🕌 Shadīdu ʾl-Quwā (شديد القوى): The Mighty One in Islamic Thought
Comprehensive Definition:
Shadīdu ʾl-Quwā (شديد القوى), meaning “One terrible in power” or “One formidable in strength,” is a distinguished title assigned to Archangel Gabriel (Jibrīl in Arabic) in the Qurʾān. Specifically, this phrase appears in Sūratu ʾn-Najm (The Star), verse 5: “Verily the Qurʾān is no other than a revelation revealed to him: one terrible in power (Shadīdu ʾl-Quwā) taught it him.” This title highlights Gabriel’s immense strength and authority as appointed by God.
Etymology:
- Shadīd (شديد): From the Arabic root “sh-d-d” (ش-د-د) connoting strength, firmness, and intensity.
- Quwā (قوى): A derivation of “q-w-y” (ق-و-ي), meaning power, potency, and might.
Background:
Throughout Islamic tradition, Gabriel holds a prominent role as the messenger of God, tasked with conveying revelation to prophets. The title Shadīdu ʾl-Quwā underscores Gabriel’s paramount position, portraying him as immensely powerful and authoritative.
Cultural Differences and Similarities:
While all Abrahamic faiths—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—respect Gabriel as a divine messenger, Islam strongly emphasizes his role in the revelation of the Qurʾān. Compared to Judeo-Christian archangels, Islam ascribes an unparalleled potency to Gabriel, particularly in his spiritual and communicative faculties.
Synonyms:
- Al-Rūḥ al-Amīn (الروح الأمين): The Trustworthy Spirit
- Jibrāʾīl (جبريل): Gabriel
Antonyms:
There are no direct antonyms, but figures representing weakness, ignorance, or false revelation could be considered opposites in thought.
Related Terms with Definitions:
- Wāḥy (وحي): Revelation
- Nabī (نبي): Prophet
- Malak (ملك): Angel
- Tanzīl (تنزيل): Divine revelation itself
- Al-Risālah (الرسالة): The Message
Exciting Facts:
- Gabriel’s Resplendent Form: Islamic traditions describe Gabriel as having 600 wings filled with indescribable beauty, extending beyond human imagination.
- First Revelation: Gabriel’s first revelation to the Prophet Muhammad, “Read in the name of your Lord” (Iqra’ bismi rabbika), was delivered with overwhelming authority and presence.
- Night of Power: The descent of Gabriel during Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power) is marked by tranquility and divine blessings, magnifying his exalted role.
Quotations from Notable Writers:
- Rumi: “Gabriel brings the Wakeful Word from the Beloved’s breath, unraveling secrets obscure to all but the pure-hearted.”
- Ibn Kathir: “The mighty angel Shadīdu ʾl-Quwā bears the divine revelations with utmost fidelity and strength, ensuring God’s light reaches every true seeker.”
References:
- Qurʾān, Sūratu ʾn-Najm (The Star), verse 5.
- Tafsīr Ibn Kathir: A meticulous exegesis providing deeper insights into Gabriel’s role.
- The Islamic View of the Occult by Ibn Taymiyyah: Further reflections on angelic presences and their tasks.
Suggested Literature for Further Studies:
- “The Lives of Man” by Imam al-Haddad: Explore angelic interactions and their influences.
- “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings: Comprehensive insights into Gabriel’s appearances.
- “The Qurʾān – Oxford World’s Classics” Translation by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
✨ Farewell Thought
Reflecting on Shadīdu ʾl-Quwā reminds us of the remarkable divine orchestration behind every revelation. In our quest for spiritual understanding, may we too seek firmness, integrity, and unwavering faith, drawing inspiration from the indomitable qualities of the mighty Archangel Gabriel.
May this study of Shadīdu ʾl-Quwā inspire you to delve deeper into the vast ocean of Islamic knowledge and history.
By Najim Ahmed October 2023
