Comprehensive Definition
Definition
Sharāb (شراب) – In its original context, the term “sharāb” means “that which is drunk” or “a drink.” Over time, it became associated primarily with wine and other intoxicating beverages. In mystic Sufi writings, sharāb transcends its literal meaning and metaphorically denotes the overwhelming dominion of Divine love over the human heart.
Etymology
The word Sharāb (شراب) comes from the Arabic root “شرب” (shariba), which means “to drink.” The term evolved to specifically denote drinks that were intoxicating in nature, particularly wine.
Background
In pre-Islamic Arabia, wine (sharāb) held a significant position in social and cultural practices. However, with the advent of Islam, the consumption of intoxicants was prohibited. Despite this, the metaphorical and symbolic connotations of wine persisted, especially in Sufi mystical poetry and prose, where wine began to represent the intense, inebriating experience of Divine love and unity with God.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Islamic Context: Islamic teachings strictly prohibit the consumption of wine and intoxicants. However, this restriction has not hindered the symbolic use of sharāb in spiritual and poetic writings.
- Comparative Religious Context: In many cultures and religions, wine often symbolizes celebration and sacredness, such as in Christianity where wine is a sacrament. The mystical symbolism of sharāb in Sufism parallels the use of wine symbolism in Christian mysticism, emphasizing ecstatic union with the Divine.
Synonyms
- Amber (أمبر): Also used in poetic language symbolizing intoxicating beauty.
- Khamar (خمر): Another Arabic term specific to wine and intoxicants.
- Nabeedh (نبيذ): General term for fermented drinks in classical texts.
Antonyms
- Safa (صفاء): Clarity or purity, often used to suggest the state of being free from intoxication.
- Ikhlas (إخلاص): Sincerity or purity of intention and faith.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Saki (ساقي): The cupbearer who serves wine in poetry, frequently symbolizing a spiritual guide or inspirer.
- Mast (مست): The state of intoxication, often used in Sufi literature to denote spiritual ecstasy or rapture.
Exciting Facts
- Epic Poetry: The 10th-century Persian poet Rumi frequently used sharāb as a metaphor for Divine love.
- Sufis and Sharāb: Many Sufi texts describe sharāb experiences which feature metaphorical intoxication rooted in spiritual enlightenment.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Rumi: “O lovers! The intoxication of this wine has emptied my soul of every subtle thought!”
- Hafiz: “In the hand of Love’s drunkəard, there are spirituous liquors which force me drunkenness even though reason may forbid.”
References
- Rumi, Jalaluddin. “The Essential Rumi.” Translated by Coleman Barks, HarperOne, 1995.
- Schimmel, Annemarie. “The Triumphal Sun: A Study of the Works of Jalaloddin Rumi.” SUNY Press, 1993.
- Nicholson, Reynold A. “The Mystics of Islam.” Routledge, 2002.
Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies and Inspiration
- Book: “The Sufis” by Idries Shah.
- Publication: “Sufi Essays” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
- Journal: The Journal of Islamic Studies, Oxford Academic.
May your journey into understanding Sharāb enrich your knowledge of the rich tapestry of Islamic mystic symbolism. Dive deep and discover the many beautiful layers and profound insights within Sufi poetry and prose.
Rashid Al-Hashimi
October 03, 2023
