👩🏫The Enigmatic Prophetesses: Exploring Key Female Figures in Islam
Comprehensive Definition
The term “prophetess” in Islam refers to women who have received divine revelations or messages from God. Traditionally, Islam recognizes three key prophetesses: Sarah, mother of Moses, and Mary, daughter of ʿImrān. These women received pivotal divine messages that impacted the course of Islamic and Abrahamic traditions.
Etymology
- Sarah (سارة): Derived from Hebrew origin meaning “princess” or “lady.”
- Mother of Moses: Often referred to as Yokheved in Jewish tradition and Muḥammad’s Mother in some Islamic texts.
- Mary (مَرْيَم, Maryam): An Aramaic Hebrew name meaning “bitter” or “wished for child.”
Background
Sarah:
Divine Revelation: An angel announced to her the birth of Isaac. Significance: Sarah is a prophetic figure also revered in Judaism and Christianity, marked by her faith and her pivotal role as the mother of Isaac.
Mother of Moses:
Divine Revelation: Received guidance on how to save her son, Moses, which involved placing him in a basket in the Nile River. Significance: Her strong faith and actions ensured the survival of Moses, who later became a significant prophet.
Mary, Daughter of ʿImrān:
Divine Revelation: Received the birth announcement of Jesus through an angel. Significance: Highly revered in Islam, Mary (referred to as Maryam) is an exemplar of purity and unwavering faith.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In Islamic culture, women receiving divine messages is recognized but less emphasized compared to men. While Judaism and Christianity also honor these women, their roles and the nature of their prophecies vary across the three traditions. Notably, Mary holds a unique position as mother of Jesus in both Christianity and Islam.
Synonyms
- Prophetess: Female Prophet
- Divine Messenger: Chosen Woman
Antonyms
- Non-believer
- Secular figure
Related Terms with Definitions
- Nabīyah (نَبِيَّة): Arabic term often translated as “female prophet.”
- Revelation (وحي, Waḥy): Divine communication or guidance imparted to prophets and prophetesses.
Exciting Facts
- The recognition of these women as prophetesses underlies the depth and respect Islam holds for women of faith.
- Mary is the only woman mentioned by name in the Qurʾān, where she has an entire surah (chapter) named after her.
- Sarah’s story underscores the notion of God’s miracles in fulfilling prophecies and promises.
Quotations
- Sarah: “Now the LORD had told Abraham, ‘I will bless her, and moreover, I will give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she will become nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.’” (Genesis 17:16)
- Mary, daughter of ʿImrān: “And [mention] when the angels said, ‘O Mary, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified you and chosen you above the women of the worlds.’” (Qurʾān 3:42)
Suggested Literature
- “Women in the Qur’an, Traditions, and Interpretation” by Barbara Freyer Stowasser.
- “The Veil and the Male Elite: A Feminist Interpretation of Women’s Rights in Islam” by Fatima Mernissi.
- “Mary in the Qur’an: A Literary Reading” by Waleed Arbeesh.
Inspirational Farewell
Explore these timeless stories and understand the profound roles women have played in shaping faith and history, offering inspiration and guidance for future generations.
