Nakīr (نكير)
Nakīr (Arabic: نَكِير) is an essential concept in Islamic eschatology, embodying one of the angels whose primary role is to interrogate the deceased in the grave. Alongside Munkar, another angel, Nakīr’s function plays a significant part in the transition between life and the afterlife according to Islamic traditions.
Etymology
The term “Nakīr” (نكير) derives from the Arabic root ن-ك-ر (n-k-r) which connotes denial or disapproval. The term is closely linked to the roles that Nakīr and Munkar perform, as they are known to question the faith and deeds of the deceased, thereby casting a critical eye on one’s lifetime actions.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: نَكِير (Nakīr)
- Turkish: Nekir
Significance in Islamic Beliefs
In Islamic tradition, Nakīr, along with Munkar, are considered to be the angels responsible for testing the faith (īmān) of the deceased in their graves. This belief underscores the importance of a righteous life and adherence to Islamic commandments.
Role and Responsibilities
Upon burial, Islamic doctrine states that the angels Nakīr and Munkar visit the deceased to ask three fundamental questions:
- Who is your Lord?
- What is your religion?
- Who is your Prophet?
Answering these questions correctly, with sincere faith, ensures the deceased a peaceful experience in the grave and success in the Hereafter. Failing to answer or providing incorrect responses can result in hardships in the grave, as detailed in various Islamic texts.
Theological Context
The concept of Nakīr is deeply embedded in the larger Islamic eschatological framework, which includes:
- Barzakh: The interim period between death and the Day of Judgment.
- Al-Qiyāmah: The Day of Resurrection.
- Jannah and Jahannam: Islamic concepts of Heaven and Hell.
These beliefs are derived from the Quran and Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), shaping a comprehensive view of what awaits believers after death.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- ‘The Soul’s Journey After Death: An Abridgment of Ibn al-Qayyim’s Kitāb ar-Rūh’ by Imam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah.
- ‘Islamic Eschatology: The Role of the Prophet Muhammad and His Companions’ by Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-Qurtubi.
- ‘The Grave: Knowing what will happen to us, has an astonishingly beneficial impact on our lives’ by Shaikh Muhammad bin Abdul Wahab.
Takeaways
- Nakīr (نكير) is one of the two angels responsible for interrogating the deceased in Islamic tradition.
- Nakīr’s questioning is intended to evaluate the deceased’s faith and adherence to Islamic principles.
- Understanding the role of Nakīr encourages Muslims to lead a life in accordance with the teachings of Islam to secure peace in the Hereafter.
Conclusion
The concept of Nakīr serves as a reminder of the significance of maintaining strong faith and virtuous deeds in one’s life. It highlights a critical aspect of the Islamic eschatological narrative that shapes the moral and spiritual outlook of Muslim believers.
By delving deeper into the Islamic teachings and texts surrounding Nakīr, one can gain comprehensive insights into the Islamic perspective of life, death, and what lies beyond.
