Qurbu ʾs-Sāʿah (قرب الساعة)

Qurbu ʾs-Sāʿah (قرب الساعة) in Islam

Definition

Qurbu ʾs-Sāʿah (قرب الساعة), translated as “an hour which is near,” refers to the concepts of the Day of Resurrection and Judgment within Islamic belief. This term is frequently associated with the end times and the ultimate reckoning, where every individual will be judged by Allah for their deeds in the world.

Etymology

• Qurbu (قرب): This Arabic word means “nearness” or “approach.”
• as-Sāʿah (الساعة): This term translates to “the hour” or “the time,” specifically referring to a critical point in time, often the Day of Judgment.

Arabic and Turkish Translations

• Arabic: قرب الساعة‎
• Turkish: Saatin yakınlığı or Kıyamet saati

Significance in Islam

The concept of Qurbu ʾs-Sāʿah holds profound theological and eschatological significance in Islam. It represents the inevitable approach of the Day of Judgment, a time when life on Earth will cease, and every soul will stand before Allah to be judged.

Key Components

1. Judgment Day:

   • The belief is that on this day, all human beings will be resurrected from their graves to account for their deeds.
   • Those who have led righteous lives according to Islamic teachings will be rewarded, while those who have sinned will face punishment.

2. Moral Responsibility:

   • The anticipation of Qurbu ʾs-Sāʿah encourages Muslims to live ethically and piously.
   • Emphasizes the transient nature of worldly life and the eternal significance of the hereafter.

3. Prophetic Traditions:

   • Various hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) provide signs of the approaching hour, guiding Muslims on what to expect and how to prepare for it.
   • These signs are categorized into minor and major signs, with major signs signaling the imminent arrival of the hour.

Books for Further Studies

1. “The End of the World: Signs of the Hour Major and Minor” by Dr. Muhammad al-‘Areefi
2. “Islamic Eschatology: A Comparative Analysis of the Eschatological Teachings in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam” by Imran Nazar Hosein
3. “The Hereafter (Ma’ad)” by Ayatollah Dastghaib Shirazi
4. “Signs Before the Day of Judgement” by Ibn Kathir

Takeaways and Conclusion

Qurbu ʾs-Sāʿah (قرب الساعة) serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the everlasting consequences of one’s actions according to Islamic belief. The anticipation of this hour emphasizes moral conduct and spiritual readiness, as Muslims should always be prepared for the final judgment. Understanding and reflecting upon this concept can profoundly influence a Muslim’s daily life, fostering a sense of responsibility and piety.

The concept urges Muslims to stay vigilant and upright, ensuring that their actions align with the teachings of Islam to achieve salvation in the hereafter. The in-depth study of Qurbu ʾs-Sāʿah not only deepens one’s faith but also fortifies their moral compass, guiding them towards a life of virtue.