Qiyām

Qiyām (قيام)

Definition and Significance

The term Qiyām (Arabic: قيام‎, Turkish: Kıyam) literally means “Standing.” Qiyām encompasses various aspects within Islamic practice and theology, which include:

1. Standing in Prayer:

   • Qiyām refers to the standing position in the Muslim prayers (Ṣalāt) during which certain supplications and chapters from the Qurʾān are recited. This phase of the prayer involves:
     • Subḥān: Praising the transcendence of Allah.
     • Taʿawwuẕ: Seeking protection from evil.
     • Tasmiyah: Saying “Bismillāh” (In the name of Allah).
     • Fātiḥah: Reciting Al-Fātiḥah, the opening chapter of the Qurʾān.
     • Recitation of additional portions or surahs of the Qurʾān.

2. Eschatological Context:

   • Yaumu ʾl-Qiyām or Yaumu ʾl-Qiyāmah refers to the Day of Judgment, a fundamental belief in Islamic eschatology when all individuals will be resurrected and held accountable for their deeds.

Etymology and Translations

• Etymology: The word Qiyām is derived from the Arabic root “ق و م” (q-w-m), which conveys meanings related to standing, rising, or establishing.
• Arabic: قيام‎
• Turkish: Kıyam

Further Studies

For a deeper understanding of Qiyām and its implications in both ritualistic practice and theological concepts, the following books are suggested:

1. “Prayer in Islamic Thought and Practice” by Marion Holmes Katz
2. “The Hereafter (Al-Akhirah) in Light of The Holy Qur’an and Sunnah” by Umar Sulaiman al-Ashqar
3. “The Oxford Dictionary of Islam” by John L. Esposito
4. “The Day of Resurrection” by Dr. Muhammad al-Bahree

Takeaways

• Qiyām in ṣalāt signifies the importance of physical posture and spiritual focus, emphasizing the recitation of sacred texts.
• The term also signifies a key moment in Islamic eschatology, highlighting the concept of resurrection and final judgment.

Conclusion

Qiyām reflects the intertwined nature of physical practice and spiritual belief in Islam. Through its use in daily prayers and its eschatological implications, it underscores the importance of rituals, doctrinal beliefs, and the accountability that forms the core of Islamic theological thought.

This entry not only explains the different uses of the term Qiyām but also provides context, translations, etymology, further reading suggestions, and key takeaways, making it an insightful reference for understanding this significant Islamic concept.