📜 Unveiling Naskh: The Verses 📝 and Art of Abrogation and Calligraphy

Naskh: Abrogation and Calligraphy - Unraveling Dual Significance

Comprehensive Definition & Meaning

Naskh (نسخ) is an Arabic term with dual significant implications within Islamic traditions:

1. Abrogation (الأبالة): The theological concept wherein earlier Quranic verses or legal rulings within Sharia are superseded or repealed by later ones. This is rooted in the Quranic verse 2:106, indicating divine wisdom in progressive revelation.
2. Calligraphic Style (خط النسخ): One of the primary scripts used in Arabic calligraphy, renowned for its elegance, readability, and widespread usage in copying manuscripts and literature.

Etymology & Roots

The root of “Naskh” lies in the Arabic verb “نسخ” (nasakha), meaning “to copy” or “to abolish”. This etymological background reflects the dual usage of the term in both its theological and artistic contexts.

Historical & Theological Context

1. Abrogation:

• Scriptural Basis: The principle of abrogation is derived from the verse:
  • Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:106): “We do not abrogate a verse or cause it to be forgotten except that We bring forth one better than it or similar to it.”
• Practical Application: Early Islamic jurists and theologians have utilized the concept of abrogation to harmonize conflicting Quranic verses and Hadith.
• Historical Debates: Abrogation has been a subject of considerable discussion among scholars, regarding the extent and identification of abrogated verses.

2. Calligraphy:

• Origins: The Naskh script dates back to the 10th century, reaching prolific usage under the Abbasid Caliphate.
• Attributes: Known for its rounded and flowing style, legibility, and adaptability for print text, making it a preferred script for copying the Qur’an and other documents.
• Historical Usage: The Ottomans perfected this script and made it standard for administrative and cultural texts.

Cultural Perspectives

Abrogation:

• Cultural Diversity: Islamic scholars from different regions have approached the concept of abrogation with unique interpretations, reflecting the diverse legal traditions in the Muslim world.

Calligraphy:

• Pan-Islamic Appreciation: Despite regional variations, the aesthetic principles of Naskh calligraphy are admired across the Islamic world, from the Middle East to South Asia.

Synonyms and Related Terms

• Synonyms:

  • Revocation: The act of formally withdrawing something.
  • Repeal: Revoke or annul a law or congressional act.

• Related Terms:

  • Nasikh - مناح: The abrogating verse.
  • Mansūkh - منسوح: The abrogated verse.
  • Nasikh wa Mansūkh - ناسخ و منسوخ: The science of abrogation in Islamic jurisprudence.

Exciting Facts and Quotations

• Fact: The Naskh script was established by the famous calligrapher Ibn Muqla, setting the standard for its aesthetics.
• Quotation: “Naskh maintains the evolution of divine law, ensuring that revelation meets the needs of society across generations.” – Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah.

Suggested Literature & Resources

• Books:

  • “An Introduction to Qur’anic Studies: The Concept of Abrogation” by Ahmad von Denffer.
  • “Islamic Calligraphy” by Sheila Blair.
  • “Nasikh and Mansukh: A Contemporary Perspective” by Ziauddin Sardar.

• Articles:

  • “Abrogation in the Qur’an: Insights from Different Schools” by Yasir Qadhi.
  • “The Art of Naskh: Reflections on Arabic Calligraphy” by Martin Lings.

• Online Resources:

  • Oxford Islamic Studies Online.
  • Arab Calligraphy AR-based learning platforms.

Farewell: Dive deeper into the beauty and wisdom of Naskh, and remember that learning is a journey that transforms the soul as much as the mind.

Yours in the pursuit of knowledge,

Yusuf Ibn Khalid – October 2023.