🧠 Deep Dive into Hikmah: The 📖 Wisdom in Islam

Definition and Meaning

Hikmah (Arabic: حكمة) commonly translated as “wisdom,” represents a deep and profound understanding of divine and human knowledge in Islamic theology and philosophy.

Etymology and Background

The term “Hikmah” derives from the Arabic root ḥ-k-m (ح-ك-م), which implies judgment, governance, or wisdom. In classical Arabic, hikmah refers to sagacious and judicious conduct, often aligned with divine wisdom given by Allah through revelation.

Historical Facts and Dates

1. Qur’anic Reference:

   • The Quran is described as possessing hikmah. For instance, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269) asserts, “He grants wisdom to whom He pleases.”

2. Philosophical Contributions:

   • Ibn Sina (Avicenna, d.1037): Classified hikmah into major branches of knowledge, including medicine, philosophy, and ethics.
   • Shihab al-Din Suhrawardi (d. 1191): Founded the philosophical school Hikmat al-Ishraq (Illuminationism) which integrates spiritual wisdom and metaphysical insight.

3. Medieval Sufis:

   • Ibn Ata Allah (d. 1309): Known for his collection of aphorisms, the Hikam, which hold deep spiritual wisdom and guidance for Sufi practice.

Cultural Context

1. Islamic Jurisprudence:

   • Hikmah also plays a critical role in Islamic jurisprudence where it’s linked with legislative wisdom. The application of Sharia law (Islamic law) considers hikmah in its just and ethical application.

2. Differing Cultural Emphases:

   • In Persian and South Asian traditions, hikmah integrates with local philosophical and spiritual teachings, enriching cultural understandings.
   • In Turkic and Indonesian contexts, hikmah often interfaces with indigenous wisdom and practices, reflecting a syncretic approach.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: Insight, understanding, prudence, sagacity.
• Antonyms: Ignorance, folly, shortsightedness, imprudence.

Related Terms

1. Ilm (علم): Knowledge in general, often referring to a broader scope including scientific and religious learning.
2. Irfan (عرفان): Esoteric knowledge and mystical comprehension in Islamic tradition.
3. Falsafah (فلسفة): Philosophy in Islamic context, often dealing closely with hikmah.

Exciting Facts

• Wisdom Beyond Religiosity: Hikmah is not confined to religious contexts alone and often influences various fields like medicine and ethics, notably in historical Islamic Golden Age.
• Metaphysical School: The metaphysical aspects explored by Suhrawardi’s Hikmat al-Ishraq had a profound influence on later Persian philosophers like Mulla Sadra.

Quotations from Notable Writers

“Wisdom is the lost property of the believer; wherever he finds it, he is the most deserving of it.” – Prophet Muhammad (Hadith)

Suggest References and Literature

1. “The Wisdom of Ibn Sina” by Lenn E. Goodman – A comprehensive analysis of Avicenna’s contributions to philosophical wisdom.
2. “Hikmat al-Ishraq” by Shihab al-Din Suhrawardi – Essentials on the Illuminationist philosophy.
3. “The Hundred Steps: An Annotated Translation of Ibn Ata Allah’s Hikam” – Insights into Sufi aphorisms.

Farewell Thought: “The quest for hikmah is everlasting. In the embrace of wisdom, we find not just answers but the courage to question deeply. May your journey in search of ‘Hikmah’ be as enlightening as the wisdom it seeks.”

— Fahad Al-Hasani, October 2023