Resurrection in Islam (القيامة - Al-Qiyama)
Resurrection—Resurrection, known in Arabic as Al-Qiyama (القيامة), signifies the reawakening of human beings for the final judgment in Islamic theology. Contrary to the belief of pre-Islamic Arabs who considered physical death as final, the Qur’an affirms that on the Day of Resurrection, all persons will be brought back to life and must account for how they have lived their lives. This eschatological event functions as a critical tenet in Islamic belief, emphasizing accountability and moral integrity.
Etymology and Translation (قام - Qama)
The term Al-Qiyama is derived from the Arabic root qāma (قام), which means “to rise” or “to stand up.” In Turkish, the term for resurrection is “Diriliş.”
Eschatological Events
A series of dramatic and portentous signs are believed to signal the coming of the Day of Resurrection. This includes cosmic alterations, a sound similar to a colossal trumpet called the Sur reverberated by the Angel Israfil (Raphael), causing a universal tremor. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Muhammad will be the first to be resurrected, setting in motion the divine orchestration of resurrection.
Orthodox Beliefs vs. Modern Interpretations
Orthodox Islam consistently maintains the belief in bodily resurrection, envisioning a physical reconstitution of individuals who will then face divine judgment. However, some modern commentators offer an interpretative divergence, contemplating the final reckoning as having potential spiritual dimensions rather than just physical.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Day of Resurrection” by Imran Hosein dives into both classical and contemporary interpretations of resurrection.
- “The Islamic View of Major Eschatological Signs and Events” by Sayyid Muhammad Hussein Tabataba’i provides a detailed breakdown of events expected to precede resurrection.
- “The Afterlife: Muslim Beliefs and Practices” by Jonathan E. Brockopp illuminates Qur’anic perspectives and post-Qur’anic theological developments concerning resurrection and judgment.
Takeaways
- Resurrection in Islam underscores moral accountability and ethics.
- Contrary to Pre-Islamic Beliefs: Resurrection emphasizes that physical death isn’t the end, but a transition.
- Orthodox View insists on Bodily Resurrection, indicating a physical reconstitution of persons.
- Modern Perspectives: Explore spiritual dimensions of the final reckoning alongside or instead of the physical.
Conclusion
Resurrection (Al-Qiyama) is a fundamental concept in Islam revolving around the idea of accountability and moral rectitude, culminating in a final divine judgment post-resurrection which has both physical and spiritual potential interpretations, enriching Islamic eschatology.
