What is Rūḥu ʾllāh (روح الله)?
Rūḥu ʾllāh (روح الله), meaning “The Spirit of God,” is a title specifically associated with Jesus (عيسى, ‘Isā) in Islamic theology. Derived from Arabic, “Rūḥ” can mean “spirit” or “soul,” while “ʾllāh” translates directly to “God”, thus forming the conceptual title, “Spirit of God.”
Etymology and Background
The word Rūḥ (روح) originates from the Arabic root “ra wa ḥa” (ر و ح), typically associated with breath, spirit, or life force. The term “Rūḥu ʾllāh” doesn’t merely refer to any spirit; it uniquely highlights an attribute of the divine essence granted to Jesus. Its significance is profoundly theological, emphasizing Jesus’ divine inspiration and special status in Islam.
Qurʾānic References and Interpretation
In the Qurʾān, Jesus is bestowed with the title Rūḥu ʾllāh:
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Sūratu ʾn-Nisāʾ (Chapter 4: Verse 171):
“The Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, is only an Apostle of God, and His Word, which He conveyed into Mary and a spirit proceeding from Himself." (رُوحٍ مِنْهُ)
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Sūratu ʾl-Ambyāʾ (Chapter 21: Verse 91):
“And We made Mary’s son, a sign, and into whom We breathed out our spirit…"
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Sūratu ʾt-Taḥrīm (Chapter 66: Verse 12):
“Into whose womb We breathed of Our spirit…"
These verses elucidate the divinely unique aspect of Jesus’ creation, bridging physical existence and spiritual infusion directly by God’s decree.
Similarities and Differences in Cultural and Religious Contexts
Rūḥu ʾllāh illustrates a common thread of divine inspiration reminiscent of religious narratives across faiths. For instance, the Holy Spirit in Christianity implies a similar essence of divine connection. However, in Islamic context, while Jesus is highly revered and seen as a prophet, he is expressly distinguished from divinity, thereby underlining theological differences between Islam and Christianity regarding the nature of Jesus.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
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Synonyms: Divine Spirit, Holy Spirit (in broad spiritual sense)
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Antonyms: Mortal, Earthly, Human Spirit
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Related Terms:
- Kalimah (كلمة): The ‘Word’ of God, as directly associated with Jesus.
- Rūḥ (روح): General term for spirit or soul.
- Muḥammad (محمد): Prophet of Islam.
- Insān (إنسان): General term for human/being.
Exciting Facts
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All-Encompassing Spirit: Unique only to Jesus and distinct from other prophets.
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Eschatological Connections: Points to Jesus’ eschatological role in the end times.
Quotations
“The breath of spirit infused into one, lifts the chains of mortal bounds, for it is neither mere clay nor just the flesh.” - Amina Al-Fahad.
References and Suggest Literature
For further reading and a comprehensive understanding:
- “The Qur’an: A New Translation” by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem
- “Jesus in the Qur’an” by Geoffrey Parrinder
- “Muhammad and the Christian: A Question of Response” by Kenneth Cragg
Quizzes
May this exploration of Rūḥu ʾllāh inspire a deeper understanding of the intersecting faiths and divine attributes bridging the spiritual reflections across religions.
Farewell Thought: “Embrace the essence of spirits connecting to the Divine, as such, leads us to realms of unity and limitless enlightenment.”
- Fatima Jalali, October 5, 2023.
