Definition
ʿIṢMAH (عصمة) refers to the state of being protected from sin and error, commonly attributed to prophets in Islamic theology. The term implies that prophets, including Prophet Muhammad, were divinely safeguarded from committing sinful acts, thereby maintaining their moral and spiritual rectitude to serve as perfect guides for humanity.
Etymology
The term ʿIṢMAH is derived from the Arabic root ʿ-ṣ-m (ع-ص-م), which conveys meanings related to protection, preservation, and abstaining from something. Literally, ʿIṣmah translates to “keeping back” and in the context of theology, it denotes the divine preservation from sin and error.
Background
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Islamic Theology: Within Islamic thought, prophets are considered to be safeguarded from making moral mistakes or deliberate sins in order to convey God’s message truthfully. This doctrine is seen as necessary to maintain the credibility and trustworthiness of divine guidance given through the prophets.
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Cultural Context: While Islamic sects (Sunni and Shia) may vary in the specifics of when and to what extent the prophets are protected by ʿIṣmah, the consensus remains that prophets were immune to grave sins (kabira) to ensure their roles as perfect exemplars for the believers.
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Associated Beliefs: In some Islamic perspectives, particularly certain Shia views, infallibility can extend beyond prophets to include specific figures like imams, emphasizing the broader notion of divine guidance.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities
- Christianity: In some branches of Christianity, notably Roman Catholicism, the Pope is considered infallible when speaking ex cathedra on matters of faith and morals.
- Hinduism: Certain Hindu traditions uphold the concept of divine beings or avatars (like Krishna) who are inherently perfect and free from sins.
Differences
- Judaism: In Judaism, prophets are considered to be chosen by God and highly revered, but they are not necessarily seen to be free from sin or infallibility.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
- Infallibility: Being incapable of making mistakes or being wrong.
- Immunity: Being protected from potential consequences or harm.
Antonyms
- Fallibility: Capability of making mistakes or being wrong.
- Sinfulness: The state of committing sins or being morally flawed.
Related Terms and Definitions
- Naṣīḥah (نصيحة): Good advice or sincere counsel, which can also imply guidance aimed at protecting others from sin.
- Istighfar (استغفار): The act of seeking forgiveness from God, acknowledging human fallibility and sins.
Exciting Facts
- The concept of ʿIṣmah guards the actual credibility in Islamic theology that every divine message conveyed to humanity is pure, devoid of human error.
- Different Islamic traditions debate the extent of ʿIṣmah with regards to minor sins (saghira), nature of forgetfulness, and inadvertent errors.
Quotations
- ″Verily, We sent Messengers before you and appointed for them wives and children. And it was not for any Messenger to bring a sign except by Allah’s leave. For every matter, there is a Decree (from Allah).″ – Qur’an 13:38
References and Further Reading
- A.T. Welch (2009). (Ed.) Encyclopedia of Islam. Brill.
- Seyyed Hossein Nasr (1977). Ideals and Realities of Islam. ABC International Group.
- Wilfred Cantwell Smith (1991). The Meaning and End of Religion. Fortress Press.
Suggested Literature
- M. Haykal. The Life of Muhammad.
- M.A.S. Abdel Haleem. The Qur’an: A New Translation.
Quizzes
Inspirational Thought
As we explore the concept of ʿIṣmah, remember that the pursuit and admiration of purity and moral excellence inspire us to seek higher wisdom, strive for a noble character, and endeavor for a life aligned with transcendental values.
Noura Al-Hakim - “In every teaching and revelation lies an eternal guidance, a light illuminating the path toward our higher self.”
