Tradition II: Abraham, Hagar, and Ishmael in Islamic Tradition

Introduction

In Islamic tradition, the story of Abraham (Ibrāhīm), Hagar (Hājar), and their son Ishmael (Ismāʿīl) carries profound theological and cultural significance. This narrative not only forms a part of the rich tapestry of Islamic history but also underpins some of the fundamental rituals performed during the Hajj pilgrimage.

Etymology and Translations

Etymology

• Abraham (Ibrāhīm): The name is believed to originate from the Akkadian “Avram” or “Abū-rāmu” meaning “Exalted Father.” In Arabic, Ibrāhīm (إِبْرَاهِيم‎) reflects a similar veneration.
• Hagar (Hājar): The name Hagar (هَاجَر‎) is of uncertain origin but could be related to the Hebrew term “Hagar,” meaning “flight” or “fugitive.”
• Ishmael (Ismāʿīl): Derived from the Hebrew “Yishmāʿēl,” meaning “God will hear.” In Arabic, Ismāʿīl (إِسْمَاعِيل‎) carries the same connotation.

Translations

• Arabic:
  • Abraham: إِبْرَاهِيم‎ (Ibrāhīm)
  • Hagar: هَاجَر (Hājar)
  • Ishmael: إِسْمَاعِيل (Ismāʿīl)
• Turkish:
  • Abraham: İbrahim
  • Hagar: Hacer
  • Ishmael: İsmail

The Story in Islamic Tradition

The Narrative

In Islamic tradition, Abraham brought his wife Hagar and his son Ishmael to an uninhabited and barren land, which would later become Mecca. The following are key elements of the story:

• Abandonment and Trust: Hagar expresses her concern about being left alone in the wilderness. However, upon learning that it was God’s command, she accepts her fate, trusting in God’s provision.
• Prayer of Abraham: As Abraham leaves, he prays to God, asking Him to care for his family, endow them with sustenance, and turn people’s hearts towards them. His prayer is a demonstration of his unwavering faith.
• Hagar’s Desperation: Faced with thirst and the life-threatening condition of her son, Hagar runs between two hills, Safā and Marwā, seven times in search of water. This act is commemorated in the Sa’i ritual during Hajj.
• Zamzam Well: An angel appears and brings forth water from the ground, creating the well of Zamzam. Hagar fills her skin with water and drinks, thereby saving her son’s life.

Significance in Islamic Practice

• Hajj and Umrah: The Sa’i ritual, which involves running between Safā and Marwā, replicates Hagar’s search for water.
• Zamzam Water: The well of Zamzam remains a significant source of spiritual sustenance and a reminder of Hagar’s faith and perseverance.

Comparative Analysis with the Biblical Account

The Islamic narrative closely aligns with the account in the Bible (Genesis 21:9-21), which describes Hagar and Ishmael’s expulsion, their desperation in the wilderness, and God’s provision. Both traditions emphasize remarkable acts of faith and divine intervention, although the specific details and theological implications vary.

Islamic and Scholarly Interpretations

• Sources: The story is narrated in various Hadiths and Tafsir literature. Scholars like Ibn ʿAbbās have detailed the significance of the events.
• Debates: There are discussions among Muslim scholars regarding specific aspects, such as whether Isaac or Ishmael was to be sacrificed, but the prevalent belief is that Ishmael was the intended sacrifice and that the Eid al-Adha commemorates this event.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

• “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq
• “Tafsir Ibn Kathir” by Ibn Kathir
• “The Hajj: Pilgrimage in Islam” by F. E. Peters
• “The Bible and the Qur’an: A Comparative Study” by Gabriel Said Reynolds
• “Islamic Civilization” by S.E. Al-Djazairi

Key Takeaways

• The story of Abraham, Hagar, and Ishmael is foundational to Islamic beliefs and practices, illustrating themes of faith, divine providence, and human perseverance.
• Rituals like the Sa’i and the significance of the Zamzam well connect Muslims with their historical and spiritual heritage.
• The comparative study of Islamic and Biblical narratives provides deeper insights into shared monotheistic traditions and their unique developments.

Conclusion

The tradition of Abraham, Hagar, and Ishmael, as preserved in Islamic sources, is a powerful testament to their enduring faith and submission to God’s will. It continues to enrich the spiritual life of Muslims and serves as a bridge between sacred history and contemporary religious practice.