Qalb - Definition and Meaning
Qalb (قلب) in Arabic translates to “heart.” It denotes more than just the physical organ; in Islamic spirituality, particularly Sufi thought, qalb represents the core of human consciousness and emotion.
Etymology
Derived from the Arabic root “ق-ل-ب” (q-l-b), meaning “to turn” or “to change,” qalb signifies the heart’s dynamic nature, constantly in flux and receptive to divine truths.
Background
In numerous Quranic references, qalb is depicted as an intuitive faculty that perceives inner realities beyond the grasp of logical reasoning. This emphasis on the heart reflects its centrality in Islamic spiritual life.
Historical Context
- Sufi Epistemology: Sufi scholars define qalb as superior to the intellect in understanding divine mysteries, emphasizing experiential knowledge of God that transcends rational thought.
- Qur’anic Insights: Verses such as Quran 50:37, “Indeed, in that is a reminder for whoever has a heart or who listens while he is present [in mind],” highlight the contemplative function of the heart.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Middle Eastern Cultures: Qalb is a well-integrated concept, closely associated with both emotional sensitivity and spiritual depth.
- South Asian Context: The term is similarly resonant, often linking poetic traditions with deeper metaphysical ideas.
- Western Mysticism: Comparatively, the “heart” in Western mysticism carries overlapping connotations as a seat of spiritual intuition and love.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Fuad (فؤاد): Another term for “heart,” often used interchangeably.
- Lubb (لب): Refers to the “core” or “innermost essence,” closely linked to qalb.
- Nafs (نفس): The self or soul, often depicted in stages of spiritual purification which engage with qalb.
Exciting Facts
- Sufi Poetics: Renowned Sufi poets like Rumi extensively use qalb in their verses, illustrating the heart’s transformational journey towards divine love.
- Scientific Analog: Modern studies indicate heart-brain interactions that lend fascinating insights aligning physical experiences with the spiritual connotations of qalb.
Quotations
- Rumi: “Remember, the entrance door to the sanctuary is inside you.”
- Al-Ghazali: “Knowledge of the heart cannot be described in words. It must be seen within.”
Suggested Reading
- “The Alchemy of the Heart” by Hazrat Inayat Khan
- “Heart, Self, and Soul: The Sufi Psychology of Growth, Balance, and Harmony” by Shems Friedlander
- “The Essential Rumi” by Coleman Barks
Translations
- Arabic: قلب (Qalb)
- Turkish: Kalp
- Urdu: قلب (Qalb)
- Persian: دل (Del)
- Indonesian: Hati
- Bengali: হৃদয় (Hriday)
Quizzes
### The Arabic root for "Qalb" is based on which letters?
- [x] ق-ل-ب
- [ ] ن-ف-س
- [ ] ح-ب-ب
- [ ] ع-ل-م
> **Explanation:** The root "q-l-b" (ق-ل-ب) in Arabic alludes to the notions of turning and changing, embodying the heart's dynamic spiritual nature.
### In Sufi practice, which faculty is considered superior in unveiling divine mysteries?
- [x] Qalb (Heart)
- [ ] Aql (Intellect)
- [ ] Basar (Vision)
- [ ] Kalam (Speech)
> **Explanation:** Sufis regard the qalb, or heart, as superior to intellectual reasoning for grasping divine mysteries, emphasizing direct, experiential knowledge of God.
### Which Quranic verse emphasizes the contemplative role of qalb?
- [x] Quran 50:37
- [ ] Quran 2:186
- [ ] Quran 112:1
- [ ] Quran 47:19
> **Explanation:** Quran 50:37 states, "Indeed, in that is a reminder for whoever has a heart or who listens while he is present [in mind]," underscoring the heart's meditative role.
### Who among these was a renowned Sufi poet that extensively discussed the concept of qalb?
- [x] Rumi
- [ ] Omar Khayyam
- [ ] Ibn Sina
- [ ] Al-Kindi
> **Explanation:** Rumi's works are infused with references to the qalb, illustrating the heart's journey towards divine love and spiritual realization.
### Fuad is another term for what in the context of heart?
- [x] Heart
- [ ] Mind
- [ ] Spirit
- [ ] Body
> **Explanation:** Fuad (فؤاد) is often used interchangeably with qalb to denote the heart in a spiritual and emotional context.
### Which of the following terms is associated with the "innermost essence" and relates to qalb?
- [x] Lubb
- [ ] Nafs
- [ ] Ruh
- [ ] Aql
> **Explanation:** Lubb (لب) refers to the "core" or "innermost essence" of something and is conceptually linked to qalb's deeper spiritual connotations.
### In Western mysticism, what concept is closely analogous to "qalb"?
- [x] The Heart
- [ ] The Spirit
- [ ] The Eye
- [ ] The Book
> **Explanation:** The "heart" in Western mysticism often parallels the Islamic concept of qalb, seen as a seat of spiritual intuition and divine love.
### Who is the contemporary Sufi author known for the book "The Alchemy of the Heart"?
- [x] Hazrat Inayat Khan
- [ ] Idries Shah
- [ ] Rumi
- [ ] Al-Ghazali
> **Explanation:** Hazrat Inayat Khan, a prominent Sufi teacher, wrote "The Alchemy of the Heart," exploring the profound spiritual nature of the qalb.
Farewell Thought: “May our hearts (qalb) continuously evolve in seeking divine truths, embodying both compassion and reflection as we navigate through life’s spiritual journey.”
