Ruh

Ruh

Definition

Ruh (Arabic: روح, Turkish: Ruh) is a term used in Islamic theology and philosophy that refers to the spirit or breath of life. In the Qur’an, the term appears twenty-one times and is often understood as the divine force that gives life. It is considered an immaterial, immortal element of living beings and regarded as the true self or soul, distinct from the physical body.

Etymology

The word ruh derives from the Arabic root “ر-و-ح” (r-w-ḥ), which connotes “breath,” “wind,” or “spirit.” It shares etymological kinship with Aramaic and Hebrew words for spirit (רוּחַ rūaḥ) and wind.

Qur’anic Context

In the Qur’an, ruh is multifaceted:

1. Life Force: Represents the imparting of life force by Divine command.
2. Divine Revelations: Interfaces with prophetic revelations as in the case of divine inspiration.
3. Prophets and Divine Entities: It is a title attributed to significant figures like Jesus (Isa as Ruh Allah, Spirit of God) and the angel Gabriel (Ruh al-Qudus, the Holy Spirit).

Theological Interpretation

Islamic theologians and mystics display varied interpretations about ruh:

1. Immaterial and Immortal Element: Defined as part of the human constitution that is distinct from the physical realm.
2. True Self: Conveys the concept of the true essence of a person, often examined in contrast to nafs (self or soul).

Distinction between Ruh and Nafs

• Nafs refers to the animalistic nature or base self, encompassing desires and wants influenced by mortal conditions.
• Ruh, especially in Sufism, is viewed as the higher principle that reflects divine purity and cosmic interconnectedness.

Related Figures

• Jesus (Isa) (عيسى): Titled as Ruh Allah, symbolizing a spiritual connection with the divine.
• Angel Gabriel (جبريل): Named Ruh al-Qudus, acts as a medium of divine messages to the prophets.

Further Reading

For a deeper exploration of the concept of ruh in Islamic thought and its broader theological implications, consider the following works:

1. “The Soul in Islamic Philosophy and Theology” by Richard Gramlich
2. “The Mysteries of the Soul Expounded” by Abu Hamid al-Ghazali
3. “The Essence of Islamic Spirituality: The Role of Ruh in Sufi Thought” by Annemarie Schimmel

Takeaways

• Ruh stands out as a pivotal concept that elucidates the essence of life, spirituality, and the intersection of divine interactions in Islamic belief.
• Understanding the distinction between ruh and nafs is crucial for appreciating the nuanced views in both classical and mystical Islamic thought.

Conclusion

Ruh serves as a foundational motif within Islamic intellectual and spiritual traditions, offering significant insights into human nature, divine-human interaction, and the metaphysical dimensions of existence. The diverse applications and interpretations of ruh epitomize its richness and importance in Islamic philosophy and theology.