Comprehensive Definition
In Islamic esotericism, the practice of calling upon the names or attributes of God for establishing relationships or influencing them, specifically in the context of friendship and enmity, involves a subtle interplay of divine aspects, astrological elements, planetary influences, and the invocation of genii (jinn) and angels.
Etymology
The practice draws its roots from terms such as asma’ ul-husna (the beautiful names of God) and ilm-ul-adad (numerology). ‘Asma’ means “names,” ‘ul’ is the connective particle, and ‘husna’ means “beautiful” or “best.” ‘Ilm’ means “knowledge,” and ‘adad’ translates to “numbers.”
Background
Historically, Islamic exorcism involves seeking divine help using God’s names, a practice deeply rooted in Quranic exegesis and Sufism. It intertwines the sacred with the astrological, creating a sophisticated system to influence spiritual realities.
In the context provided from the Jawāhiru ’l-K͟hamsah, or The Five Jewels, one specific aspect involves determining the initials of an individual’s name according to the Arabic alphabet and cross-referencing these with specific zodiac signs, planets, and natural elements.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islamic traditions of exorcism are comparable in some ways to Christian practices involving saints and prayers, or Hindu rites invoking various deities for protection. Unlike Western horror-trope exorcisms, Islamic rituals emphasize balance, protection, and divine intervention through structured invocations.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Hijab: A spiritual veil warding off evil.
- Ruqyah: Spiritual healing using Quranic verses and prayers.
- Istikhara: Seeking divine guidance through prayer.
- ʿIlm al-Huruf: The science of letters, involving mystical numerology.
Antonyms
- Disbelief (Kufr)
- Polytheism (Shirk)
- Misguidance (Dhalalah)
Exciting Facts
- Numerological Calculation: Each letter in the Arabic alphabet has a numerical value, contributing to the balance of attributes and influencing relationships.
- Elements and Attributes: Islamic mysticism often uses the four classical elements—fire, water, earth, air—to bring about desired spiritual effects.
- Astrological Influence: The interplay of astrological signs and planets in spirituality and daily life echoes older systems like Vedic astrology and Western zodiac traditions.
Notable Quotations
“The glorious names protect the believer like fortresses, for in every name resides a key to the hidden wisdom and the manifest world.”
— Sufi Scholar Ibn Arabi
“In the effusion of divine names lies protection from whispered temptations, as clear water washes away impurities.”
— Hamza Yusuf, Contemporary Islamic Scholar
References & Suggested Literature
- Jawāhiru ’l-K͟hamsah (The Five Jewels) - An authoritative text on Islamic esoterica.
- Ibn Arabi - Futuhat al-Makkiyyah (/Meccan Openings/), a spiritual classic detailing the implications of divine presence and mysticism.
- Hamza Yusuf - Purification of the Heart, offering insights into personal spiritual practices in line with Islamic tradition.
- Gai Eaton - Remembering God, a modern reflection on classical Islamic teachings.
- The Quran - Primary source for divine names and their transformative power.
Quiz Section
Remember, the divine attributes in Islamic practices are not just mystical formulas; they are pathways to deeply connecting with the divine essence and invoking its protective and transformative presence in our lives. Continue to seek knowledge, and may each name of God you recite bring you closer to understanding and peace.
Published by: Zayd Hamidi
Date: 2023-10-07
“In the divine names lie the treasures of the universe. Seek them, and find your soul awakened anew to the beauty of creation.”
— Zayd Hamidi
