THE ORIGIN OF THE CONCEPT OF THE PROTECTED TREE IN ART AND DIVINE PROHIBITION: THE SHAJARA (GENEALOGY) CONCEPT

Abstract

This scholarly article examines the “protected tree” motif in art (specifically the tree of life guarded by flanking figures) and its connection to the divine prohibition in the Adam and Eve narrative across religions. First, the presence of the tree of life motif in ancient art and Azerbaijani cultural heritage is explored with examples: a sacred tree often depicted with two symmetric guardian animals or beings, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and immortality. The article then analyzes the scriptural account of Adam and Eve‟s forbidden tree. Citing verses 19-22 of Surah AlA„raf, the study proposes that the Quran‟s forbidden tree can be logically understood as the tree of life, i.e. a metaphor for establishing a lineage (“building a shajara”, engaging in procreative sexual relations). It is argued that in the Eden narrative, Adam and Eve were instructed not to procreate (not to start a family tree) while in Paradise. Supporting evidence from Quranic text is presented: Satan‟s temptation aimed to reveal their nakedness, and upon eating the fruit, Adam and Eve became aware of their sexuality and covered themselves with leaves – suggesting the forbidden act was of a sexual nature. The concept of “shajara” (genealogical tree) is explained, noting that in Arabic the word means “tree” and by extension a family lineage chart. The article draws on interpretations by modern Islamic scholars (e.g. Javed Ahmad Ghamidi) and comparative tradition, which propose that the original sin was metaphorically a premature conjugal act rather than mere disobedience. In this light, the protected tree motif in art and the forbidden tree in scripture are two facets of the same idea – the sanctity of the tree of life. The article concludes that the genealogy concept is embedded in both art and scripture: the tree of life guarded in art represents the revered continuity of life, while the forbidden tree allegory in religion underscores divine regulation of human procreation. This interdisciplinary approach offers a novel understanding that the first divine prohibition to humankind was essentially about restraining procreation, symbolized through the protected life-giving tree, and breaking this rule initiated the human family tree under mortal conditions.