KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL (كتاب الأعمال)
Definition
KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL (كتاب الأعمال) refers to the “Book of Deeds” in Islamic religious literature. It is a heavenly record which, according to Islamic beliefs, inscribes all human actions, both good and bad, that an individual performs throughout their lifetime. On the Day of Judgment, this record will be presented to each person as a testament of their earthly actions.
Etymology
The term is derived from Arabic:
- Kitāb (كتاب) meaning “book”.
- Aʿmāl (أعمال) meaning “deeds” or “actions”.
The composite term thus translates to ‘The Book of Deeds.’
Arabic Translation
- كتاب (Kitāb) - Book
- الأعمال (Aʿmāl) - Deeds
Equivalent Term in Turkish
- Ameller Kitabı - Book of Deeds
Theological Significance
In Islamic belief, every person is accountable for their actions, and KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL serves as an enduring record. It symbolizes the comprehensive and divine nature of God’s knowledge and justice. The Qur’an mentions several times that angels (known as Kiraman Katibin) are designated to record every good and bad deed a person commits.
Qur’anic References
Several verses in the Qur’an refer to the concept of the Book of Deeds:
- Surah Al-Kahf (18:49): “And the Book (of deeds) will be placed (open), and you will see the criminals fearful of that within it, and they will say, ‘Oh, woe to us! What is this book that leaves nothing small or great except that it has enumerated it?’”
Cultural and Ethical Implications
KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL highlights the ethical dimension in Islamic practice, underlining the importance of moral accountability and continuous self-assessment. Knowledge of this record is intended to cultivate a sense of self-discipline, prompting adherents to perform good deeds and avoid sins.
Further Reading
For an in-depth study of KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL and the broader context of Islamic eschatology, consider the following books:
- “Death and the Afterlife in Islam” by Jane Idleman Smith and Yvonne Yazbeck Haddad
- “The Islamic Understanding of Death and Resurrection” by Jane Idleman Smith and Yvonne Yazbeck Haddad
- “The Hereafter: An Introduction to Islamic Eschatology” by Muhammad Al-Jibaly
Takeaways
- KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL (كتاب الأعمال) is the Book of Deeds in Islamic belief.
- It serves as a comprehensive record of an individual’s actions.
- It underscores the values of moral accountability and continuous self-assessment in Islam.
- The concept is deeply rooted in the Qur’an and forms an essential part of Islamic eschatology.
Conclusion
The understanding of KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL provides insight into the ethical and theological fabric of Islam. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining righteous conduct and fear of divine accountability, reinforcing the principle that every action carried out on earth has significant repercussions in the hereafter. Integrating this understanding into everyday life can help enhance moral clarity and responsibility among Muslims.
By compiling this entry, we aim to offer a comprehensive overview of KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL and its enduring significance within the Islamic tradition.
