Al-Bāʿis̤ (الباعث)
Definition and Significance
Al-Bāʿis̤ (الباعث), one of the ninety-nine special names (Asma-ul-Husna) of God in Islam, translates to “The Awakener” or “He who awakens”. This divine attribute is particularly significant in the context of the Day of Resurrection (Yawm al-Qiyamah), where it denotes God’s power to awaken and resurrect the dead for judgment.
Etymology
The term Al-Bāʿis̤ derives from the Arabic root ب-ع-ث (ba-ʿa-tha), which generally means ’to send’ or ’to dispatch’. In Islamic theology, it specifically pertains to “sending forth” the deceased from their graves.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: الباعث (Al-Bāʿis̤)
- Turkish: Dirilten
Theological Implications
Al-Bāʿis̤ conveys the Islamic belief in life after death and underscores God’s authority and power to bring life to the dead, which is a cornerstone of Islamic eschatology. The Resurrection is a pivotal event that signifies the end of the world and the beginning of eternal life, either in paradise or hell, based on one’s earthly deeds.
References in the Qur’an
Al-Bāʿis̤ is mentioned in several verses in the Qur’an that emphasize God’s ability to resurrect and judge all beings. An example is from Surah Al-Hajj (22:7):
<p>“And the Hour is coming, there is no doubt about it, and Allah will resurrect those who are in the graves.”</p>
Cultural Practices
In Islamic culture, Al-Bāʿis̤ is invoked in prayers and supplications, particularly in contexts involving remembrance of death and the Hereafter. The name serves as a reminder of God’s omnipotence and the transient nature of worldly life.
Books for Further Studies
For a deeper understanding of Al-Bāʿis̤ and the other Asma-ul-Husna, scholars and students might consider the following books:
- “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” by Ghazzali
- “Divine Names: The 99 Healing Names of the One Love” by Rosina-Fawzia al-Rawi
- “Knowledge of God in Classical Sufism: Foundations of Islamic Mystical Theology” by John Renard
Conclusion and Takeaways
Al-Bāʿis̤ (الباعث) serves as a profound reminder of the Day of Resurrection and God’s unmatched power to bring life from death. Understanding this name enriches one’s spiritual perspective and emphasizes key eschatological concepts within Islam.
By reflecting on Al-Bāʿis̤, Muslims are reminded of their mortality, accountability, and the life that awaits beyond this temporal existence.
Conclusion
The name Al-Bāʿis̤ underlines the Islamic faith’s rich theological tapestries centered around life, death, and the hereafter. It encapsulates God’s role as The Awakener and serves as a bedrock for the tenets of resurrection and judgment central to Islamic eschatological beliefs.
Understanding divine names like Al-Bāʿis̤ offers a profound spiritual engagement with the nature of God and encourages believers to live a life in preparation for the ultimate awakening on the Day of Resurrection.
