Comprehensive Definition
In Islamic eschatology, the concept of FUTURE LIFE pertains to the notion of the continued existence of the soul after physical death. Central to the faith, this doctrine stipulates that the soul transcends earthly existence to experience a subsequent, eternal life. This life is often categorized by the terms Dāru ’l-Ak͟hirat (دار الآخرة, “Abode of the Hereafter”), Dāru ’l-Baqāʾ (دار البقاء, “Abode of Everlasting Duration”), and Dāru ’l-Uqbā (دار العقبى, “Abode of the Next Life”).
Etymology
- Dāru ’l-Ak͟hirat: Derived from Arabic, “دار” (Dār) means “abode” and “الآخرة” (Al-Akhirah) means “the other” or “the hereafter.”
- Dāru ’l-Baqāʾ: The term “البقاء” (Al-Baqā’) denotes permanency or everlastingness.
- Dāru ’l-Uqbā: “العقبى” (Al-Uqbā’) signifies the hereafter or final outcome.
Background
The Arabic terms elude the depth with which Islam permeates the belief of life after death, beginning with the Qur’anic revelations. Islam places immense importance on the eschatological doctrines, which encompass paradise (Jannah), hell (Jahannam), Barzakh (an intermediary state), and the final abode reflecting moral accountability. Believing in the hereafter is one of the six articles of faith in Islam, fundamentally shaping Muslim practices and ethical frameworks.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Comparatively, Abrahamic faiths (Christianity, Judaism) share the belief in the soul’s immortality and an afterlife, with each tradition harboring unique narratives, for example:
- Christianity: Envisions Heaven and Hell.
- Judaism: References Olam Ha-Ba (“the world to come”).
The distinguishing Islamic belief stresses continuity with physical and spiritual recompense and accountability, reflected in worldly deeds and ensuring a faithfully moral life.
Synonyms
- Hereafter
- Afterlife
- Eternal Life
Antonyms
- Mortal Life
- Worldly Existence
Related Terms with Definitions
- Jannah: The paradise where the faithful receive eternal reward.
- Jahannam: Hell, a place of punishment for the sinful.
- Barzakh: A period or intermediate state between mortal life and the Day of Judgment.
Exciting Facts
- The mentions of Jannah and Jahannam are numerous in the Qurʾān, emphasizing their significance.
- Rituals and ethics in daily Islamic life are profoundly directed by eschatological beliefs.
- Dreams and visions in Islamic culture are often seen as windows to the hereafter.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The Garden wherein those who believe and do good, righteous deeds…their final resting place, an everlasting state of true peace and reward.” - Qurʾān 13:23-24
References and Suggested Literature
- “The Hereafter in Islamic Thought” by Harun Yahya
- “Islamic Eschatology: The Judgment Day” by Sayyid Fadlullah Safdar
- “Qurʾānic Studies: Interpretations & Narratives” by Amina Al-Fahad
Farewell Note
“In the understanding of our future beyond the temporal realm, we learn not just about destiny but our duties in the now. We embrace faith, transcendence, and a life purposed towards an infinite hereafter.”
Until our paths cross again on a journey of knowledge and faith, Amina Al-Fahad
