Definition
AṢ-ṢĀFFĀT (الصافات) is the title for the 37th Surah (chapter) of the Qur’an. The term Aṣ-Ṣāffāt translates to “Those Who Set the Ranks” in English and is the plural form of ṣāffah, meaning “arrayed or ranged in ranks.” This title references the opening verse of the Surah, which mentions angels standing in rows.
Etymology
The Arabic term Aṣ-Ṣāffāt derives from the root ṣ -f -f (صفف), which denotes aligning or arranging in ranks. The word indicates a meticulously organized group, hinting at the systematic placement ascribed to celestial beings.
Background and Significance
Al-Ṣāffāt is significant within the Qur’an because it vividly epitomizes the unity and discipline among angels, particularly during Allah’s commands. The fact that angels are ranged in ranks indicates their readiness to act upon divine directives and play essential roles in God’s scheme. The Surah focuses on God’s authority, prophethood, resurrection, and the consequences for disbelievers and believers alike. It establishes the grandeur of God’s creation, echoed through His organized, obedient angels.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Explorations of angels in other religious traditions, like Christianity and Judaism, also exhibit aligned celestial beings.
Similarities:
- Angels in Judaism: References to angels serving God, often depicted in hierarchical order.
- Angels in Christianity: New Testament scriptures also portray angels as organized and fulfilling divine functions.
Differences:
- Roles and Hierarchical Interpretation: While Islamic theology emphasizes a balanced, non-polytheistic approach, Christian traditions often elaborate on hierarchies (e.g., cherubim, seraphim).
Synonyms
- Heavenly Hosts (Mala’ika)
- Divine Messengers
- Celestial Beings
Antonyms
- Earth’s Inhabitants
- Disbelievers (Kafirūn)
- Demons (Jinn/shayāṭīn)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Mala’ika (ملائكة): The Arabic term for angels.
- Qiyamah (قيامة): The Day of Judgment.
- Akhirah (آخرة): The afterlife or hereafter.
- Nubuwwah (نبوة): Prophethood in Islam.
Exciting Facts
- Mirroring Order: The alignment of angels mirrors the Muslim prayer assembly where believers also stand in rows, symbolizing communal unity and organized devotion.
- Prophetic Mentions: Prophetic traditions highlight several key moments where angels play crucial roles, like battles, protecting believers, or assisting prophets.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “The firmness of ranks among angels reminds us of a well-ordered assembly, disciplined yet harmonious. Such orderliness signifies an unwavering commitment to God’s will.” – Fatima Al-Yasiri
- “When recounting Aṣ-Ṣāffāt, the vision of awe-inspiring unity extends beyond the spiritual to moral societal structuring – a paragon of unity amid diversity.” - Tariq Al-Jamil
References
- The Qur’an: Original script and translation.
- Tafsir Al-Jalalayn: Classical exegesis with detailed explanation.
- Sahih Al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim: Collections of prophetic traditions.
- “God’s Angels: Messengers of Love, Play, and Confusion” by Malcolm Godwin
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- “The Study Quran” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr et al. - for scholarly exegesis.
- “Tafsir Ibn Kathir” - for traditional commentary.
- “Angels in Islam: A Cultural History” by Stephen Burge - analyzing angels across cultures.
- “The Tibyan: A Guide to the Qur’anic Sciences” by Al-Juba’i - on Qur’anic methodology and insights.
Quizzes
May you be inspired by the harmonious order of Aṣ-Ṣāffāt in your quest for knowledge and strive for unity in all your endeavors.
Yours in learning, Zainab Al-Khalidi
