✨ The Mystical Journey of BURĀQ (براق) 🌠: A Mythical Steed in Islamic Tradition
Definition
Burāq (براق) – Literally translated as “the bright one,” Burāq is a mythological steed in Islamic tradition upon which the Prophet Muhammad is said to have ridden during his Mi`raj, the Night Journey to heaven. It is described as a white animal, larger than a donkey but smaller than a mule, equipped with wings that enabled miraculous travel.
Etymology and Background
Etymology: The term Burāq (براق) is derived from the Arabic root “B-R-Q,” which means “to shine” or “to flash,” like lightning. This symbolism of brightness reflects the divine nature of the steed and its role in an event deeply rooted in divine interaction.
Background: According to Islamic tradition, the Burāq carried the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem in a single night, where Muhammad then ascended through the seven heavens, meeting various prophets and ultimately receiving divine instructions. This journey, referred to as the Mi`raj, holds profound theological and spiritual significance, symbolizing the deep connection between the earthly and the divine.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Burāq has parallels in other mythologies and religious traditions.
- Assyrian Gryphon: Burāq shares similarities with the griffin, a mythological creature depicted with wings, signifying a guardian role and representing divine transportation.
- Greek Pegasus: Another comparably mystical equine figure is Pegasus, a winged horse in Greek mythology associated with heroic journeys and symbols of divine inspiration.
Similarities:
- All these creatures serve as intermediaries between the mortal realm and the divine.
- They often are described as creatures of great beauty and are depicted as white, symbolizing purity.
Differences:
- Burāq is specifically linked to a significant historical and spiritual journey unique to Islamic tradition, while Pegasus and the Gryphon have broader mythological narratives without specific ties to any prophetic journey.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
Synonyms:
- Mythical Steed
- Celestial Mount
- Heavenly Horse
Antonyms:
- Ordinary Beast of Burden
- Terrestrial Animal
Related Terms:
- Mi`raj (المعراج): Ascent of the Prophet Muhammad through the heavens.
- Isra (الإسراء): The night journey preceding the Mi`raj, covering travel from Mecca to Jerusalem.
- Prophetic Traditions: Narratives and sayings related to the Prophet Muhammad.
Fascinating Facts
- Unique Vision: Burāq is always mentioned as part of sanctified and mystical visions, never found within the context of ordinary animal descriptions.
- Speed of Light: The name itself alludes to light, capturing the immense speed at which the journey was undertaken.
- Philosophical Symbol: Burāq also serves as a philosophical and symbolic bridge, conjoining the temporal world of humans with the sanctified divine.
Quotations
- Rumi: “In his journey on the magnificent Burāq, Muhammad spoke to each level of the cosmos, illuminating our path with celestial wisdom.”
- Ibn Kathir: “The Burāq was a creature of wondrous beauty and function, bridging the finite world to the infinite divine, a mount full of divine light.”
Suggested Literature
- “The Night Journey and Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad” by Maher Jarrar – Analyzes various accounts and theological perspectives on the Mi`raj.
- “Legends of the Prophets” by Ibn Kathir – Presents traditional stories involving prophets, including the journey on the Burāq.
- “Islamic Angelsology and Demonology” by Álvaro Emilio Sur – Explores Islamic unique theological entities including mythological creatures like Burāq.
Quiz
May you always traverse the pathways of knowledge with the same spirit that Burāq traversed the heavens.
— Amina Al-Fahad, 2023
