An Analytical Approach To Letter “Waw” As Cultural And Aesthetic Component

All letters in an alphabet are of high importance and are necessary for the language. However, it is certain that some letters in a language are used more frequently compared to others. It is possible to notice this even by taking a glance at dictionaries. Also, it can be argued that some letters are of vital importance in some languages due to grammar rules. Letter ‘waw’ serves several purposes especially in Arabic, Persian, and Ottoman Turkish. In terms of its attributions within Turkish-Islamic culture and art, it can be easily realized that the symbolic value of the letter is very high. In addition to its functions in grammar, throughout the history letter waw has represented all Islamic art in general and aesthetic of calligraphy in particular; furthermore, metaphysical, religious, and cultural meanings were also designated to the letter. Since as a letter it symbolizes both God and human being, it brought about the idea that it can be seen as the manifestation of the thought ‘unity of existence’ which has an important place within Islamic Mysticism. Letter ‘waw’ especially with the style written according to the jaly thuluth principles, is a form frequently seen both in architectural and literal works of art. Calligraphers produced various works in which letter ‘waw’ is emphasized or centered. Since some of the compositions have become vintage samples, almost every calligrapher re-wrote them repeatedly. This study tries to analyze the aesthetical dimensions of letter ‘waw’ within the art of Islamic calligraphy along with its grammatical and symbolic meanings.

Keywords

Islamic calligraphy, letter ‘waw’, abjad, symbolic meaning, aesthetic.