📜 Comprehensive Definitions
ʾAsharah Mubashsharah (عشرة مبشرة) refers to the ten companions of the Prophet Muhammad who were promised Paradise. These revered individuals were guaranteed entrance into Jannah (Paradise) due to their significant contributions to Islam and their unwavering faith.
🏷️ Etymology
- ʾAsharah (عشرة) - Arabic for ’ten'.
- Mubashsharah (مبشرة) - Derived from the word ‘bushra’ which means ‘glad tidings’ or ‘good news’.
📖 Background
The concept of ʾAsharah Mubashsharah originates from various Hadiths, including those collected in Mishkāt al-Masābīh (book xxiv, c. xx., part ii.). The Prophet Muhammad made an exception to his teaching that it was presumptuous for anyone to assume guaranteed entry into heaven, highlighting the unparalleled virtues and sacrifices of these ten companions.
🌍 Cultural Significance
These companions are of immense importance within Islamic culture, serving as paragons of faith, loyalty, and righteousness. Islamic scholars often emphasize these individuals in literature, sermons, and educational programs, aiming to inspire the Muslim ummah (community) to emulate their piety and dedication.
🤝 Cultural Differences and Similarities
In the broader context of world religions, the exceptional status of these ten companions is similar to the veneration of saints or revered individuals who are believed to have direct assurance of heavenly reward. While the concept is unique in its details to Islam, the practice of honoring select individuals for their exceptional devotion exists across various religions.
🛠️ Synonyms, Antonyms, Related Terms
Synonyms:
- Companions of the Prophet (Sahabah)
- Guaranteed Jannah
Antonyms:
- Kufr (disbelief)
- Munafiq (hypocrite)
Related Terms:
- Sahabah (الصحابة): The companions of the Prophet Muhammad who witnessed his life, teachings and supported him.
- Jannah (جنة): Paradise in Islamic theology, the final abode of the righteous and the faithful.
- Hadith (حديث): Narrations concerning the words and deeds of the Prophet Muhammad.
💡 Interesting Facts
- The life stories of these ten companions are often studied extensively in Islamic personal development courses.
- They played crucial roles in establishing the foundations of the early Islamic community and governing the nascent Caliphate.
💬 Quotations from Notable Writers
- Al-Qurtubi: “These ten individuals were given auspicious standing by Allah and the Prophet, not merely for their faith but for their decisive roles, sacrifices, and unparalleled courage.”
- Saʿīd ibn al-Musayyib: “Who are better for the Ummah than those whom the Prophet promised eternal felicity in paradise?”
📚 Suggested Literature & Sources
- “The Companions of The Prophet” (S. Mannan).
- “LIVES OF THE SAHABAH” (Muhammad Yusuf Kandhlawi).
- “The History of al-Tabari” - A classical bibliography of Islamic figures.
- Mishkāt al-Masābīh - Collection of Hadiths in the .semester-by Muhammad ibn Abdullah al-Khatib al-Tabrizi.
📝 Quizzes
At the heart of Islamic teachings, the ʾAsharah Mubashsharah symbolize unwavering dedication and serve as a beacon of faith for the Muslim Ummah. May the stories and virtues of these esteemed companions inspire us all.
Hakim Al-Rashid October 10, 2023 “The ten rays of light that guide us through the epochs of faith and resilience, establishing the bridge between mortal endeavors and divine destiny.”