The Dictionary
Meaning of the Word 'Khaatam-un-Nabiyyin'
(Mo'min:40)
It is evident that the text can bear
one meaning and it is that Khaatam-un-Nabiyyin stands for the
Finality of Prophethood with a clear implication that the prophethood
has been culminated and finalized in Hadhrat Mohammad (WAS). It is not
only the context that supports this interpretation but also the
lexicography.
According to Arabic lexicon and the
linguistic usage Khaatam means to affix seal; to close, to come
to an end; and to carry something to its ultimate end.
Khaatama al-'Amala
is equivalent to 'Faragha min al-'Almali' which means 'to get
over with the task.'
'Khaatama al-Ina' bears the
meaning;
'The vessel has been closed and sealed
so that nothing can go into it, nor can its contents spill out.'
'Khaatam-al-kitab' conveys the
meaning; 'The letter has been enclosed and sealed so that it is finally
secured.'
'Khaatama-'Ala-al-Qalb'
means;
'The heart has been sealed so that it
cannot perceive anything new nor can it forswear what it has already
imbibed.'
'Khitamu-Kulli-Mashrubin'
implies;
'the final taste that is left in the
mouth when the drink is over.'
Khaatimatu Kulli Shaiinn 'Aqibatuhu
wa Akhiratuhu means;
"The end in the case of everything
denotes its doom and ultimate finish.
"Khatm-ul-Shaii Balagha Akhirahu"
conveys the sense;
"To end a thing means to carry it to
its ultimate limit."
The term Khaatam-i-Qur'an is
used in the similar sense and the closing verses of Qur'anic Surahs are
referred to as Khawatim.
"Khaatim-ul-Qaum Akhirhuum"
means; "The last man in the tribe."
(Refer to Lisan-ul-'Arab; Qamus and
Aqrab-ul- Muwarid).
For this reason all linguists and
commentators agree that Khaatam-un-Nabiyyin means;
'The Last in the line of Prophets.'
The word Khaatam in its
dictionary meaning and linguistic usage does not refer to the post
office stamp which is affixed on the outgoing mail. Its literal meaning
is the 'seal' which is but on the envelope to secure its
contents.. |