Understanding ‘Ilah’

THE CONCEPT OF RELIGION divinity of idols and spirits is specifically based on the argument that they lack the powers needed to qualify as “ilah.” The first aspect thus relates to the original meaning of “ilah,” and the second relates to what this meaning logically entails. In the book under discussion, while the original meaning of “ilah” is acknowledged linguistically (p. 10), the distinction between its core meaning and its logical entailments is subsequently overlooked. Instead, a list of various “meanings” is provided, blending both the original meaning and its entailments: “It becomes clear that the term ‘ilah’ refers to a deity based on several ideas: the ability to provide relief, offer protection, bring peace, and demonstrate superiority and authority, along with owning powers that inspire trust in the deity’s ability to meet needs and offer refuge. Additionally, there is a sense of mystery surrounding its nature or its secrecy from the public, as well as a feeling of longing toward it.” (p. 11) In this explanation, the ideas of superiority and authority, placed in the middle, are requirements for true divinity but are not part of the literal meaning of “ilah.” That is, the linguistic meaning of “ilah” does not imply power. Instead, it is only an entity endowed