The Hour (As-Sāʿah)

The Hour (As-Sāʿah) in Islam

Etymology and Translations

• Etymology: The term “The Hour” is derived from the Arabic word as-Sāʿah (الساعة), which literally means “the hour” or “the moment.” This term is deeply anchored in Islamic eschatology, referring particularly to the Day of Judgment, when all human beings will be held accountable for their actions.

• Arabic: الساعة‎ (as-Sāʿah)

• Turkish: Kıyamet Saati

Qur’anic References to The Hour

The term “The Hour” appears in various contexts within the Qurʾān, highlighting its urgency and inevitability. The following verses address the imminence and gravity of this momentous event:

• Sūrah 6:31: “When the hour comes suddenly upon them.” (Arabic: عليهم تأتي الساعة فجأة )
• Sūrah 7:186: “They will ask you about the hour for what time it is fixed.” (Arabic: يسألونك عن الساعة أيان مرسىها )
• Sūrah 15:85: “Verily the hour is surely coming.” (Arabic: إن الساعة لآتية )
• Sūrah 16:79: “Nor is the matter of the hour aught but as the twinkling of an eye, or nigher still.” (Arabic: وما أمر الساعة إلا كلمح البصر أو هو أقرب )
• Sūrah 22:1: “Verily the earthquake of the hour is a mighty thing.” (Arabic: إن زلزلة الساعة شيء عظيم )
• Sūrah 54:46: “Nay the hour is their promised time! and the hour is most severe and bitter.” (Arabic: بل الساعة موعدهم والساعة أدهى وأمر )

Significance in Islamic Eschatology

• Day of Judgment: The Hour signifies the Day of Judgment (Yawm al-Qiyāmah), a day when all individuals will be resurrected and held accountable for their deeds.
• Urgency and Imminence: The Qurʾān often stresses the suddenness with which The Hour will strike, serving as a divine warning to live a life of righteousness and piety.
• Symbol of Accountability: It reinforces the concept of moral and ethical accountability, urging Muslims to adhere to the teachings of Islam conscientiously.

Related Concepts

• Qiyāmah (قيامة): Refers to the Resurrection Day, synonymous with the Day of Judgment.
• Akhirah (آخرة): The Hereafter or life after death.
• Ḥisāb (حساب): The accountability and reckoning of one’s deeds.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

1. “The Vision of Islam” by Sachiko Murata and William Chittick
2. “Islamic Eschatology” by Ibn Kathir
3. “The End of the World” by Muhammad al-Areefi
4. “The Last Day” by The Ibn Majah Collection

Takeaways and Conclusion

• The Hour (As-Sāʿah) is a significant concept in Islamic eschatology, symbolizing the forthcoming Day of Judgment.
• The Qurʾān highlights the sudden and inevitable occurrence of The Hour, urging individuals to lead a life of morality.
• Understanding this concept fosters a deeper comprehension of Islamic beliefs surrounding the afterlife and divine justice.

Conclusion

The Hour, or As-Sāʿah, is a pivotal element in Islamic eschatology. Its frequent mention in the Qurʾān serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims about the transient nature of life and the certainty of divine judgment. Through a deeper exploration of its meaning and implications, one can gain a more enriched understanding of Islamic theology and moral accountability.