b-t-n

Description

The Arabic root b-t-n fundamentally denotes that which is internal, hidden, or concealed, in contrast to what is outward or apparent. In the Quran, it manifests in both physical meanings like wombs and bellies (representing inner bodily spaces) and metaphorical meanings like hidden sins, concealed knowledge, or intimate secrets. This root is theologically significant as it emphasizes that Allah knows both the outward (ẓāhir) and inward (bāṭin) dimensions of reality, reminding believers that nothing hidden escapes divine knowledge and that inner purity matters as much as outward righteousness.