Al-Uzzah
Definition
Al-Uzzah was one of the three major pre-Islamic goddesses venerated at the Kaaba in Mecca before the advent of Islam. She was regarded as the goddess of strength and often depicted in the form of a sacred tree.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: العُزَّى (al-‘Uzzá)
- Turkish: Uzzâ
The name “Al-Uzzah” derives from the Arabic root ʿ-z-z (ع-ز-ز), which connotes power, strength, and glory.
Historical Context
Al-Uzzah was perceived to be a daughter of Allah and was believed to be the progeny from Allah’s union with jinn. Her worship was prevalent among Hellenistic Arabs, and she stood alongside two other major goddesses, al-Lat and Manat.
Representation
Al-Uzzah was commonly symbolized as a sacred tree, embodying natural strength and power, a stark contrast to commonly created idols.
Demise and Islamic Views
The idol and worship practices dedicated to Al-Uzzah were abolished during the conquest of Mecca in 630 C.E., led by the Prophet Muhammad. Following this event, the worship of Al-Uzzah, along with other pagan deities, was denounced as outlined in the Quran (53:19–20), ensuring the monotheistic establishment of Islam.
Quranic References
The condemnation of worship of al-Uzzah is mentioned in the Quran as follows:
- “Have you considered al-Lat and al-Uzzah?”
Books for Further Study
For those interested in deepening their understanding of Al-Uzzah and pre-Islamic Arabian religious practices, the following books are recommended:
- “Pre-Islamic Arabia” by Hitti Philip
- “The Origins of Islam: Gods, Idols and Pagan Mecca” by Aziz Al-Azmeh
Takeaways
- Al-Uzzah was an influential pre-Islamic goddess embodying strength.
- She was revered in pre-Islamic Mecca and was considered kin to other significant goddesses.
- Her worship was eradicated with the rise of Islam, explicitly criticized in the Quran, highlighting the shift towards monotheism.
Conclusion
Al-Uzzah serves as a significant historical and religious figure representing the transition from polytheistic practices to the monotheistic foundation of Islam in Arabian society. Her history underscores the shifts in religious belief systems and cultural dynamics in the early Islamic era.
