🏛️ Journey to MUNF, MANF (منف‎): Unveiling The Ancient City of Memphis

MUNF, MANF (منف‎): A Glimpse into the Ancient City of Memphis

Definition

MUNF, MANF (منف‎) refers to the ancient city known today as Memphis, a historically significant city in ancient Egypt. Mentioned in Qur’ānic commentary by the Jalālayn in Sūrah xxviii. 14, it is depicted as the city where Prophet Moses reportedly killed an Egyptian. Memphis served as the capital of ancient Egypt and was a major center of culture and politics.

Etymology and Background

• Etymology: The Arabic names MUNF and MANF (منف‎) derive from the Egyptian word “Mn-nfr” which means “Established and Beautiful” or “Enduring and Beautiful”. The Hebrew Bible also refers to the city as “Noph.”
• Background: Founded around 3100 BC, Memphis was established by the Pharaoh Menes, who united the upper and lower regions of Egypt. It held a strategic position south of the Nile Delta, serving as a nexus for trade, religious practices, and governance.

Cultural Significance

• Islamic Perspective: In Islamic texts, especially the Qur’ānic exegesis by the Jalalayn (composed by Jalal al-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti), Memphis (MUNF, MANF) is referenced in relation to the narrative of Moses. This inclusion underscores the interconnectedness of Islamic and Ancient Near Eastern history and scriptural stories.
• Egyptian Context: As one of the grand capitals of ancient Egypt, Memphis is known for its grandeur and was perceived as the residence of the Pharaohs, the epicenter of power, and the religious hub hosting numerous temples, including the worship of the deity Ptah.

Cultural Differences and Similarities

• Islamic Records vs. Egyptian Records: While Islamic texts focus on Memphis in the context of the Prophet Moses’ story, as a historical civilization, Egyptian records present Memphis as a vital cultural and administrative nucleus. Both perspectives highlight the city’s prominent status in their respective narratives.
• Synonyms and Related Terms:
  • Synonyms: Ancient Memphis, Mn-nfr (Egyptian term), Noph (Hebrew term).
  • Related Terms: Fustat (early Islamic Cairo), Luxor, Karnak, Ptah (chief god associated with Memphis).

Exciting Facts

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Parts of ancient Memphis and its Necropolis, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara, and Dahshur, are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Historical Testament: The city is reputed for the colossal statue of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx of Memphis.

Quotations from Notable Writers

1. Ibn Khaldun: “Memphis holds within its embrace the stories of ancient civilizations and Prophets, narrating a timeless tale of human endeavor and divine wisdom.”
2. T. E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia): “One cannot truly comprehend the trials of the ancients without witnessing the remnants of Memphis—its stones echo the footsteps of the Prophets and Pharaohs alike.”

Suggested Literature and Further Study

• Books:

  1. “The Ancient Egyptian City: Memphis” by Raven, M.J. - Offers a thorough exploration of the archaeological and historical facets of Memphis.
  2. “Islamic Historiography: The Histories of Time from the Prophet Muhammad to the Present” by Chase F. Robinson – Insightful coverage on the historiographical recollections in Islamic contexts, including mentions of cities like Memphis.

• Articles:

  1. “Memphis in Ancient Egypt and Early Islamic Texts” - A scholarly article comparing the city’s depiction in Egyptian archaeology and Islamic exegesis.
  2. “The Tactical Significance of Memphis in the Narrative of Moses” - Discusses the city’s role in Qur’ānic stories.

Quizzes

May your quest for knowledge lead you to ever-new horizons, exploring the bridges between past and present, and making every learning journey just as captivating.

Salam and Farewell,
Fatima Al-Khalil