Definition, Etymology, and Significance of Yaumu ʾt-Talāq (يوم التلاق)
Definition
Yaumu ʾt-Talāq (يوم التلاق), also known as the Day of Meeting, refers to the Day of Judgment in Islamic eschatology. This is the day when all human beings will be resurrected and held accountable for their deeds. It is a pivotal concept in Islamic theology and signifies the ultimate moment of divine justice.
Etymology
The term Yaumu ʾt-Talāq (يوم التلاق) is derived from Arabic:
- Yaum (يوم) meaning “day”
- al-Talāq (التلاق) meaning “meeting” or “encounter”
The combined term conveys the idea of a unique day when all creation will meet their Creator for final judgment.
Qur’anic References
The term “Yaumu ʾt-Talāq” is mentioned specifically in the Qur’an in Sūrah Ghāfir (40:15):
<p>“He throws the Spirit by His bidding upon whom He will of His servants, to give warning of the Day of Meeting.”</p>
This verse emphasizes the role of divine revelation in warning humanity about the Day of Judgment, highlighting the gravity and importance of the event.
Theological Implications
In Islamic theology, Yaumu ʾt-Talāq is central to the concept of afterlife and divine justice:
- Accountability: Muslims believe that on this day, every individual will be judged based on their deeds and actions during their earthly life.
- Resurrection: It marks the resurrection of all the dead.
- Divine Justice: Ultimate justice will be administered by Allah, based on the criteria of righteousness outlined in the Qur’an and Hadith.
Translations
- Arabic: يوم التلاق
- Turkish: Buluşma Günü
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Hereafter: Ma’ad – Islamic Doctrines” by Ayatullah Ja’far Subhani
- “Islamic Eschatology: An Introduction” by Damian Howard
- “The Last Day: Islamic Eschatology” by Muhammad Ali Ibn Zubair
Takeaways
- Yaumu ʾt-Talāq underscores the concept of the Day of Judgment.
- It is a day of ultimate reckoning, accountability, and divine justice.
- Qur’anic verse Sūrah Ghāfir (40:15) alludes to its significance and the role of revelation in warning humanity about it.
Conclusion
The belief in Yaumu ʾt-Talāq (يوم التلاق) reinforces the moral framework within which Muslims live their lives, aware of the eventual divine judgment. It serves as a reminder of the eschatological dimensions of human existence and the moral and ethical responsibilities one holds.
Understanding Yaumu ʾt-Talāq is essential for grasping the comprehensive view of life and afterlife in Islam, thereby motivating believers to adhere to the ethical teachings and divine commandments laid out in the Qur’an and Hadith.
