✨ Cherubim: The Celestial Guardians in Islamic Thought
Definition:
Cherubim, or Karūbīn (كَرُوبِين) in Arabic, refer to a high-ranking class of angels in Islamic tradition. The term Karūbīn is derived from the Hebrew כְּרוּבִים (Kerubim) and means “those who are near.” These angels are described as surrounding the throne of God, singing praises, and asking forgiveness for believers.
Etymology:
The term Karūbīn traces its roots to the Hebrew word כְּרוּבִים (kerubim), itself of Akkadian origin, where “karibu” signifies beings that intercede for humanity and advise gods. In Arabic, كَرُوبِي (karūbī) is singular, and كَرُوبِين (karūbīn) is the plural form.
Background:
Cherubim play an integral role in Islamic cosmology and theology. According to Qurʾānic text, specifically Surah Ghafir (40:70), these angels celebrate God’s praises, declare His omnipotence, and intercede for believers. Al-Baiẓāwī, a prominent medieval Qur’anic commentator, emphasizes their high rank and proximity to the divine, considering them as the first-created angels.
Ḥusain’s Tafsir adds that there are 70,000 ranks of Cherubim encircling God’s throne. This indicates their significant number and supreme role in celestial hierarchy.
Cultural Differences and Similarities:
Across various religious traditions, the Cherubim are depicted with unique attributes and responsibilities:
- Judaism: Cherubim are often seen as guardians of holy places and divine intermediaries.
- Christianity: Mostly aligned with these functions, they are depicted as holding significant spiritual and protective roles.
- Islam: Predominantly, Cherubim are portrayed as beings close to God’s throne, involved in the cosmic administration and intercession.
Synonyms:
- Angels (Malāʾikah)
- Celestial Beings
- Divine Messengers
Antonyms:
- Shayatin (Demons)
- Disbelievers
Related Terms with Definitions:
- Malāʾikah: The general term for angels in Islam, spiritual beings created from light who act as God’s messengers.
- Jibril (Gabriel): An archangel who acts as a messenger to the prophets, delivering God’s revelations.
- Israfil: The angel responsible for blowing the trumpet on the Day of Judgment.
Exciting Facts:
- Cherubim in Islamic traditions are particularly revered for their closeness to God, often invoking a sense of awe among believers.
- Their intercessory roles are highlighted during prayers, where believers seek their intervention for forgiveness and divine mercy.
Quotations:
- “Those around it (the throne of God) celebrate the praise of their Lord, and believe in Him, and ask pardon for those who believe.” — Qurʼān, Surah Ghafir (40:70)
References and Suggested Literature:
- Al-Baiẓāwī’s Tafsir
- Tafsīru ʾl-Ḥusain
- “Angels in Islam: Reflections and Insights” by Yasir Qadhi
- “Divine Creatures: Angels in Christian, Jewish, and Islamic Traditions” by Colleen McDannell
- “The World of Angels” by Harun Yahya
Quizzes:
By understanding the profound place of Cherubim (Karūbīn) in Islam, we uncover layers of spirituality and the divine interconnection between heaven and earth. Their roles, rich in significance, remind us of the unseen dimensions that influence our faith and lives continually.
Continue exploring, reflecting, and growing in knowledge of the celestial mysteries that bind us to the divine plan.
Hassan Al-Razi, October 10th, 2023
“Every glance at the heavens reminds us of the myriad creations that lie beyond our understanding, urging us to seek deeper truths.”
