Samuel (Arabic: Ishmawīl or اشمويل) - A Prophetic Figure in Islam and Judaism
Introduction
Samuel (Arabic: Ishmawīl or اشمويل; Hebrew: שְׁמוּאֵל) is a significant prophetic figure in both Islamic and Judaic traditions. Samuel is mentioned in the Qur’an and occupies an important place in Jewish scriptures. This entry aims to provide an in-depth overview of his role, significance, and interpretations across Islamic theology and exegesis.
Etymology
The name Samuel originates from the Hebrew name שְׁמוּאֵל (Sh’mu’el), which means “God has heard” or “Name of God.” In Arabic, he is referred to as إشمويل (Ishmawīl) or شمويل (Shamwīl).
Qur’anic Reference
Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:247)
Samuel is implicitly referred to in the Qur’an, specifically in Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:247):
<p>“And their Prophet said to them: ‘Indeed, Allah has appointed Talut (Saul) as a king over you…’”</p>
Although Samuel is not mentioned by name, Islamic scholars commonly reference him as the prophet mentioned in this verse. He was the one to whom the Children of Israel appealed for a king to lead them into battle.
Islamic Exegesis
Islamic exegesis (tafsir) provides various interpretations of Samuel’s identity. One notable commentator, Al-Husain, discusses the ambiguity around who this prophet was. He suggests that it could have been:
- Yūshaʿ ibn Nūn (Joshua, son of Nun)
- Shamʿūn ibn Safiyā
- Ishmawīl (Samuel/Shamwīl)
Tafsīr-i-Ḥusainī
The Tafsīr-i-Ḥusainī states:
<p>“Ḥusain, the commentator, says it is not quite certain who he was. He might have been either Yūshaʿ ibn Nūn, Shamʿūn ibn Safiyā, or Ishmawīl.”</p>
Kamālān’s Interpretation
The Kamālān brothers, famous Islamic theologians, offer an additional perspective. They assert that:
<p>“His name was Shamwīl, but originally Ismāʾīl, and that the meaning is the same.”</p>
Significance in Judaism
In Judaism, Samuel is celebrated as a prophet, judge, and leader of Israel. He anointed the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David, and played a crucial role in the transition from the period of judges to the monarchy.
Books for Further Studies
- “Stories of the Prophets” (قصص الأنبياء) by Ibn Kathir
- “The Encyclopaedia of Islam” edited by P.J. Bearman, Th. Bianquis, C.E. Bosworth, E. van Donzel and W.P. Heinrichs
- “The Comparative Study of the Bible and the Qur’an” by Gabriel Said Reynolds
Takeaways
- Samuel, known as Ishmawīl or Shamwīl in Islamic tradition, is a prophetic figure recognized in both Islam and Judaism.
- He is implicitly referenced in the Qur’an, and Islamic scholars have offered various interpretations regarding his identity.
- Theologians such as Al-Husain and the Kamālān brothers provide deeper insights into his role and significance.
- Understanding Samuel’s dual representation in Islamic and Judaic traditions highlights the interconnectedness of Abrahamic faiths.
Conclusion
Samuel (Ishmawīl/Shamwīl) serves as a notable figure bridging the commonalities between Islamic and Judaic traditions. While interpretations of his identity and role vary across different sources, his significance remains profound in the religious histories of both faiths.
By grasping the multi-faceted interpretations of Samuel’s identity and role within Islamic and Judaic traditions, one gains a nuanced understanding of this prophetic figure’s significance, illustrating the shared heritage of the Abrahamic religions.
