Nur Muhammadi - The Muhammadan Light
Definition and Meaning
Nur Muhammadi (نور محمدي) - also called al-nur al-muhammadi (النور المحمدي), refers to the pre-cosmic soul of Muhammad in Sufi and Shii metaphysics. It represents the emanation of divine consciousness, the primordial light through which all creation began, and is associated with the al-insan al-kamil (the Perfect Man) and haqiqah muhammadiyyah (the Muhammadan reality or truth).
Etymology and Background
The term Nur Muhammadi translates literally to “The Muhammadan Light”. The Arabic root “نور” (nūr) means light, while “محمد” (Muḥammad) refers to the Prophet Muhammad. In this context, Nur Muhammadi denotes a divine, pre-existent light relevant to it.
Historical Facts
The concept of Nur Muhammadi appears in the writings of early Sufi mystics and thinkers such as:
- Sahl al-Tustari (circa 818-896 CE)
- Hakim al-Tirmidhi (circa 820–869 CE)
The idea was further elaborated by the renowned mystic Ibn al-Arabi (1165-1240 CE) and his followers. It plays a critical role in both Sufi belief systems and the Shii conceptualization of walayah (sainthood).
Cultural Context
Sufis and many Shiite Muslims view the concept of Nur Muhammadi as the first act of creation by God, symbolizing the divine illumination that provides enlightenment to all prophets and saints. Each prophet before Muhammad is thought to have derived their prophetic illumination from this primordial light.
Cultural Differences:
- Sufi Tradition: Focuses on the mystical aspects and deep personal enlightenment experiences.
- Shii Tradition: Embeds Nur Muhammadi in theological and hierarchical structures related to Imams and the concept of divine leadership.
Synonyms
- Al-Nur al-Muhammadi (النور المحمدي)
Related Terms
- Al-Insan al-Kamil (الإنسان الكامل) - The Perfect Man
- Haqiqah Muhammadiyyah (حقيقة محمدية) - Muhammadan Reality
- Walayah (ولاية) - Sainthood or Guardianship
- Emanation Theory - Conceptual framework in Neoplatonism and metaphysics
Exciting Facts
- The Nur Muhammadi is considered the first creation of God.
- All other lights, including that of all prophets, are reflections of the Nur Muhammadi.
- This concept serves as a cornerstone in understanding the philosophy of Light and Reality in Islam.
Quotations
Ibn al-Arabi: “The light of Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the whole of the divine truths. Through him, every illumination was made manifest.”
Suggested Literature
- “The Bezels of Wisdom” by Ibn al-Arabi
- “The Concept of Nur Muhammad in Sufism” by Syed Ali Ashraf
- “Divine Reality: A Sufistic Reading of Muhammadan Light” by Shams al-Jabbar.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
“Seek the light within, as the Nur Muhammadi illuminates the soul and guides the seeker to the eternal truth and divine consciousness.” – Harun al-Rashid
Harun al-Rashid Published on October 3, 2023
