Comprehensive Definition
AD-DURRATU ʾL-BAIẓĀʾ (الدرة البيضاء) - This term translates literally to “The Pearl of Light.” It is used in Sufi mysticism to denote the ʿāqlu ʾl-awwal, the first intelligence that God created and from which all animate and conscious existence stems. This concept is central to understanding the Sufi belief about the origins of the universe and the presence of divine light within it.
Etymology
AD-DURRATU - Derived from the Arabic word for “pearl,” indicating something precious and exquisitely luminous. ʾL-BAIẓĀʾ - Comes from the Arabic for “white,” symbolizing purity, light, and divine illumination.
Background
In Sufi mysticism, AD-DURRATU ʾL-BAIẓĀʾ represents the primal intellect, the divine spark created by God at the commencement of creation. The Ṣūfī belief outlines the emanation of all creation from this first intellect, aligning with the Neo-Platonic idea of emanation. This primal light or intelligence holds a significant place in the hierarchical structure of existence within Sufi cosmology, bridging the divine with the cosmos.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
While Sufi Islam emphasizes a mystical path to understanding divine truths and cosmic origins, other Islamic and non-Islamic philosophical traditions have their variations on the concept of a primal or first intelligence. For example:
- Islamic Philosophy: Philosophers such as Ibn Sina (Avicenna) also spoke of the First Intelligence arising from God, laying the ground for subsequent existences.
- Platonism and Neo-Platonism: Highlight similar ideas of a primordial source from which all forms and consciousness arise, termed as the One or the Nous.
Synonyms
- ʿĀqlu ʾL-Awwal (عقل الأول) - First Intelligence
- Al-Fayd al-Aqdas (الفَیض الأقدَس) - The Holy Emanation
- Nūr (نور) - Light, often used to describe divine illumination
Antonyms
Within the framework of Sufi cosmology, it’s challenging to find true antonyms as concepts generally exist in a unified divine context. However, abstract opposites might include:
- Ḥaḍrātu Nishasteh (حضرة النشتة): Non-existence or the absence of divine presence.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Nūr Muhammadī (نور محمدي) - The Muhammadan Light, considered another emanation of divine light closely associated with the Prophet Muhammad.
- ʿIrfan (عرفان) - Sufi knowledge or gnosis which enables understanding of such divine wisdom.
- Tajalli (تجلّي) - Manifestation or the process through which the divine light and attributes become evident in the cosmos.
Exciting Facts
- Concepts in Parallels: Similar ideas regarding a primal intelligence or divine light can be found in Gnostic and other esoteric traditions.
- Poetic Exploration: Rumi, one of the most famous Sufi poets, often wrote about light and knowledge flowing from divine love, metaphorically aligning with AD-DURRATU ʾL-BAIẓĀʾ.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The Pearl of Light is that which resides in the heart, illuminating the righteous path and revealing the truth of all existence.” - Ibn Arabi
References and Suggested Literature
- “The Sufi Path of Knowledge” by William C. Chittick: A comprehensive exploration into the works of Ibn al-Arabi.
- “Islamic Gnosis: The Gracious Quest for Certainty” by Henry Corbin: Discusses the metaphysical truths in Islamic esoteric thought.
- “Divine Flashes” by Fakhruddin Iraqi: Offers poetic insights into Sufi cosmology and revelations.
Quizzes with Explanations
Reflecting on the radiant essence of AD-DURRATU ʾL-BAIẓĀʾ reminds us of the innate light within each of us, leading us back to divine unity and truth.
Layla al-Boukhari
October 3, 2023
