🌌 AT-TAKWĪR (التكوير): The Folding of Cosmic Realities 📜
The 81st chapter (Sūrah) of the Qur’ān, known as AT-TAKWĪR (التكوير), dramatically brings to life the imagery of the End Times. Staring with the potent proclamation, “When the sun shall be folded up,” this Sūrah embarks on a vivid exposition of cosmic alterations, heralding the Day of Judgment.
Comprehensive Definition
AT-TAKWĪR: An Arabic term directly translated to “The Folding-up.” It refers to the folding or concealing of cosmic elements—a process akin to dismantling the universe, commencing with the sun’s folding. It symbiotically addresses both physical and metaphysical transformations that precede the Day of Judgment.
Etymology and Background
Etymologically, Takwir is derived from the root word كَوَرَ (kawara), meaning “to roll up” or “fold up.” Traditionally, this term signifies the wrapping of a turban, metaphorically representing the universal collapse into another state.
Historical Context: This Sūrah was revealed in Mecca during the early years of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) prophetic mission. It serves to build awareness and conscience among early Muslims about the ephemeral nature of worldly life and nurture the preparatory mindset for the life Hereafter.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Islam: Emphasizes the accountability that follows the end times. The notion of the universe folding dovetails with various signs leading up to the ultimate reckoning.
- Christianity and Judaism: Eschatological themes are prevalent, particularly in apocalyptic literature where cosmic destruction heralds divine judgment. Similar imagery exists in the Book of Revelation and the prophetic writings in the Old Testament.
- Hinduism: Concepts like the end of the Kali Yuga may resonate with themes of cosmic dissolution and renewal, though framed in a cyclical time perspective rather than linear.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Qiyamah (قيامة): Resurrection or Judgment Day.
- Eschaton: The end time/the final event in the divine plan.
No direct antonyms. The term is often situated within eschatological discourse, where “genesis/creation” might be considered an indirect antonym.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Qiyamah: The Day of Resurrection, signifying the final divine judgement of humankind.
- Barzakh: The intermediary state between earthly life and the afterlife.
Exciting Facts
- Cosmic Imagery: The description is not just a cosmic event but of monumental spiritual significance, forging a connection between physical cessation and eternal divine order.
- Literary Impact: Among the vivid portrayals in the Qur’ān, AT-TAKWĪR serves as a recurrent theme in Islamic art and literature, echoing the sublime and the finite interchangeably.
Quotations from Notable Writers
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Fakhr al-Din al-Razi: “When the sun ceases its motions, it is but a herald of a new dawn, symbolic of a mirored justice that lights the world beyond our knowing.”
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Seyyed Hossein Nasr: “Takwir instructs us in the ultimate transitory nature of life, impressing upon every soul the spectral urgency of standing before the Infinite.”
Suggest Literature and Further Studies
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” - Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- “Approaching the Qur’an: The Early Revelations” - Michael Sells
- “Understanding the Qur’anic Revelation” - John Kaltner
In understanding cosmic and metaphysical transitions encoded in themes like AT-TAKWĪR, we are reminded of our transient mortal existence and the perpetual quest for divine alignment.
Till we reflect again, keep gazing towards the skies with hope and humility. - Amina Al-Fahad, 2023
