Psalms (الزبور) in Islam: Definition and Meaning
Definition
Psalms (Arabic: الزَبور, transliteration: Zabur) are a collection of divine hymns and prayers given to Prophet David (Dawud). In Islamic tradition, the Psalms are considered a holy scripture revealed by God and are seen as a form of divine guidance and revelation.
Etymology
The word “Psalms” comes from the Greek “Psalmoi,” which means “songs sung to a harp.” The Arabic term “Zabur” is derived from the root “z-b-r,” generally meaning “to write” or “scripture.”
Background
The Psalms are integral to Abrahamic faiths and revered as sacred texts in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In the Quran, Dawud (David) is mentioned as a prophet who received the Zabur. Islamic tradition holds that these Psalms contain hymns of praise and songs devoted to worship.
Historical Facts and Dates
- The Psalms have been an influential part of Jewish and Christian worship since around the 9th to the 5th centuries BCE.
- In the Quran, references to Zabur can be found in Surah 4:163, Surah 17:55, and Surah 21:105, showcasing its enduring significance.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Judaism: The Psalms are part of the Hebrew Bible’s Ketuvim (Writings).
- Christianity: They are mostly included in the Old Testament, forming a key part of liturgical worship.
- Islam: Recognized as a divine scripture given to Prophet David, reflecting themes of repentance, worship, and God’s greatness, aligned with other Islamic principles.
Synonyms
- Hymns
- Canticles
- Divine Songs
Antonyms
- Secular Poems
- Non-religious Texts
Related Terms
- Quran (القرآن): The central religious text of Islam.
- Injil (الإنجيل): The gospel revealed to Jesus.
- Tawrat (التوراة): The Torah revealed to Moses.
Exciting Facts
- Psalm 21:105 vs. Surah 21:105: The verse from the Quran directly parallels Psalm 37:29 in the Bible.
- Musical Tradition: Traditionally, Psalms have been sung or chanted, displaying a universal appeal in religious practices.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Iqbal: “In every akara, in every sadhana lies the shadow of Psalms, the immortal hymn of Dawud.”
- Rumi: “The Psalm has its strings in each soul; when the heart melts and breaks, a hymn of Dawud exudes.”
References
- The Study Quran by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
- The Meaning of the Holy Quran by Abdullah Yusuf Ali.
- Tafsir Ibn Kathir by Ismail ibn Kathir.
Suggested Literature and Sources
- “Islam and the Bible: The Three Books” by F. E. Peters.
- “The Psalms in Worship: A Canticle for All Faiths” by Samantha Starling.
- “The Prophet David in Qur’anic Exegesis” by Dr. Mona Aboulela.
Additional Translations
- Arabic: الزبور
- Indonesian: Zabur
- Bengali: যাবুর
- Persian: زبور
- Turkish: Zebur
- Urdu: زبور
Quizzes to Test Your Understanding 🎓
As you explore this sacred convergence of divine word and worship, remember that in diversity lies a profound unity. Each facet carries echoes of eternal wisdom threaded through human struggle and divine solace.
- Professor Layla Al-Khatib, October 2023
May your journey in knowledge be as fulfilling as it is illuminating. 🌿
