w-j-h

Description

The Arabic root و-ج-ه (w-j-h) fundamentally conveys the concept of facing, direction, or the front/surface of something, with its most literal meaning being face. In the Quran, this root extends beyond the physical face to encompass profound theological meanings including one's purpose or intention, the direction of worship (qibla), and metaphorically the essence or presence of Allah Himself, as in the phrase "Face of Allah" denoting His eternal essence. The root's versatility allows it to express both spatial orientation (turning one's face toward something) and spiritual orientation (directing one's entire being toward God), making it central to Islamic concepts of worship, divine presence, and human purpose.