q-d-s

Description

The Arabic root q-d-s conveys the core meaning of holiness, sanctification, and purity, referring to that which is set apart from the profane and made sacred. In the Quranic context, this root appears in references to Allah's holiness (al-Quddus), the Holy Spirit (Ruh al-Qudus) associated with angel Gabriel, the Holy Land (al-Ard al-Muqaddasa) referring to Jerusalem and its surroundings, and the angels' act of glorifying and sanctifying Allah. The root emphasizes the absolute transcendence and purity of the divine, as well as the sanctified status of certain places, beings, and acts of worship that are consecrated to God.