SATANIC VERSES Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Satanic Verses" refers to a controversial incident or concept that holds significant religious and literary context. The definition can be understood from two perspectives: its origin tied to Islamic history and its interpretation within Salman Rushdie's novel.
In Islamic history, the Satanic Verses are believed to be a series of verses mentioned in early accounts of Prophet Muhammad's life. It is said that Satan tempted the Prophet to recite certain verses praising pagan deities as a compromise to gain acceptance and conversions from the local Meccan idol worshippers. However, these verses were later deemed satanic, hence the term "Satanic Verses."
Salman Rushdie's novel, also titled "The Satanic Verses," explores various themes including religion, identity, and cultural differences. It fictionalizes a similar incident involving a character named Gibreel Farishta, who experiences hallucinations and believes he is receiving revelations from the archangel Gabriel. These hallucinations mimic the idea of the Satanic Verses as described in Islamic history.
The novel faced severe controversy and was viewed as blasphemous by some Muslim communities due to its provocative portrayal of religious and historical figures. The term "Satanic Verses" has, therefore, become synonymous with any contentious expression or literary work that challenges, provokes, or questions religious beliefs or ideas, particularly within the context of Islam.
Etymology of SATANIC VERSES
The term "Satanic Verses" is primarily associated with the controversial novel of the same name written by Salman Rushdie. However, the concept of "Satanic Verses" predates the novel as it is rooted in Islamic history and folklore.
The origin of the term can be traced back to a historical incident known as the "Satanic Verses" which allegedly occurred during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad. According to some early Islamic sources, it is said that Muhammad initially included verses in the Quran that allowed for the worship of three pre-Islamic Meccan goddesses: Al-Lat, Al-Uzza, and Manat. These verses were later discounted and declared to be false revelations inspired by Satan.
The term "Satanic Verses" itself refers to these disputed verses that were believed to have been temporarily included in the Quran.
