Definition
ṢAḤĪFAH (صحيفة), plural ṣuḥuf (صحف), literally translates to “a small book or pamphlet.” In Islamic terms, it refers to scriptures, commonly the ancient divinely revealed texts that were given to early prophets such as Adam, Seth, Enoch, and Abraham. The term also appears in the Qurʾān, specifically in Surah 87:19, referring to the books of Abraham and Moses.
Etymology
The Arabic term “ṢAḤĪFAH” originates from the root word “ṣaḥafa” (صحف), which means to write or inscribe. The concept emphasizes the written nature of the divine revelations.
Background
The ṢAḤĪFAH mentioned in Islamic tradition are regarded as foundational scriptures that predate the Qurʾān and contribute to the continuum of divine revelation. Although detailed knowledge of their contents has largely been lost, they set a precedent for later revelations.
Qurʾānic References
In the Qurʾān, ṢAḤĪFAH (صحيفة) is seen in the context of historical scriptures:
- Surah Al-A’la (87:18-19): “This is truly written in the former scriptures (صحف), the scriptures (صحف) of Abraham and Moses.”
Cultural Perspectives
Similarities
- Judaism and Christianity: Like the ṢAḤĪFAH, Judaism and Christianity also have ancient scriptures, known as the Torah and the Bible. These texts, containing God’s laws and teachings, serve a similar foundational role in their respective religions.
- Accessory Scriptures: In the context of the Abrahamic tradition, additional writings such as the Dead Sea Scrolls in Judaism and the Apocryphal books in Christianity provide supplementary insights, akin to various ancient Islamic texts.
Differences
- Preservation: Unlike the Qurʾān, the exact contents of the ṢAḤĪFAH are not completely preserved, representing a historical and spiritual connection rather than a textual one.
- Role in Rituals: While the Qurʾān is central to daily prayers and rituals in Islam, references to ṢAḤĪFAH indicate a more foundational historical and ethical code, rather than an active liturgical element.
Synonyms
- Ancient Scriptures
- Divine Texts
Antonyms
- Secular Writings
- Profane Texts
Related Terms with Definitions
- Qurʾān (قرآن): The holy book of Islam, believed to be the eternal word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
- Tawrah (توراة): The Torah; the first section of the Hebrew Bible and Islamic tradition regards it as the original revelation given to Moses.
- Injīl (إنجيل): The Gospel; refers to the original teachings delivered to Jesus, believed to have been subject to alteration.
- Prophets (أنبياء نبي): Messengers chosen by Allah to deliver his divine guidance to humanity.
Exciting Facts
- Lost Scriptures: Much of the content of the ṢAḤĪFAH remains a mystery, adding to their aura and mystique within Islamic studies.
- Multiple Recipients: Unlike many scriptural texts given to a single prophet, the ṢAḤĪFAH were distributed among several early Biblical figures, indicating a shared and continual revelation.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Al-Jahiz: “The sacred precursors in the ṢAḤĪFAH are mirrors reflecting the divine light that would later shine in full through the Qurʾān.”
- Muhammad Asad: “The ṢAḤĪFAH pillars may be obscured in the sands of time, but their spiritual cement endures in the edifice of faith.”
References for Further Study
- Esposito, John L. The Oxford Dictionary of Islam.
- Nasr, Seyyed Hossein. The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary.
- Bukhari, Muhammad Ibn Ismail Al-. Sahih Bukhari.
- Sells, Michael. Approaching the Qurʾān: The Early Revelations.
Suggested Literature
- Fazlur Rahman, Major Themes of the Qur’an
- Guillaume, Alfred, Traditions of Islam: An Introduction to the Study of the Hadith Literature
- Armstrong, Karen, Islam: A Short History
- Gordon D. Newby, A Concise Encyclopedia of Islam
Quizzes
Farewell: May the light of understanding and inspired thought guide you in delving into the treasures of ancient wisdom and scriptural enlightenment.
- Tariq al-Naafi
