📜 The Enigmatic Figure: UḤNŪK͟H (احنوخ) - Unveiling the Islamic Enoch
Comprehensive Definition
UḤNŪK͟H (احنوخ): UḤNŪK͟H, known as Enoch in the Old Testament, is considered to be the same personality as Idrīs in Islamic tradition. Idrīs is narrated in the Qurʾān as a prophet and a righteous man lifted to high dignity. Both figures share mystical and philosophically profound narratives in religious texts.
Etymology
The name UḤNŪK͟H (احنوخ) originates from Hebrew, Ḥănōḵ, meaning “dedicated” or “initiated.” It was latinized to Enoch. In Islamic tradition, Idrīs means “interpreter.”
Background
Biblical Context
In the Old Testament, Enoch is mentioned in Genesis as a seventh-generation descendant of Adam who “walked with God” and was taken by Him, bypassing death.
Genesis 5:24: “Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more because God took him away.”
Quranic Context
Idrīs is said to be wise and a man of truth. He is one of the few prophets honored with the title “honorable” and “raised to a high station.”
Surah Maryam (19:56-57): “And mention in the Book, Idris. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet. And We raised him to a high station.”
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities:
- Recognition of piety: Both Enoch and Idrīs are remembered for their righteousness and closeness to God.
- Mystical elements: Both figures possess mystical characteristics being “taken” by God.
Differences:
- Scriptural traditions: Differences by textual tradition, i.e., the Bible versus the Qur’an.
- Narrative roles: Idrīs has additional narrative roles in Islamic eschatology and Sufi mysticism.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Enoch (Old Testament equivalent)
- Idrīs (Islamic tradition)
Antonyms:
- Not applicable as UḤNŪK͟H is a dedicated prophet figure without an opposite.
Related Terms with Definitions:
- Prophet (نبي): A person regarded as an inspired teacher or proclaimer of God’s will.
- Genesis: The first book of the Bible which mentions Enoch.
- Sufism (تصوف): Islamic mysticism which often incorporates Idris into its teachings.
- Eschatology: The study of the end times, sometimes incorporating figures like Idrīs.
Exciting Facts:
- Idrīs is the only prophetic figure believed to have an understanding of celestial science, including writing and mathematics.
- Both Enoch and Idrīs serve as ideal models for integration of mysticism and scholarly knowledge in their respective traditions.
Quotations from Notable Writers:
Jalaluddin Rumi:
“Idrīs ascends the heavens and contemplates the divine. In solitude he finds unity with the celestial spheres.”
References:
- “The Prophets and the Patriarchs” by Ahmad Ali: A deep dive into the lives of prophetic figures in Islam, comparing narratives with other traditions.
- “Islamic Eschatology and Sufism” by Farid Ud-Din: Discusses the role of mystical figures and their relevance to Islamic eschatology.
Suggested Literature and Further Studies:
- “The Lives of the Prophets” by Mubarak Ali: Explores the lives of prophets mentioned in the Qurʾān and their historical backgrounds.
- “Genesis and Qurʾān: Comparative Studies” by Sara al-Hilali: A scholarly comparative analysis of shared figures between the Bible and the Qurʾān.
- “Sufism and its Saints” by Alexander Maverick: Investigation into the lives of saints in Sufism, featuring Idrīs prominently.
Quizzes to Test Your Knowledge:
As you journey through the overlapping narratives and theological intricacies of UḤNŪK͟H/Enoch and Idrīs, may you find enrichment and inspiration in these storied traditions. The convergence of wisdom and mysticism embodied by these figures serves as a profound reminder of humanity’s eternal quest for divine connection and knowledge.
Farewell, until our next exploration into the rich tapestry of Islamic and religious traditions!
Yusuf Al-Badri, 2023-10-03.
