Resignation (Islām)
Definition and Significance
In Islam, the term Islam itself means a state or condition in which a believer becomes “resigned” to the will of God. A “Muslim” is one who is “resigned” in this context. This notion of resignation is central to Islamic faith and practice, symbolizing submission and acceptance of God’s will.
Etymology and Terms
- Islām (الإسلام): From the Arabic root “س-ل-م” (s-l-m), meaning “to submit” or “to surrender.”
- Ṣabr (صبر): Meaning “patience” or “endurance.” It is frequently mentioned in the Qurʾān and carries the concept of enduring trials with patience and faith.
- Taslīm (تسليم): Literally means “submission.” It involves placing oneself willingly under God’s commands.
- Riẓāʾ (رضا): Means being pleased with whatever God decrees, accepting divine will with satisfaction.
Qur’anic References
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Ṣabr: In Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:156), it is mentioned: “Give good tidings to the patient, who when there falls on them a calamity, say, ‘Verily we are God’s and verily to Him do we return.’”
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Taslīm: In Sūrah An-Nisāʾ (4:65), it states: “They submit with submission (taslīm).”
Interpretations:
- The Kitābu ʾt-Taʿrīfāt interprets Taslīm as placing one’s neck under God’s commands, expressing complete submission and yielding to divine authority.
- The Akhlāq-i-Jalālī explains Taslīm as acquiescing in and accepting God’s commands with contentment, even if they go against personal inclinations.
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Riẓāʾ: This word appears less frequently but is potent in its implication, signifying acceptance and contentment with God’s determinations, reflecting profound spiritual maturity.
Recommended Books for Further Studies
- “The Qur’an” by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem - A contemporary translation with detailed explanations on key terms.
- “Patience and Gratitude” by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - A comprehensive discussion on Ṣabr.
- “The Concept of Predestination in Islam and Christianity” by I. Krstić - Comparative interpretational insights into divine decree (Riẓāʾ).
Takeaways and Conclusion
- Resignation in Islam is a multifaceted concept involving submission, patience, and acceptance of divine will.
- Words like Ṣabr, Taslīm, and Riẓāʾ encapsulate different dimensions of this resignation, emphasizing the virtues of patience, submission, and satisfaction.
- Understanding these concepts cultivates deeper insight into Islamic spirituality and the believer’s relationship with God.
Resignation is not seen as passive surrender but as an active component of faith, embodying the Muslim’s trust and reliance on God. It is through resignation that Muslims find peace and strength, accepting life’s trials as part of divine wisdom and plan.
