Overview of ḤĀDIS̤ (حادث)
ḤĀDIS̤ (حادث) represents the concept of newness or something happening for the first time within the framework of Islamic theology. It is juxtaposed with qadīm (قدیم), denoting that which is ancient or eternal, characteristics attributed exclusively to God.
Etymology
The term ḤĀDIS̤ (حادث) is derived from the Arabic root ḥ-d-s̤ which carries the meanings of happening, event, or occurrence. In Islamic texts, it indicates things within the confines of time and thus subject to change.
Theological Background
In Islamic theology, the division between ḥādith (حادث) and qadīm (قدیم) is foundational to understanding the nature of creation versus the Creator. While the world and all within it are considered ḥādith, being created and temporal, God is acknowledged as qadīm, eternal and uncreated.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Across various Muslim cultures, these concepts reinforce a common theological understanding but may be approached differently through cultural lenses. For example:
- In Persian poetry, ḥādith invokes the brevity and temporariness of life contrasted with divine permanence.
- In Sufi mysticism, the recognition of one’s temporality (ḥādith) versus the pursuit of eternal divine unity reflects inner spiritual journeys.
Synonyms & Antonyms
- Synonyms: New, Fresh, Event, Occurrence
- Antonyms: Qadīm (Eternal), Timeless, Immortal
Related Terms
- Qadīm (قدیم): Refers to what is ancient, without beginning, or eternal.
- Khalq (خلق): Creation; the act of bringing something into existence.
- Baṭinī (باطنی): Inward, esoteric, often contrasting with outward, apparent realities.
Exciting Facts
- Philosophical Debates: The terms ḥādith and qadīm have been central to philosophical and theological debates, particularly in the rationalist Mu’tazilite and the traditionalist views within Islamic thought.
- Historical Texts: Classical scholars like al-Ghazālī and Ibn Sina have profoundly explored the implications of these terms in their works on metaphysics.
Quotations
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“Whenever something new (ḥādith) emerges, it is but a reflection of God’s infinite creativity.” -Ibn Arabi
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“The eternal tomorrow traverses continents and ages, but amidst the flux of ḥādith, it is the vision of qadīm that anchors the striving soul.” - Fazlur Rahman
Recommended Literature
- “The Incoherence of the Philosophers” by Al-Ghazālī
- “Classical Islamic Theology: The Ashʻarites” by R. M. Frank
- “Meccan Revelations” by Ibn Arabi
- “Philosophy in the Islamic World” edited by Ulrich Rudolph, used as a comprehensive source for deeper inquiries into temporal and eternal debates.
Fatima Hamdani
“Let the exploration of ḤĀDIS̤ urge you to contemplate the nature of new beginnings within the grandeur of eternity.”
[[Further Reading and Insights Await]]
