Hell: Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam

Hell: Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam

Introduction

In Islamic theology, Hell (Arabic: جهنم | Turkish: Cehennem) is a prominent concept that describes a place of torment and punishment in the afterlife. It is most frequently referred to as an-Nār (“the fire”) in the Qur’an and Traditions, but the term Jahannam also appears around 30 times. Islamic texts speak of Hell’s seven divisions, each with its distinct characteristics and inhabitants.

Etymology

• Arabic: جهنم (Jahannam), النار (an-Nār)
• Greek: γεέννα (Gehenna)
• Persian: دوزخ (Dozak͟h)

The Seven Divisions of Hell

Islamic scholars often differentiate Hell into seven distinct levels or portals based on various Qur’anic verses and Hadith. Here are the divisions with their respective descriptions:

1. Jahannam (جهنم)

   • Described as a purgatorial Hell for Muslims, where all Muslims will pass through according to Surah Maryam 19:72.

2. Laz̤ā (لظى)

   • Mentioned in Surah Al-Ma‘ārij 70:15-16, it denotes a blazing fire dragging souls by the scalp.

3. Al-Ḥut̤amah (الحطمة)

   • Defined in Surah Al-Humazah 104:4-9 as a destructive fire, ascending above the hearts of the damned.

4. Sa‘īr (سعير)

   • Found in Surah An-Nisā’ 4:10, describing a flaming fire consuming those who devour orphans’ properties unjustly.

5. Saqar (سقر)

   • Illustrated as a scorching fire for sinners in Surah Al-Muddathir 74:45-48.

6. Al-Jaḥīm (الجحيم)

   • Referenced in Surah Al-Baqarah 2:201 and other places, referring to a gigantic blazing fire for idolaters.

7. Hāwiyah (هاوية)

   • Described in Surah Al-Qāri‘ah 101:8-11 as a bottomless pit, mainly for hypocrites.

Qur’anic Foundations

Several verses in the Qur’an provide vivid descriptions of Hell and its torments. Some noteworthy excerpts include:

Surah Al-Muddathir 74:26-34 “Indeed, he will be thrown into Saqar. And what can make you know what is Saqar? It lets nothing remain and leaves nothing [unburned], Blackening the skins. Over it are nineteen [angels].”

Surah Al-Humazah 104:4-9 “No! He will surely be thrown into the Crusher (al-Ḥut̤amah). And what can make you know what is the Crusher? It is the fire of Allah, [eternally] fueled, which mounts directed at the hearts. Indeed, Hellfire will be closed down upon them In extended columns.”

Hadith Narratives

Hadith literature provides further detailed accounts of the torments in Hell. Prominent collections like those of Al-Bukhari and Muslim recount various states of punishment and suffering. For instance:

Bukhari, Mishkat, Book 23, Chapter 15 “The fire of the world is one part of seventy parts of hellfire. It was said, ‘O Prophet of God! Verily the fire of the world would be sufficient for punishing.’ The Prophet replied, ‘Hell-fire has been made more than the fire of the world by sixty-nine parts, every part of which is like the fire of the world.’”

Comparative Theology

The Islamic depiction of Hell shares certain similarities with descriptions found in Judaism and Zoroastrianism. For instance, both traditions speak of multiple layers or regions of Hell, often guarded by angels subjected to divine justice.

Further Reading

For those interested in a deeper exploration of Islamic eschatology and the concept of Hell, the following books are recommended:

1. “The Hereafter and the Quranic Perspective” by Dr. Muhammad Asim
2. “Islamic Eschatology: Quranic and Hadith Perspectives” by Dr. Gholamali Haddad-Adel
3. “Death, Resurrection and Human Destiny” by Toyeb Al-Lehidan

Takeaways

• Hell in Islam is a multifaceted concept with intricate descriptions and categories.
• The seven divisions of Hell reflect theological attempts to classify the severity and type of punishments based on specific sins.
• Qur’anic verses and Hadith provide detailed and often graphic descriptions meant to admonish and guide believers.
• Inter-religious comparisons reveal a shared ancient tradition of thoughts about the afterlife and divine retribution.

Conclusion

The concept of Hell in Islam underscores a system of divine justice and retribution, emphasizing moral accountability. Understanding these descriptions and categories can provide deeper insights into Islamic eschatology and its calls for ethical and righteous living.

This comprehensive entry should serve as an informative resource on the topic of Hell in Islam for both students and scholars. The provided titles for further reading offer avenues to expand knowledge on Islamic eschatology and theology.