An even better creation: The role of adam and eve in shii narratives about Fatimah al-Zahra

Abstract

This article explores how the Adamic narratives of the Quran and the later hagiographical and theological traditions serve as a theological fulcrum through which Fatimah al-Zahra's roles establish a connection between the tripartite realms of pre-Creation, the earthly world, and the Day of Judgment. Fatimah represents the exoteric tradition of prophecy in which her father Muhammad is the seal of the prophets (khatim al-nubuwwa), and the esoteric knowledge and spirituality of the Imamate is manifested through her role as Mother of the Imamate (umm al-aimma). Fatimah's presence, whether physically or implicitly in the religious imagination, can be discerned through a close reading of several different aspects of traditions and exegesis of the story of Adam's creation and the rational knowledge given to him by God, as well as Eve's transgression and physical punishment. © 2013 The Author.