Lazā (لَظَى)
Definition and Etymology
Lazā (لَظَى) is an Arabic term used to describe “fire” or “flame.” The word specifically refers to a stage or division of Hell in Islamic eschatology.
Etymology
The root of the word Lazā (لَظَى) is derived from the Arabic triliteral root لظى (l-ẓā-y) which signifies burning intensely or flaming.
Qur’anic Context
Lazā is mentioned in the Qur’an in Surah Al-Maʿārij (Sūrah 70: Ayah 15):
<p>“كَلَّا إِنَّهَا لَظَىٰ”<br> “Nay! Verily, it is Laza (a blazing flame).”</p>
Theological Significance
Lazā represents a specific aspect of Hell in Islamic teachings.
Commentary by Al-Bag͟hawī
According to the exegetical work of Al-Bag͟hawī, Lazā is noted as:
- A distinctive division of Hell
- Reserved specifically for Christians who did not believe in Prophet Muhammad as the last messenger.
[HELL]
This term is intricately linked to Islamic concepts of retribution and divine justice. Lazā is part of the broader Islamic eschatological framework that details the various levels and conditions of Hell (Jahannam جهنم).
Recommended Books for Further Studies
- “Tafsir al-Baghawi” by Husayn ibn Mas’ud Al-Bag͟hawī – An important source for understanding Qur’anic commentary.
- “Eschatology in the Quran” by Jane Dammen McAuliffe – Offers comprehensive analysis on the themes of the afterlife in Qur’anic scripture.
- “The Vision of Islam” by Sachiko Murata and William Chittick – A broader text that contextualizes various stages of the afterlife in Islamic teaching.
Takeaways
- Lazā (لَظَى) encapsulates the notion of blazing flames, an aspect of Hell in Islamic doctrine.
- Its usage is particularly noted within the Qur’an in a context of severe divine punishment.
- Scholarly commentaries such as those by Al-Bag͟hawī help elucidate its specific associations, like the particular sections of Hell for non-believers from different religious communities.
Conclusion
The concept of Lazā adds depth to the Islamic understanding of eschatology, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of divine justice in the afterlife. The term and its implications reinforce the severe consequences outlined in Islamic teachings for unbelief and the rejection of prophetic messages.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
Arabic: لظى
Turkish: Alev (ateş, cehennem ateşi)
