Yaumu ʾt-Taghābun (يوم التغابن)
Definition
Yaumu ʾt-Taghābun (يوم التغابن) translates to the “Day of Mutual Deceit” or “Day of Dispossession.” This term is used to describe the Day of Judgment, specifically mentioned in Surah At-Taghābun (Sūrah 64:9) in the Qur’an. It signifies a day when the true nature of people’s deeds and the ultimate consequences of their actions are revealed.
Etymology
The Arabic term يوم التغابن is composed of two parts:
- Yawm (يوم): meaning “day.”
- Taghābun (التغابن): derived from the root gh-b-n (غ-ب-ن), which means to be deceived or to lose out. In this context, it refers to the mutual feeling of loss or deceit when the reality of one’s actions is ultimately uncovered on the Day of Judgment.
In Turkish, the term is equivalent to Yevm-i Taghâbun.
Qur’anic Reference
Sūrah At-Taghābun (Sūrah 64:9) states:
<p>“On the Day He will gather you for the Day of Gathering, that will be the Day of Mutual Dispossession…”</p>
Exegesis
Prominent Islamic scholar Al-Baiẓāwī elaborates on the implications of Yaumu ʾt-Taghābun:
<p>“Both the righteous and the wicked will experience moments of deception, as their earthly roles are reversed—the wicked will face their punishment while the righteous revel in bliss.”</p>
Significance in Islamic Eschatology
Yaumu ʾt-Taghābun is pivotal in Islamic eschatology as it reveals:
- Divine Justice: It underscores God’s ultimate justice, where every deed is accounted for.
- Revelation of Truth: The real worth and consequences of human actions are exposed.
- Moral Rectification: Serves as a warning and an opportunity for moral rectitude for the believers.
Books for Further Study
- Tafsir al-Jalalayn by Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti
- The Study Quran edited by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- Esoteric Islam by Sayyed Hussain Nasr
Takeaways
- Yaumu ʾt-Taghābun stresses accountability and moral integrity.
- It highlights the importance of righteous living and the transient nature of worldly deception.
- The concept fosters spiritual consciousness and preparation for the afterlife.
Conclusion
Yaumu ʾt-Taghābun is a term laden with eschatological and moral significance. It acts as a reminder of the temporal nature of worldly gains and the ultimate divine justice that reveals the true essence of human deeds.
