Definition, Etymology, and Significance of Ruh
Definition
“Ruh” (روح) in Islamic theology refers to the spirit or soul, considered the divine element within every living being. The term is used twenty-one times in the Quran to convey the idea of the life force imparted by Allah. In broader understanding, Ruh is the immaterial, immortal essence that transcends the physical body, often seen as the true self or personality.
Etymology
The Arabic word “Ruh” (روح) stems from the root “r-w-ḥ” (ر-و-ح), which infers meanings connected with “breath,” “spirit,” and “wind,” symbolizing the life-giving aspect of the divine breath.
Historical Context
The concept of Ruh has its origins in pre-Islamic beliefs where breath and spirit were intertwined concepts. With the advent of Islam, these notions were synthesized into a coherent theological and philosophical framework. The Quran and Hadith emphasize Ruh’s divine origin, stressing its paramount role in conveying life, spiritual awareness, and personal identity.
The understanding of Ruh has also been crucial in differentiating between life and non-life, as well as higher spiritual states vs. corporeal existence. Classical Islamic scholars, theologians, and Sufis have deeply analyzed Ruh, propagating rich interpretations and practices around its significance.
Cultural Variance and Comparison
The concept of Ruh is found prevalently in Sufi literature, where it is distinguished from “nafs” (self or ego). While Ruh is often perceived as pure and divine, nafs is considered the lower or animalistic aspect of the human self that needs to be disciplined for spiritual ascent.
Across different cultures and Islamic sects, the concept of Ruh holds unique expressions. For instance:
- In Persian, the term for Ruh is also “روح” (rūḥ).
- In Urdu, it is similarly “روح” (roh).
- In Indonesian and Malay, it is “Roh”.
- The Turkic languages such as Turkish will use “Ruh” (same as Arabic).
- In Bengali, it is often transliterated as “রূহ” (ruh).
Related Terms
- Nafs: Refers to the self or ego, often perceived in a less spiritual context in contrast to Ruh.
- Qalb: The heart, often representing emotional and spiritual consciousness.
- Jibril (Gabriel): Often referred to as Ruh al-Qudus (Holy Spirit).
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms: Nafs (self), Spirit, Soul, Essence. Antonyms: Corporeality, Body, Matter, Flesh.
Quotations
“Indeed, We have created man in the best of molds. Then We return him to the lowest of the low, except those who believe and do righteous deeds.” - [Quran 95:4–6]
“When My servant draws near to Me, I am as close as the ruh, the very breath within his ribcage.” - [Hadith Qudsi]
Fascinating Fact
Did you know that in some Sufi traditions, it is believed that the Ruh of every individual is pre-existent in a cosmic matrix awaiting to descend into the physical realm?
Recommended Literature
- Al-Ghazali’s “The Alchemy of Happiness”
- Ibn Arabi’s “The Bezels of Wisdom”
- Seyyed Hossein Nasr’s, “The Garden of Truth”
Quiz on Ruh
Farewell Thought: “Understanding Ruh is an invitation to delve into the very core of one’s existence, encompassing a journey beyond the corporeal towards a divine resonance of the soul.”
wishing you peace and profound insights,
Layla Mahmoud
October 3, 2023
