Definition
Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤ (اللوح المحفوظ), literally the “Preserved Tablet,” represents a divine record in Islamic theology where all of God’s decrees are written. This concept underscores the omnipotence and omniscience of Allah in Islam. According to various Ḥadīth, it denotes the ideal repository where the fate and actions of all creations are inscribed.
Etymology
The term Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤ is Arabic:
- Al-Lauḥ (اللوح): Refers to “tablet.”
- Maḥfūz̤ (المحفوظ): Means “guarded” or “preserved.”
Thus, the term conveys a sense of sacred security and eternal preservation.
Background
In the Qurʾān, this concept is alluded to in:
- Sūrah lxxxv. 21, 22: “It is a glorious Qurʾān written on the preserved tablet.”
- The plural “alwāḥ” occurs in Sūrah vii. 142, referring to the tablets of law given to Moses.
According to Islamic tradition, Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤ contains the divine blueprint of the history of the universe, life, and everything ordained by Allah. It illustrates the depth of Allah’s knowledge encompassing past, present, and future.
Cultural Differences & Similarities
Similarities:
- Preserved Knowledge: Many religions speak of divine records that document the deeds of individuals (e.g., the Book of Life in Christianity and Judaism).
- Divine Omniscience: The concept echoes the theme of divine omniscience found globally in various religious traditions.
Differences:
- Islamic Uniqueness: In Islam, Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤ is regarded as a singular, immaculate entity directly linked to Allah’s perfect knowledge and wisdom.
Synonyms
- The Guarded Tablet
- The Eternal Record
- The Divine Ledger
Antonyms
- Impermanent Record
- Mutable Manuscript
Related Terms
- Qurʾān (القرآن): The holy book of Islam, believed to be a revelation from Allah conveyed by the Prophet Muhammad.
- Qadr (قدر): Fate or divine decree in Islam.
- ʿUmūr (أمور): Affairs or matters as preordained in the divine context.
Definitions of Related Terms
- Qurʾān: The central religious text of Islam, considered as the literal word of Allah.
- Qadr: Divine predestination, signifying the concept of fate in Islam.
- ʿUmūr: Refers to matters or affairs, often discussed within divine or religious dimensions.
Exciting Facts
- Al-Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤’s Role: Often considered metaphysical, it emphasizes that nothing happens except by Allah’s will and knowledge.
- Exclusive Reference: The Quran’s mention of it demonstrates its importance, making it a pivotal aspect of Islamic eschatology and theology.
Quotations
“In the depth of the preserved tablet lies the destiny of all realised, written with the ink of divine script.” — Ibn Taymiyyah
Suggested Literature & Further Studies
- “A Theological Study of the Preserved Tablet” by Yusuf Al-Qaradawi
- “Divine Decree and Human Action in Islam” by William C. Chittick
- “The Unseen World in Islam” by Anabel Inge
- “Qurʾānic Inspirations” by Dr. Mufti Menk
Quizzes 🌟
Farewell
May this exploration of the Preserved Tablet inspire you to dive deeper into the vast ocean of Islamic knowledge, seeking wisdom and understanding in every verse and revelation, illuminating the path of learning with the light of divine insight.
Ahmed Suleiman 2023-10-09
