Arabic Language
4 items across 2 content types
Debate Excerpts (3)
Individual points from debates discussing this topic
“How is the names-and-attributes question answered?”
The reply is that some sifat are unique to Allah, such as Ar-Rahman, while others can be used for creation in a qualified sense, such as Rahim or loving. The argument is that there is a difference between sharing a word in a restricted context and applying Allah's unique attributes to a creature in a way that rivals Him.
“How is the first-and-last claim answered in terms of language?”
The reply is that language matters: the Arabic awwal and akhir are not identical to Greek Alpha and Omega, and the same expression can have different ranges in different languages. The argument is that you cannot simply move a title from one scriptural language into another and assume it carries the same theological weight.
“How is sonship distinguished from physical begetting?”
The reply is that son language can be used as a term of endearment, including in Arabic examples such as walid, and therefore not every use of 'son' implies a literal divine relation. The speaker says the Christian argument is collapsing different linguistic uses into one, as if every son-language example must mean the same thing.
Questions (1)
Does Jihad mean 'Holy War'?
No. Many people translate 'Jihad' as 'Holy War,' but the Arabic words for 'holy war' — 'Harbum Muqaddasah' — appear nowhere in the Qur'an or any authentic Hadith. The term 'holy war' was first coined by European orientalists to describe the Crusades and was later misapplied to Islam. The Arabic word 'Jihad' comes from 'jahada,' meaning to strive or struggle.