Definition of ḤAYĀT (حيوة)
ḤAYĀT (حيوة) - “Life.” This term is used extensively in the Qurʾān and denotes varied dimensions of life. It’s not just the physical existence but encompasses spiritual, ethical, and afterlife aspects, portraying a complete holistic journey.
Etymology of ḤAYĀT (حيوة)
The word Ḥayāt (حيوة) derives from the root ḥ-y-y (ح ي ي), conveying notions related to being alive, living, or sustaining life. This root ubiquitously occurs in Semitic languages, emphasizing vibrance and the principle of life itself.
Background
Within Islamic theology, Ḥayāt encompasses two main dimensions:
- Al-Ḥayātu ʾd-dunyā: The worldly life, defined by transient and material existence.
- Al-Ḥayātu l-ukhrawinya: The afterlife, reflecting the eternal life in the hereafter, which is spiritually significant and everlasting in the presence of Allah.
Key verses such as Sūrah xviii. 44 highlight how wealth and children embellish the transient nature of worldly life, while Sūrah ii. 25 underscores life’s intrinsic value in terms of righteousness and divine justice.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
The concept of Ḥayāt finds echoes in various religious traditions:
- Christianity: Similar in its view of transient worldly life and the importance of eternal salvation.
- Hinduism and Buddhism: Compare to Samsara (the cycle of life, death, and rebirth) and strive for eternal spiritual realization in Moksha or Nirvana.
However, unlike reincarnation concepts, Islam emphasizes linear progress from earthly life towards an eternal afterlife.
Synonyms
- Existence (وجود - Wujud)
- Being (كينونة - Kainūnah)
Antonyms
- Death (موت - Mawt)
- Annihilation (فناء - Fanāʾ)
Related Terms and Definitions
- Nafs (نفس): The ‘self’ or ‘soul,’ integral to understanding one’s life.
- Dār Al-Baqā (دار البقاء): The ‘abode of permanence,’ referring to the eternal afterlife.
- **Qiyāmah (قيام): The Day of Resurrection.
- Akhirah (آخرة): The ‘hereafter,’ emphasizing life after death.
Exciting Facts
- The word Ḥayāt is mentioned frequently in the Qurʾān, shaping Islamic views on the value and purpose of life.
- In various illustrations, “Ḥayāt” metaphorically represents growth, development, and continuous striving for spiritual elevation.
- It uniquely bridges the material and metaphysical, teaching balanced living in both worlds.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “The life of this world is just the enjoyment of deception.” - Qurʾān (57:20)
- “Consider the life of this world as temporary and remember the permanence of the Hereafter.” - Imam Ali
References and Suggested Literature
For deeper insights and further study, consider literature such as:
- “The Meaning of the Qurʾān” by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
- “The Sublime Quran” by Laleh Bakhtiar
- “Islam: Empire of Faith” by Philip Jenkins
- “Qurʾanic Ethics” by Asim Ibrahim
Quizzes on ḤAYĀT
May your journey through the understanding of ḤAYĀT (حيوة) enrich your life with spiritual insight and practical wisdom, guiding you towards eternal fulfillment.
Emir Zain [Author and Theologian, October 3, 2023]
