Sarah
Definition
Sarah, the wife of the prophet Abraham and the mother of Isaac, is an important figure in Islamic tradition. While she is not mentioned by name in the Quran, she is prominent in various hadiths. Sarah is renowned for her physical beauty, unwavering faithfulness to God, and her fidelity to her husband, Abraham.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: The name “Sarah” is derived from the Hebrew word שָׂרָה (Sarāh), which means “princess” or “noblewoman”.
- Arabic: سارة
- Turkish: Sara
Role in Islamic Tradition
Sarah’s story is often recounted in Islamic texts and traditions for the following reasons:
Physical Beauty and Faithfulness
Sarah is frequently highlighted for her exceptional beauty and her deep faith in God. These qualities made her a revered figure among Muslim communities.
Story of Barrenness and Hagar
Due to her initial barrenness, Sarah offered her handmaid, Hagar, to Abraham as a secondary wife. This act is seen as a significant moment in Islamic narratives, showing her selflessness in the face of personal struggles.
Birth of Isaac and Jealousy
After the miraculous birth of her own son, Isaac, Sarah became jealous of Hagar’s son, Ishmael (Arabic: إسماعيل, Ismail). Her jealousy led her to ask Abraham to send Hagar and Ishmael away. This event is crucial in Islamic tradition as it sets the foundation for the lineage of Ishmael, who is considered a prophet and an ancestor of the Prophet Muhammad.
References in Hadith
Although Sarah is not directly mentioned in the Quran, hadith texts provide considerable insights into her life and legacy. Her story and her virtues are commemorated and respected within the Islamic scholarly tradition.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Prophet Abraham: A Patriach’s Journey” by Carol L. Meyers
- “Hadith: Muhammad’s Legacy in the Medieval and Modern World” by Jonathan A.C. Brown
- “Women in the Quran, Traditions, and Interpretation” by Barbara Freyer Stowasser
Takeaways and Conclusion
Sarah is a respected figure in Islamic tradition, not only for her roles as a wife and mother of prophets but also for the complex human struggles she faced, which are echoed in her narrative. Her story highlights lessons of faith, sacrifice, and fidelity, enriching the broader understanding of prophetic legacies within Islam.
Her life experiences set foundational narratives that emphasize faith in divine timing and resilience through trials, resonating deeply with Muslims’ theological and cultural perspectives.
