What does Al-aṣnam mean?

Islam > Glossary > Al-aṣnam

Discover the meaning of the term Al-aṣnam (أصنام) in Islamic vocabulary.

Definition Al-aṣnam

Al-aṣnam according to Mu'jam al-Mustalahat al-Fiqhiyya

Plural of sanam. The sanam: it has been said it is the idol (wathan) shaped from stones or wood, related from Ibn 'Abbas; it has been said the sanam is a figure of silver, copper, or wood they worshipped, seeking nearness to God Most High by it; it has been said the sanam is what has the form of an animal; it has been said: whatever is worshipped apart from God is called sanam. Two benefits: 1. The difference between the ansab and the asnam: the asnam are shaped, carved figures, while the ansab are not, being set-up carved stones. 2. The difference between the awthan and the asnam: in 'Ahkam al-Qur'an' by al-Jassas: the wathan is like the nasb. This indicates that wathan is a name applied to what is not a shaped figure, since the Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) said to 'Adi b. Hatim when he came to him with a cross around his neck: 'cast this idol (wathan) from your neck.'

Related terms: Al-aṣnam