t-m-s

Description

The Arabic root ṭ-m-s (طمس) carries the core meaning of erasing, obliterating, or removing distinguishing features to the point where something loses its original form or identity. In the Quranic context, it frequently refers to divine punishment or alteration, whether describing the potential obliteration of physical features like faces, the erasure of previous revelations or scriptures, or the blinding of vision as a form of spiritual or physical chastisement. This root emphasizes complete effacement rather than mere destruction, highlighting the removal of clarity, guidance, or recognizable form as a consequence of rejection or divine will.