Ibrahim (Abraham) was thrown into a fire in Şanlıurfa, Turkey, according to Jewish and Islamic legends. Specifically, this event is associated with the site now known as Balıklıgöl.
The Legend of Ibrahim and Balıklıgöl
The ancient city of Şanlıurfa in southeastern Turkey is steeped in a rich tapestry of historical and religious narratives. Among the most prominent is the legend concerning the prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).
- The Act: According to these legends, it was Nimrod, the tyrannical ruler of the time, who ordered Ibrahim to be cast into a fire. This act was a punishment for Ibrahim's monotheistic beliefs and his defiance of idol worship.
- The Miracle: Divine intervention is said to have occurred, turning the fire into water and the burning coals into fish, thus saving Ibrahim.
- The Location: The site where this miraculous event is believed to have taken place is now known as Balıklıgöl, which translates to "Fish Lake."
Balıklıgöl: A Sacred Site
Balıklıgöl is not merely a historical landmark but a sacred complex that draws pilgrims and tourists alike.
- Alternative Names: The pool is also known by other significant names, reflecting its deep religious and cultural importance:
- Pool of Abraham
- Halil-Ür Rahman Lake (meaning "Lake of the Friend of God," referring to Abraham, who is often called "Khalilullah")
- Location: It is situated in the southwest of the city center of Şanlıurfa, providing a tranquil and reflective atmosphere. The fish in the pool are considered sacred, and it is forbidden to catch them.
This site serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring faith and the miraculous events central to the narratives of Abraham in both Jewish and Islamic traditions.
