The notion of the pre-existence of souls holds a unique place in Islamic theology, supported both by verses from the Qur’ān and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This doctrine suggests that souls exist before being united with bodies in this world.
Comprehensive Definition
The pre-existence of souls refers to the concept that the souls of individuals were created by Allah before their physical manifestation in human bodies. This idea outlines that souls acknowledged their Creator and were then sent to inhabit their destined physical forms upon birth.
Etymology
The term ‘pre-existence’ combines the prefix ‘pre-’, from Latin ‘prae-’, meaning ‘before’ and ’existence’, from Latin ’existentia’, which means ‘being’. Together, they signify a state of being prior to a particular event—in this case, prior to physical birth.
Background
This belief is rooted deeply in Islamic traditions. Surah Al-A’raf (7:172) mentions:
“And when your Lord took from the children of Adam, from their loins—their descendants and made them testify of themselves, saying to them, ‘Am I not your Lord?’ They said, ‘Yes, we have testified.’”
Early Islamic commentators, like Al-Baghawi and Al-Baiẓāwī, expanded on this, narrating that all future souls were extracted from Adam and made to testify to the oneness of Allah, a covenant taken before physical existence.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
This belief shares similarities with other religious traditions that propose ideas of pre-existence. For example, certain notions in Hinduism propose a cyclical nature of life where the soul exists through past and future lives.
However, the Islamic version is distinct in its monotheistic context. It focuses on the unique covenant between souls and Allah, with an emphasis on accountability and ultimate return to the Creator.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Pre-natal existence
- Primordial existence of souls
Antonyms:
- Creationism (in the sense that the soul is created at the time of physical birth)
- Annihilationism (the belief that souls are not eternal)
Related Terms with Definitions
Ruh (روح): The Arabic word typically translated as “soul” or “spirit” in Islamic theology, signifying the non-material essence of a human being.
Qiyamah (قيامة): The Islamic concept of the Day of Judgment when all souls will be resurrected for accounting.
Fitrat (فطرة): The innate disposition or natural constitution instilled in humans by Allah, involving an inherent recognition of Him.
Exciting Facts
- The covenant mentioned in Surah Al-A’raf is known as the “Day of Alast” (meaning “Am I not [your Lord]?”).
- This moment of testimony is considered the foundation of fitrah - the intrinsic nature of human beings to recognize their Creator.
Quotation from Notable Writers
Imam Al-Ghazali, a prominent theologian and philosopher, once wrote:
“Every soul bore witness before its creation and was aware of the Creator. Life’s journey is a reawakening to that primordial pledge.”
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- “The Forty Hadiths” by Imam Nawawi: A collection of pivotal hadiths, some explaining pre-existence concepts.
- “The Soul’s Journey After Death” by Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim: An enlightening treatise discussing life after death and pre-existential theology.
Quizzes
May your quest for knowledge always bring you closer to the ultimate truths, enriching your heart and soul along the journey.
Jamaluddin Khayyam
October 4, 2023
