The concept of Ḥanīf (حنيف) holds a profound significance in the Islamic tradition, particularly in relation to the figure of Abraham (Ibrahim). The term is mentioned several times in the Qur’an, portraying Abraham as a paragon of pure and unadulterated monotheism, distinct from other religious labels present at his time.
Etymology
The word Ḥanīf is derived from the Arabic root ḥ-n-f (ح ن ف), which broadly signifies “to incline or to turn away towards something.” In its Qur’anic context, Ḥanīf conveys a sense of abandoning polytheism and inclining towards pure monotheism.
Background
Particularly noted in the Qur’an, Abraham’s Ḥanīfism is emphasized to be his intrinsic recognition and unwavering worship of one God, rejecting the idolatry of his people. This concept establishes Abraham as a central figure in Islam, revered not just as a prophet, but as an example of steadfast faith.
Verses Highlighting Ḥanīf
- Sūrah al-Baqarah (2:129) - They say, “Be ye Jews or Christians so shall ye be guided!” Say, “Not so! but the faith of Abraham, the Ḥanīf, he was not of the idolaters.”
- Sūrah āl-ʿImrān (3:60) - Abraham was not a Jew nor yet a Christian, but he was a Ḥanīf resigned, and not of the idolaters.
- Sūrah āl-ʿImrān (3:89) - Follow the faith of Abraham, a Ḥanīf, who was not of the idolaters.
- Sūrah al-Anʿām (6:162) - The faith of Abraham, the Ḥanīf, he was not of the idolaters.
- Sūrah an-Naḥl (16:121) - Verily Abraham was an Imām, a Ḥanīf, and was not of the idolaters.
- Sūrah al-Anʿām (6:79) - [Abraham said] “I have turned my face to Him who originated the heaven and the earth as a Ḥanīf, and I am not of the idolaters.”
Cultural Context
While Islam views Abraham primarily as a model of monotheism and pure faith, Jewish and Christian traditions revere him as well, but with distinct attributes in relation to their religious frameworks. In Islam, Abraham’s Ḥanīfism is emphasized to clarify that pure faith predates both Judaism and Christianity.
Synonyms and Related Terms
Synonyms:
- Pure Monotheism: Embracing the worship of one, indivisible God without associating partners.
Antonyms:
- Idolatry (Shirk): Associating partners with God, or practicing polytheism.
Related Terms:
- Tawḥīd: The concept of monotheism central to Islamic belief.
- Prophet Ibrahim: Another term referring to Abraham in the Islamic tradition, emphasizing his prophetic status.
- Millah Ibrahim: Refers to the religious community or nation of Abraham, stressing his foundational role in pure monotheism.
Exciting Facts
- Abraham’s breaking of idols: An act demonstrating his rejection of idolatry and commitment to pure monotheism.
- Ḥanīf as timeless: The Qur’an mentions Ḥanīf to illustrate that true faith (pure monotheism) transcends temporal religious identities like Judaism and Christianity.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Karen Armstrong: “Abraham’s monotheistic revolution continues to resonate in Islam where he is revered as the epitome of faith, ever Hanif – a pure monotheist.”
- Sayyid Qutb: “In Islam, Abraham (peace be upon him) is seen as a pure Hanif, the model of one who submits wholly to God’s will, rejecting all except the One.”
References and Suggested Literature
- “Abraham: The Father of Three Faiths” by Francis Clark - Delve into the figure of Abraham across Judaic, Christian, and Islamic traditions.
- “Islam: A Very Short Introduction” by Malise Ruthven - Provides an excellent introduction to core Islamic beliefs, including the concept of Ḥanīf.
- “Moses and Abraham in Quranic Study” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr - A text focusing on the portrayal of Abraham and Moses within the Qur’an.
- “Monotheism and Idolatry” by John Hick - Examining how different religions address the relationship between monotheism and idolatry.
Thought-Provoking Farewell
May the understanding of Ḥanīf inspire a renewed perspective on pure faith and devotion. Just as Abraham aligned his being towards the Creator, may we continually strive for sincerity in our beliefs and actions.
Warm regards,
Amina Al-Fahad
Date: 2023-10-03
