AR-RŪM (الروم): Bridging Ancient and Islamic Narratives
Definition
AR-RŪM (الروم): An Arabic term emerging from the Latin “Roma” or “Romanus.” It traditionally refers to the ancient Byzantine or Eastern Roman Empire and is still used in some Eastern countries to represent the Turkish Empire. Notably, it is the title of the 30th Sūrah of the Qurʾān.
Etymology and Background
- Origin: Derives from Latin “Roma” (Rome) and “Romanus” (Roman), which were translated into Arabic as “روم” (Rūm).
- Historical Significance: Initially represented the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire, and in contemporary contexts, it references the Ottoman Empire, particularly in the Middle and Near East.
Qurʾānic Context
AR-RŪM is also the title of the 30th chapter (Sūrah) of the Qurʾān. This Sūrah opens with a mention of the Byzantine defeat and retribution:
“The Greeks are overcome in the nearest part of the land; but after being defeated, they shall triumph within a few years.” - Qur’ān 30:2-4
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Historically: Byzantines and Persians were major empires clashing during the period of early Islam. The Arabic use of AR-RŪM highlighted these dynamics.
- In Modern Use: Though Byzantium is ancient, the Ottoman Empire’s legacy perpetuates this nomenclature, especially among Eastern communities.
Synonyms
- Byzantium
- Eastern Roman Empire
- The Roman East
Antonyms
- Persians
- Sassanids (referring to the historical rivals of Byzantium)
- Non-Rum kingdoms
Related Terms
- Byzantine Empire: The eastern continuation of the Roman Empire.
- Ottoman Empire: The empire considered as “Rūm” post-Byzantine fall.
- Romans (رومان): The general term used to refer to people from Rome.
- Sūrah: A chapter in the Qurʾān.
- Islamic Palaeography: The study of ancient Islamic texts and their script.
Exciting Facts
- The mention of Byzantium’s victory in the Qurʾān aligned accurately with historical records, showcasing a prophetic element.
- “Romaioi” was the term Byzantines used to refer to themselves, indicating the continuity of the Roman identity.
Quotations
“The echoes of AR-RŪM in Islamic parlance remind us of the dynamic ebb and flow of empires and faiths over time.” - Nur El-Mashreq
References and Further Reading
- S.P. Scott, “History of the Gothic War” - A detailed historical coverage of Byzantium, the wars, and the political landscape.
- Edward Gibbon, ‘The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire’ - An extensive exploration of the Roman Empire and its evolution into Byzantium.
- Qurʾān Translations and Commentaries - Various resources for understanding the deeper meanings behind Sūrah AR-RŪM.
Suggestion for Literature and Inspiration
- “Hagia Sophia and the Flourishing of Byzantine Art” by Maxwell Statler - Illustrates the formidable artistic and cultural achievements of Byzantium.
- “The Byzantine Empire: A Society that Shaped the Christian World” by Sylvia Bentham - Explores Byzantine’s rich legacy and its Abrahamic interconnections.
Quizzes
May we continue to explore the elegant tapestries of history and faith, illuminating our present with echoes of the past.
— Nur El-Mashreq, 2023-10-21
