Abstract:

The focal point of debates with regard to the Kitab constitutes the concepts of “Levh-i mahfûz” and “Ümmü’l kitâb”. It is a common misconception that “Levh-i mahfûz” is exactly the same as divine knowledge. Levh-i mahfûz isn’t a place where it was recorded but a place where revelation was taken at the stage of the descending of revelation. In the Qur’an, the concept of “Kitâb-ı maknûn”, not “Ümmü’l kitâb”, is used for the concept of “Lavh-i mahfûz”. Both concepts have stressed the actuality and protectiveness of revelation source. Ummü’l kitâb is the origin of “Lavh-i mahfûz” from which Qur’an and all scriptures originate. Thus, Ummü’l kitâb is a special concept that symbolizes divine will which is the source and essence of revelation. In this respect, Ummü’l kitâb is both the source of all being codes and all scriptures. Therefore, the concept of “Kitab” is a key concept that makes sense of the relation of God with being and humankind.

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