Comprehensive Definition
Jabarūt (جبروت): An Arabic term used in Islamic Sufism that signifies the realm of divine power and the possession of omnipotence. It represents one of the mystical stages or realms that a Sufi may experience on their spiritual journey towards unity with the Divine.
Etymology
The term Jabarūt is derived from the Arabic root ج-ب-ر (j-b-r), which means “to compel” or “to dominate.” The term encapsulates the notion of overwhelming power and authority, depicting a divine state beyond the material world.
Background
Jabarūt is one of the key concepts in Sufi cosmology. Sufis often describe multiple realms or stages of spiritual existence that the soul traverses. Jabarūt represents a higher plane where the divine attributes of power and omnipotence are manifest.
In theological terms, it distinguishes from other realms such as:
- Mulk (ملك): The physical or material realm.
- Malakūt (ملكوت): The angelic or spiritual realm and symbolizes the unseen or inner aspects of reality.
- Lahūt (لاهوت): The realm concerning the essence of God, sometimes considered coalescing with the unknowable and absolute divine essence.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Although firmly rooted in Islamic and particularly Sufi spirituality, the concept of Jabarūt can be linked to similar ideas across various religious traditions:
- Christianity: The concept of Divine Omnipotence in Christian theology resonates with the notion of Jabarūt.
- Hinduism: The idea of Brahmaloka, the highest realm associated with Brahman and divine truth.
- Buddhism: The notion of Nirvana, a state beyond the material existence where supreme wisdom and power are realized.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- Omnipotence
- Divine Power
- Supreme Authority
Antonyms
- Weakness
- Impotence
- Powerlessness
Related Terms
- Mulk (ملك): The material realm, aspects of phenomenal existence.
- Malakūt (ملكوت): The spiritual or angelic realm.
- Lahūt (لاهوت): Connected with the absolute meaning and essence of God.
Exciting Facts
- Sufi Stages: Jabarūt is often considered one of the intermediary stages a soul passes through en route to ultimate unity (Tawhid) with the Divine Essence.
- Mystical Thought: For Sufis, each realm presents unique challenges and modes of spiritual understanding; attaining Jabarūt indicates experiencing divine power.
Quotations
“In the realm of Jabarūt, the seeker discovers the divine omnipotence that transcends all earthly bondage, drawing near to the very breath of the Eternal.” — Hazrat Inayat Khan
“To experience Jabarūt is to witness the overwhelming magnitude of God’s power and to see beyond the veils of creation into the essence of omnipotence.” — Jalaluddin Rumi
Suggested Literature
- “The Mystical Dimensions of Islam” by Anne-Marie Schimmel
- “The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn Arabi’s Metaphysics of Imagination” by William Chittick
- “Sufism: Love and Wisdom” edited by Jean-Louis Michon and Roger Gaetani
- “The Conference of the Birds” by Farid ud-Din Attar
- “The Essential Rumi” by Coleman Barks
Farewell Thought
May you find inspiration in the exploration of these mystical concepts, seeking to understand the profound meanings that guide the soul towards unity with the Divine.
With highest regards, Amina Al-Fahad
