Az-Zilzāl (الزلزال)
Definition and Context
Az-Zilzāl (الزلزال), translated as “The Earthquake,” is the title of the 99th chapter (Sūrah) of the Qur’an. The Surah consists of 8 verses (ayah) and is a Makkiya (Meccan) surah. It begins with powerful and vivid imagery: “When the earth is shaken with its [final] earthquake.” This Sūrah addresses themes of the Day of Judgment, invoking dramatic descriptions of the earth’s upheaval and the final reckoning.
Etymology
- Arabic: الزلزال (Az-Zilzāl)
- Root: Derived from the Arabic root “z-l-z-l” (زلزل), which means to quake or shake.
- Turkish: The term remains the same, Az-Zilzal, as it directly references the Arabic word used in the Qur’an.
Significant Verses
- Ayah 1: “When the earth is shaken with its [final] earthquake.”
- Ayah 2: “And the earth discharges its burdens.”
- Ayah 4: “That Day, it will report its news.”
Theological Importance
Az-Zilzāl serves as a profound reminder of the transient nature of the worldly life and the certainty of the Day of Judgment. This Surah is often recited to underscore themes of accountability, divine justice, and the ultimate truth as revealed in the Qur’an.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Qur’an: A New Translation” by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem
- Provides a contemporary translation that retains the spiritual essence of the original text.
- “Introduction to the Qur’an” by M. A. Draz
- Offers insights into the structure, themes, and historical context of the Qur’an.
- “Commentary on the Holy Qur’an” by Abdulla Yusuf Ali
- An extensive commentary that sheds light on various aspects of the Surahs, including Az-Zilzāl.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Az-Zilzāl emphasizes the significance of the Day of Judgment and serves as a reminder of the ultimate accountability every soul will face. It uses the metaphor of an apocalyptic earthquake to illustrate the dramatic consequences of that day. Understanding this Surah enhances one’s comprehension of Islamic eschatology and underscores the importance of living a life in remembrance of and preparation for the Hereafter.
By studying Az-Zilzāl, believers gain deeper insight into the moral and spiritual teachings of the Qur’an, reinforcing the transient nature of earthly life and the assurance of divine justice.
