9/9 Word: JINN

The word JINN is used in Al-Hijr, the 15th sura of the Qur'an. "We created man out of dried clay formed from dark mud-the jinn We created before, from the fire of scorching wind" (15:26-7). According to the OED, the term jinn comes from Muslim demonology and is an order of spirit lower than the angels, and "said to have the power of appearing in human and animal forms, and to exercise supernatural influence over men." Jinn is an important term to understand, as Iblis is a jinn. He was forged from fire, which he states in 7:12, and he assumes an animal form, the serpent, when tempting Eve.