Definition and Significance
The term Karūbīn (كروبين) refers to the Islamic concept of cherubim. Cherubim are a type of angelic beings that hold significant roles both in Islamic eschatology and theology, paralleling their depiction in Judeo-Christian traditions. In Islam, angels are created from light (nūr) and serve various functions, often seen as messengers and servants of Allah.
Etymology
The word “Karūbīn” (كروبين) is derived from the Hebrew word “כְּרוּב” (Kerub) or “כְּרוּבִים” (Kerubîm) in its plural form, which is used in the Bible to describe a high-ranking class of angelic beings. The Arabic form “كروبين” suggests a direct semantic and phonetic borrowing from the Hebrew, indicative of the cultural and historical exchanges in Semitic languages.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: كروبين (Karūbīn)
- Turkish: Kerûplar (Plural form for ‘Cherubs’ although not commonly used in Turkish Islamic texts)
Role and Description
In the Qur’anic exegesis and Islamic tradition, Karūbīn are thought to be guardians of the divine throne (Arsh Allah) and are often associated with knowledge, wisdom, and the spiritual attendance of God. They are lesser-known in popular Islamic culture compared to other angels like Jibril (Gabriel) or Mikail (Michael) but remain integral to the divine hierarchy of angelic beings.
Referenced Verses: The Qur’an does not explicitly mention “Karūbīn” by name, but descriptions of angels around the divine throne indirectly allude to their presence.
Comparisons in Other Traditions
Karūbīn are conceptually comparable to the cherubim in Judeo-Christian traditions. In Christianity, cherubim are often depicted as protectors of the Garden of Eden and as attendants to God’s throne, similar to their Islamic counterparts.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Light of the Angels: Themes and Variations in Islamic Angelology” by Tafseer Ahmed.
- “Angels in Islam: Reflections on the Divine Agents” by Carole Hillenbrand.
- “The Angels and Their Mission: According to Islamic Tradition and Muslim Spirituality” by Chad R. Moreira.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Takeaways:
- Karūbīn in Islam holds a similar place to cherubim in Judaism and Christianity, symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and the divine guardianship.
- The term Karūbīn reflects historical linguistics and shared theological traditions among Abrahamic faiths.
- Islamic tradition presents angels from a viewpoint emphasizing their roles as divine servants acting according to the will of Allah.
Conclusion: Understanding Karūbīn within Islamic theology offers insight into the intricate and rich tapestry of angelology in Islam. It highlights not only the conceptual overlaps among the Abrahamic faiths but also the unique elements that Islamic tradition contributes to the broader understanding of these celestial beings.
By examining terms like Karūbīn, one deepens their appreciation for the lofty, often unseen, world of angelic beings that play crucial roles in the spiritual ethos of Islam.
