🌍 AZ-ZILZĀL (الزلزال)
Comprehensive Definition
Az-Zilzāl (الزلزال), translating to The Earthquake, is the name of the 99th chapter (sūrah) of the Qur’an. This chapter consists of 8 āyāt (verses) which describe a significant earthquake that marks the advent of Judgment Day, highlighting the power, accountability, and inevitable confrontation of humanity with the outcomes of their deeds.
Etymology
The term “Az-Zilzāl” stems from the Arabic root “زَلْزَلَ,” which implies shaking or trembling. Traditionally, this term has been associated with seismic events and physical disturbances.
Background
This sūrah is categorized as a Madinan revelation, meaning it was revealed during the later period of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life when he was settled in Medina. The chapter addresses themes of accountability and divine judgment, underpinning the fundamental eschatological beliefs in Islam.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Islamic Perspective: Az-Zilzāl is seen as a clear representation of divine justice, indicating an absolute day of reckoning where the earth reveals hidden truths and humanity is judged accordingly.
- Judeo-Christian Perspective: Similar concepts appear in Biblical texts referring to apocalyptic events. Christianity and Judaism also portray cataclysmic events during the end times, involving earthquakes and divine judgment.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- The Earthquake (الزلزال)
- The Final Shaking (ارتجاج النهائي)
Antonyms:
- Peace (السلام)
- Tranquility (الطمأنينة)
Related Terms
- Yawm ad-Din (يوم الدين): The Day of Judgment, when all beings are held accountable.
- Qiyamah (القيامة): The term used to denote the final resurrection and ultimate confrontation with one’s deeds.
- Ākhirah (الآخرة): The afterlife which encompasses the events of Qiyamah.
Exciting Facts
- Sūrat az-Zilzāl is brief but intensely vivid and potent in imagery, leaving a profound impact on its readers.
- The descriptions align closely with seismic phenomena, demonstrating a timeless relevance to natural events and disasters.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Its verses do justice to the word ‘earthquake,’ shaking the foundations of man’s soul with illustrative power…like an unseen tremor causing life’s largest reflections.” - Tariq Ramzi, Islamic Scholar
References
- The Holy Qur’an, Sura XCIX, with Tafsir interpretations from renowned scholars.
- “Islamic Piety and Eschatology” by Professor Fatima Malik, 2012.
- “Scriptures of Abrahamic Religions” by Dr. Henry Richards, 2010.
Suggested Literature & Further Reading
- The Qur’an: An English Translation by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
- In the Shade of the Qur’an by Sayyid Qutb
- Tafsir Al-Mazhari by Qadi Thanaullah Panipati
- Islam and the Fate of Others by Mohammad Hassan Khalil
Engaging Quizzes 🎓
Farewell Thought
May our journey through understanding inspire profound reflections upon the verses of the holy Qur’an and enlighten us about the inevitable realities of life and beyond.
Best regards,
Ibrahim Al-Hussein
