Unveiling ṢIFAH (صفة): Exploring Divine Attributes in Islam ☪️
Definition
Ṣifah (صفة): An Arabic term meaning “attribute” or “characteristic.” In Islamic theology, Ṣifah refers to the attributes of Allah (God). The term is frequently employed to denote the divine qualities of Allah as revealed in the Qurʾān and as one of His attributes. The plural form is Ṣifāt.
Etymology
The word “Ṣifah” originates from the Arabic root “ṣfʿ,” which signifies description, attribute, or characteristic. The word is deeply embedded in Islamic semantics, especially when delineating divine qualities or names.
Background
In Islamic theology, understanding the attributes of Allah is crucial as it helps devout Muslims, scholars, and theologists comprehend His essence, majesty, and perfection. The Qurʾān, viewed as the ultimate Ṣifah of Allah, is the epitome of His attribute of speech. Every word within the Qurʾān is considered a reflection of divine perfection and wisdom.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islamic views on divine attributes differ significantly from other religious philosophies:
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Islam and Christianity: While Christianity interprets divine attributes through the concept of the Trinity—God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Islam emphasizes the oneness and indivisibility of Allah, articulated through His multiple attributes.
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Islam and Hinduism: Hindu theology encompasses a diverse pantheon of gods with distinct attributes, unlike Islam, where all Ṣifāt consolidate into a singular deity, Allah. However, both practices see divine attributes as a means to encountering the divine essence.
Synonyms
- Characteristics: Features or qualities belonging to God.
- Attributes: Intrinsic qualities, especially divine ones.
- Properties: Aspects that characterize Allah’s existence and actions.
Antonyms
- Imperfections: Flaws or defects, which are inherently absent in the divine qualities of Allah.
- Human Attributes: Qualities relatable to human beings and not to the sinless nature of Allah.
Related Terms
- Asma’ul Husna: Refers to Allah’s Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names, each representing different Ṣifah.
- Tawhid: The oneness of God in Islam, encompassing all His attributes within a single entity.
- Ilah: Arab for god, indicative of general gods in contrast to Allah, the specific encompassing literal and symbolic attributes.
Exciting Facts
- Compatibility of Attributes: Islamic scholars emphasize that Allah’s attributes are intrinsic to His essence, independent and uncreated, highlighting the sheer magnitude of divine perfection.
- Complex Sifāt: Certain Ṣifāt highlight paradoxes, like Allah being beyond space and time, depicting a profound mystery in understanding His nature.
Quotations from Notable Writers
Jalaluddin Rumi: “Close both eyes to see Love with the Friday-eye, illumined by God’s Ṣifah, the veil lifted.”
References & Suggested Literature
- “Al-Ghazali’s Path to Sufism: His Deliverance from Error” by Al-Ghazali
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- “A History of Islamic Philosophy” by Majid Fakhry
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
May the exploration of Allah’s divine attributes, His Ṣifāt, inspire a deeper reverence and understanding among all seekers of truth.
Yusuf ibn Omar, October 2023
