What is Millah (ملة)? 🌟
Comprehensive Definition
Millah (ملة) is an Arabic term frequently used in the Qurʾān, appearing fifteen times. It predominantly refers to the established path or religion, particularly emphasizing the faithful tradition as practiced by Prophet Abraham and other important religious predecessors. Millah denotes a deeper connotation of communal faith, bound by loyalty to a shared divine covenant.
Etymology and Background
The origin of Millah has been a subject of scholarly debate. Some Arabic philologists suggest it derives from the root “Malla” (ملا), meaning “fire” or “hot ashes,” implying a profound transformative impression akin to that of fire on anything it touches. Orientalists like Dr. Sprenger and Emanuel Deutsch propose that Millah might be of foreign derivation, aligning with the Hebrew Memra and Logos, representing the divine word or expression used in Judaic and early Christian traditions.
Cultural Context and Differences
Millah is used differently in various religious contexts within the Qurʾān:
- For the Religion of Abraham: Emphasizing pure monotheism and submission to the will of Allah (Sūrahs ii. 124, 129; iii. 89; iv. 124; vi. 162; xii. 38; xvi. 124; xxii. 77)
- For Former Prophets: Stressing the continuity of divine message and guidance (Sūrahs xiv. 16; xxxviii. 6)
- For the Seven Sleepers: Reflecting unity even among diversity (Sūrah xviii. 19)
- For Idolatrous Religions: Highlighting deviation from true faith (Sūrahs xii. 37; vii. 86, 87)
- For Jewish and Christian Religions: Acknowledging the common Abrahamic root (Sūrah ii. 114)
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Dīn (دين): Generally represents religion as one’s duty towards God.
- Maẕhab (مذهب): Denotes school of thought or doctrine in Islamic jurisprudence.
Antonyms:
- Kufr (كفر): Refers to disbelief or ingratitude towards God.
- Shirk (شرك): The sin of associating partners with Allah.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Dīn (دين): Religion or faith from a personal and divine duty perspective.
- Ṣirāṭ (صراط): The straight path, often referred to in Sūrat Al-Fātiḥah.
- Tawḥīd (توحيد): The oneness of Allah in Islamic theology.
Fascinating Facts 🌟
- Inclusive Usage: Despite differing contexts, Millah consistently calls attention to communal loyalty towards an established divine covenant.
- Universal Faith: It underscores a fundamentally monotheistic belief extending back to Abraham, intertwining Judaic, Christian, and Islamic monotheisms.
- Literary Connections: Scholars elaborate on its connection to terms like Memra in Judaic traditions, deepening its theological richness.
Quotations 📜
- “Millah guides one on the path wrought by Abraham’s unwavering faith, an epitome of surrender to the singular Divine will.” — Dr. Sprenger
- “Millah is the immortal hearth of unity within the diverse universe of faiths.” — Emanuel Deutsch
Suggested Literature 🌱
- “The Life and Teachings of Mohammad” by Dr. Sprenger
- “Islam: Its History, Teaching, and Practice” by William Montgomery Watt
- “Al-Ghazali’s Path to Sufism: His Deliverance from Error” by Al-Ghazali
- “No God but One: Allah or Jesus?” by Nabeel Qureshi for interfaith understanding
Inspirational Farewell 🌙
Embark on a deeper exploration of your faith to uncover the profound truths that bind our shared spiritual heritage. Seek knowledge, cultivate understanding, and let the legacy of Millah illuminate your path.
Farewell, seeker of wisdom! Let the light of knowledge guide your faith and understanding. 🌟
Published by: Fatimah Al-Mahdi, October 15, 2023.
