Etymology and Semantic Evolution of "Molla" and "Mövlana": From Ancient Mythological Archetypes to Islamic Intellectual Tradition
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Adgozelzade-Rasulova Nushaba Elshad gizi
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Annotation
This article explores the etymological roots and semantic development of the titles "molla" and "mövlana" (mevlana), which were historically attached to the name of the classical Turkic poet Muhammad Fuzuli. The study traces the possible connection between the "ma/mo" particle found in these words and ancient mythological archetypes of protection and guardianship in pre-Islamic civilizations, including Sumerian, Egyptian, Central Asian, and Chinese cultures. It then examines the Arabic term "mawla", its usage in the Qur'an, and its evolution from "freed slave" or "client" (mawali) to "master", "protector", and ultimately "Lord" (God). The article argues that the semantic shift from a social to a divine and then to an honorific scholarly title reflects broader cultural and religious transformations in Islamic societies. Finally, the study explains why medieval scholars and poets like Fuzuli were honored with these titles, linking them to the high intellectual and spiritual standards of the time.
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Authors
Adgozelzade-Rasulova Nushaba Elshad gizi
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