Kirāmun Kātibūn (كِرَامًا كَاتِبِين)
Definition and Roles
Kirāmun Kātibūn (كِرَامًا كَاتِبِين), literally translated as “illustrious writers,” are the two recording angels in Islamic theology. Each person is accompanied by these angels who record their deeds throughout their life. One angel stands on the right to record good deeds, while the other stands on the left to record evil deeds.
Qur’anic Reference
The concept of Kirāmun Kātibūn is mentioned in the Qur’ān in Surah Al-Infitār (82:10-12):
<p>“Yet truly there are guardians over you, illustrious recorders (kirāman kātibīn), cognizant of your actions.”</p>
Etymology
The Arabic term Kirāmun Kātibūn is composed of two words:
- Kirāmun (كِرَامًا): Meaning “illustrious” or “noble.”
- Kātibūn (كَاتِبِين): Meaning “writers” or “recorders.”
The Turkish translation for Kirāmun Kātibūn is Üstün Yazıcılar.
Hadith and Cultural Practices
According to Hadith literature, the Prophet Muhammad enjoined his followers to show respect by not spitting in front or to the right side, where the angel recording good deeds stands. Instead, he recommended spitting to the left where the angel recording bad deeds stands.
<p>“<em>No, you should not spit in front of you, nor to your right-hand side, for there is an angel beside your right-hand side, but you can spit to your left-hand side or under your foot and then cover it.</em>”<br> <em>(Mishkāt al-Maṣābīḥ, Book IV, Chapter VIII, Part 1)</em></p>
The Concept of Muʿaqqibāt
These angels are believed to be changed every day, hence another term used for them is Muʿaqqibāt (مُعَقِّبَات), or those who succeed each other.
Significance in Daily Life
The belief in Kirāmun Kātibūn inculcates a sense of accountability and moral responsibility among Muslims, knowing that their actions are continuously recorded.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- *“Angels in Islam: Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti’s al-Haba’ik fi Akhbar al-Mala’ik” by Patrick Hughes
- *“Understanding Angels in Islam” by Asma Afsaruddin
- *“The Concept of Belief in the Qur’an: A Semantic Analysis of Īmān and Islām” by Toshihiko Izutsu
Takeaways and Conclusion
The concept of Kirāmun Kātibūn serves as a constant reminder that every action, whether good or bad, is observed and recorded. This awareness encourages ethical behavior and conscientious living, underscoring the importance of personal accountability in Islam.
By understanding the roles and significance of these illustrious recorders, one gains deeper insight into the ethical and theological framework of Islamic belief. The presence of Kirāmun Kātibūn underlines the omnipresence of divine observation and the meticulous recording of human actions, reinforcing the moral principles central to leading a devout life.
