MUʿJIZAH (معجزة)
Definition and Etymology
Muʿjizah (معجزة), derived from the Arabic root ʿ-j-z, means “miracle,” with connotations of something that renders opponents “incapable” or proposes an undeniable challenge. In Islamic thought, a muʿjizah is a divine miracle, an extraordinary and supernatural event occurring due to Allah’s intervention, often performed by Prophets to demonstrate their legitimate connection to the divine.
Background
The concept of muʿjizah is essential in Islamic theology. Miracles confirm Prophetic legitimacy and are seen as signs (āyāt) of Allah’s power and message. Notable examples include Prophet Moses’ splitting of the sea and Prophet Muhammad’s receipt of the Qur’an, considered an ongoing miracle due to its unmatched eloquence, profundity, and guidance.
Notable Miracles in Islamic Tradition
- The Qur’an: The primary and everlasting miracle of Islam, revealed to Prophet Muhammad, is believed to be inimitable in beauty, profundity, and message.
- Prophet Moses: Splitting the Red Sea, turning his staff into a serpent, and the plagues sent to the Egyptians are prime demonstrations of divine power.
- Prophet Jesus: Known in Islam as Isa, he performed numerous miracles including healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, and raising the dead, all by Allah’s will.
- Prophet Solomon: Bestowed with the ability to communicate with animals and control jinn (supernatural beings).
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islam shares the belief in miracles with other Abrahamic faiths like Christianity and Judaism. However, the interpretation, significance, and attributes of these miracles may differ. For instance, while Christianity emphasizes Jesus’ divine nature partly through his miracles, Islam views these acts as manifestations of Allah’s power through a human Prophet, Isa (Jesus).
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms: Divine acts, miraculous signs, wonders (karamat), extraordinary phenomena. Antonyms: Natural events, normal phenomena, everyday occurrences.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Karāmāt (كرامات): Miracles performed by saints or pious individuals other than the Prophets.
- Āyāt (آيات): Signs, often referring to the verses of the Qur’an, but also used to indicate God’s signs in the universe.
- Nubuwwah (نبوة): Prophethood, denoting those chosen by Allah to convey His message.
Exciting Facts
- Inimitability of the Qur’an: Known as ‘Iʿjaz al-Qur’an,’ this doctrine holds that the Qur’an’s literary and rhetorical qualities are unmatched, challenging anyone to produce its like.
- Multitude of Prophets: Islamic tradition speaks of 124,000 Prophets, though not all are mentioned by name in the Qur’an.
- Synchronicity of Events: It’s often highlighted that certain miracles coincide with significant events, reinforcing the message of divine intervention and timing.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “The Qur’an is the everlasting miracle of Islam. It encompasses wisdom, law, and guidance for all of humanity, timeless in its instruction and beauty.” — Ibn Kathir
- “Each miracle (muʿjizah) served as a beacon of truth, proving the divine mission of the Prophets and guiding souls to the path of righteousness.” — Fethullah Gülen
Recommended Literature and Sources for Further Studies
- “The Inimitability of the Qur’an” by Muhammad Abd al-Azeem az-Zurqani
- “Al-Milal wa al-Nihal” by Al-Shahrastani
- “Miracles and the Miraculous in Medieval Fiction” by Carolina López-Ruiz
- “Prophethood and the Views of Contemporary Islamic Thinkers” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Inspirational exploration into the world of Muʿjizah encourages profound reflection on the divine powers and spiritual dimensions embraced within Islamic theology. 🌟 With curiosity and devotion, may your journey in the realm of sacred wonders be enlightened and fulfilling.
Farewell with wisdom, dear reader.
— Ibrahim Malik, October 12, 2023
