a prominent commentator, equates Qulzum with the ancient town Ailah (modern-day Elath), mentioned in the Bible (Deuteronomy 2:8).
- Strabo’s reference (Geographica xvi. p. 768): The Red Sea is referred to as “Αἴλανα” by the Greek geographer Strabo, coinciding with the historic and geographic placement of Qulzum.
Significance
The Red Sea is pivotal in Islamic theology for its narrative featuring the escape of the Children of Israel from Pharaoh, an event seen as a sign of divine intervention and justice.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Islam and the History of the Red Sea” by John Hansman
- “Geography and Islamic Civilization” by David A. King
- “The Qur’an: Text, Interpretation, and Translation” by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem
Takeaways and Conclusion
- The Red Sea, called al-Baḥru ʾl-Aḥmar in Arabic, is significantly referenced in the Qur’an and Islamic historical texts.
- The Qur’anic mentions emphasize divine miracles, such as the parting of the sea and escape from tyranny, underscoring God’s power and protection.
- Historical references to Baḥru ʾl-Qulzum highlight its importance in ancient trade routes and early Islamic civilizations.
Theological and historical understanding of the Red Sea enriches the knowledge about its cultural relevance, interpretative significance, and its perpetual mention in Islamic tradition.
