Qoran Shenakht

The present paper investigates the nature and domain of a discipline to which Quran refers as "the Knowledge of Names". A descriptive-analytical method is used in this research. Man's acquaintance with this discipline is the reason for his superiority over the angels and sign of his qualification to be God's vicegerent on the earth. The Angels were not able to learn this knowledge completely; therefore, they admitted Prophet Adam's high dignity. Different views have been proposed to give a clear picture of this valuable Knowledge. This paper, however, concludes that the Knowledge of Names means the acquaintance with the Names and Most Beautiful attributes of the Most High God, which is, no doubt, limitedly possible for those other than God. It is an immediate knowledge and includes celestial realities and knowledge of material world. No doubt, due to requirements of material world, one who has this knowledge cannot do without revelation and other ways of acquiring divine sciences. This knowledge was not exclusive to the Prophet Adam (peace be upon him) but other prophets and Imams (peace be upon them) had access to it.