Definition and Description
K͟hātimu ʾn-Nubūwah (خاتم النبوة), or the Seal of Prophecy, pertains to an extraordinary mark observed on the back of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Various traditions describe this seal as a physical feature resembling a mole, believed to validate Muhammad’s role as K͟hātimu ʾn-Nabīyīn—the Seal of the Prophets. According to different narrations in Islamic tradition, this mark was described diversely: ranging from the size of the knob of a bridal canopy, a pigeon’s egg, to even the size of a closed fist. Some traditions indicate it was a collection of hairs, shining brilliantly with inscriptions like “God is one and has no Associate.”
Etymology
The phrase K͟hātimu ʾn-Nubūwah is a combination of Arabic terms, “K͟hātim” meaning “seal” or “stamp,” and “Nubūwah” meaning “prophecy.” Thus, it signifies the Seal of Prophecy, a mark that affirms the finality of Muhammad’s prophethood.
Background
The nature of this seal has been a subject of extensive discussion among Islamic scholars and followers. According to the Mishkātu ʾl-Maṣābiḥ (book iii, ch. 7), the Seal of Prophecy had physical representations that were subjects of legitimacy and divinity. Muhammad’s refusal to have it removed by Abū Rams̤āʾ, a skilled surgeon, highlighted a deeper divine purpose behind its existence, reinforcing the spiritual belief attached to it.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
The concept of physical signs marking prophetic figures is not exclusive to Islam. Similar beliefs exist in other religious traditions:
- Christianity: Saint Paul’s stigmata is believed to be a mark of divine favor.
- Hinduism: Marks or symbols called “Lakshanas” identify divine or special beings in Hindu mythology.
Such cultural manifestations symbolize divine endorsement and the bestowed authority of religious leaders.
Synonyms
- Seal of Prophethood
- Mark of Prophecy
Antonyms
- Mundane Indications
- Non-divine Marks
Related Terms
- Prophethood (Nubūwah, نبوة): The state or occupation of being a prophet.
- K͟hātimu ʾn-Nabīyīn (خاتم النبيين): The Seal of the Prophets, a title specific to Muhammad.
Exciting Facts
- Prophetic Tradition: The Seal of Prophecy on Muhammad’s back is one of the most profound traditional validations of his messianic role in Islam.
- Miraculous Healing: There are narrations emphasizing the seal’s miraculous nature, with some garnishing embellishments like light emitting from it.
- Mishkātu ʾl-Maṣābiḥ Reference: This respected Hadith collection offers vivid descriptions and perspectives on the seal, regarded deeply in Islamic theology.
Quotations
“The Physician thereof is He who placed it where it is.” — Attribution to Muhammad, reflecting the acceptance of the divine sign.
“Divinity finds its seal in prophecy, marking the bearer as the final voice of truth, the ultimate beacon to guide souls.” — Scholarly reflection by Ibn Al-Arabi
Suggested Literature and Sources
- “Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq: A historic biography of Muhammad providing insights into physical descriptions and validations.
- “Hadith collections of Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim”: Looking into authenticated narrations that speak about the Seal of Prophecy.
- “Muhammad: Man and Prophet” by Adil Salahi: Another well-regarded text dealing with Muhammad’s prophetic life and the miraculous signs.
Farewell
May the knowledge of K͟hātimu ʾn-Nubūwah inspire you to explore the depths of prophetic traditions and understand the intricate links between divine marks and theological affirmations. As Ibn Al-Arabi eloquently stated, the finality and seal of prophecy bind the eternal truths guiding human existence.
May your journey into the understanding of Islamic theology be as enlightening as the profound legacies carried through time.
