Resurrection in Islam
Definition and Etymology
Resurrection in the Islamic context refers to the belief in “al-Yaumu al-Akhir” (اليوم الاخر), also known as “The Last Day.” This belief is a key component of Islamic eschatology, emphasizing the day when all beings will be resurrected for judgment. The Arabic terms for this pivotal concept include:
- Yaumu al-Qiyamah (يوم القيامة) – “Day of Standing Up”
- Yaumu al-Fasl (يوم الفصل) – “Day of Separation”
- Yaumu al-Hisab (يوم الحساب) – “Day of Reckoning”
- Yaumu al-Ba’th (يوم البعث) – “Day of Awakening”
- Yaumu ad-Din (يوم الدين) – “Day of Judgment”
- Al-Yaumu al-Muhiit (اليوم المحيط) – “The Encompassing Day”
- As-Saa’ah (الساعة) – “The Hour”
Qur’anic References and Descriptions
The Qur’an offers vivid depictions of the Last Day through various surahs:
Surah Al-Qiyamah (75):1-40
Detailed descriptions of the Resurrection and the signs leading up to it, highlighting the inevitable coming of the Day.
Surah At-Takwir (81):1-19
Portrays cosmic events that signal the end times, such as the folding of the sun, falling of stars, and the mountains becoming weightless.
Surah Al-Infitar (82):1-19
Discusses the cleaving of the sky, the scattering stars, and the seas becoming united, emphasizing the transparency of deeds on that Day.
Surah Al-Mutaffifin (83):4-20
Describes the reckoning by detailing the characteristics of the wicked (in Sijjin) and the righteous (in ‘Illiyun).
Surah Al-Inshiqaq (84):1-19
Mentions the splitting of the heavens and stretching of the earth, leading to the distribution of the Books of Deeds.
Islamic Traditions and Beliefs
Belief in resurrection is deeply rooted and elaborately explained in Islamic traditions and texts, such as the Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. The signs of the Last Day are categorized into “lesser signs” (Ishaaratu as-Sa’ah) and “greater signs” (Aalamat as-Sa’ah).
Lesser Signs
- Decay of faith.
- Advancing of unworthy individuals to positions of power.
- Unjust wars and seditions.
- General moral decay.
- Natural disasters and anomalies.
Greater Signs
- Rising of the Sun from the west.
- Emergence of the Beasts of the Earth (Dabba).
- Appearance of the false messiah (Dajjal).
- Return of Jesus (Isa).
- Liberation of Gog and Magog (Yajuj and Majuj).
Theological Implications
The Resurrection is the culmination of God’s justice. It emphasizes moral accountability and the balance of deeds. The concept reinforces the transient nature of worldly life and the permanence of the hereafter.
Books for Further Study
- “Resurrection and the End of Time in Islam” by Christian Lange.
- “The End of the World and the Signs of the Hour” by Muhammad al-Arifi.
- “Islamic Eschatology: A Commentary on the Qur’anic Verses” by Ibn Kathir.
Key Takeaways and Conclusion
- Resurrection in Islam is a fundamental belief, representing the final judgment and divine justice.
- Qur’anic imagery powerfully conveys the physical and metaphysical transformations accompanying the Last Day.
- Traditions provide a comprehensive account of minor and major signs preceding Resurrection.
Conclusion: The belief in Resurrection underscores the significance of moral integrity, adherence to divine teachings, and the ultimate accountability before God, profoundly shaping the ethical framework of a Muslim’s life.
This entry should offer a thorough understanding of Resurrection and its theological underpinnings in Islam, providing valuable context and references for deeper study and reflection.
