Definition and Meaning of Huwiyyah
Comprehensive Definition
Huwiyyah (هُوِيَّة) in Arabic denotes the concepts of “identity” or “essence” and literally can mean “selfhood” or “it-ness.” In modern Arabic, it refers generally to identity, but in classical Islamic philosophy and mysticism, it specifies a nuanced philosophical term. Huwiyyah highlights a being’s inherent capacity to subsist autonomously, distancing itself from merely its quiddity or “whatness” (mahiyyah) to focus on its essential existential presence.
In mystical traditions, especially Sufism, Huwiyyah refers to the essence of the Divine Being, contrasting with the individual ego denoted by aniyyah or “I-ness.” It signals the profound endeavor of a mystic to dissolve personal ego and identity in the being and presence of the Divine.
Etymology and Background
The term “Huwiyyah” roots itself in the Arabic pronoun “هو” (“huwa”), meaning “he” or “it.” This pronoun is often used to signify the Essence or Being of God in Sufi traditions, thus inheriting an enigmatic spiritual significance.
Historical Facts and Dates
- Classical Islamic Philosophy: Prominent thinkers such as Avicenna (Ibn Sina) used the term in discussions about metaphysics and the nature of being.
- Sufism: Figures like Ibn Arabi expanded on the term, exploring its mystical dimensions. Ibn Arabi used Huwiyyah to discuss the profound process where human individuality seeks to merge with the Divine essence.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Different Islamic philosophical and mystic traditions interpret Huwiyyah uniquely but share the underlying theme of exploring the nature of identity and existence.
- In Persian Sufism: Often delved deeply into exploring the nature of divine attributes.
- In South Asian Commentary: Discussed with an emphasis on merging individual consciousness with the universal.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: وجود (Wujūd - Existence), ذات (Dhat - Essence), حقيقة (Haqiqa - Reality)
- Antonyms: ماهِيَّة (Mahiyyah - Quiddity), أنا (Ana - I or Ego)
Related Terms
- Aniyyah (أنانية): Refers to “I-ness” or ego, often illustrated in contrast to Huwiyyah.
- Wujūd (وجود): Meaning “existence,” closely associated with discussions of Huwiyyah in metaphysics.
Exciting Facts
- Sufi Poetry: Mystics like Rumi and Hafiz often explored these themes in poetic narratives, illustrating the journey from aniyyah to Huwiyyah.
- Philosophical Dialogues: Medieval Islamic scholars would engage in canonical debates around these terms, impacting later philosophical traditions, including Western existentialism.
Quotations
“When you think that you know the ultimate essence of each and everything, seek out the Divine identity behind that essence; that is Huwiyyah.” — Ibn Arabi
“Piercing through the veils of our own identity, we meet the eternal Huwiyyah, where self dissolves into the endless ocean of Divine Being.” — Jalaluddin Rumi
References and Suggested Literature
- Books: “The Self-Disclosure of God” by William Chittick, which discusses Ibn Arabi’s use of Huwiyyah.
- Articles: “The Concept of Being in Islamic Philosophy” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
- Further Studies: Engage with primary texts by Islamic philosophers, particularly the metaphysical treatises of Avicenna and the mystical writings of Ibn Arabi.
Quizzes to Test Your Understanding
Thank you for exploring the fascinating concept of Huwiyyah with us. May this journey into Islamic thought inspire your philosophical inquiry and spiritual exploration.
“Philosophy is the highest music.” — Hasr ibn Al-Qays
Author: Hasan al-Turabi Publishing Date: 2023-10-03
