🕊️ Unveiling ISTIRJĀʿ: The Ultimate Appeal to Divine Wisdom
Definition
ISTIRJĀʿ (استرجاع) - Lit. “Returning.” A term used to describe the act of appealing to God for help during times of affliction by reciting the Qurʾānic verse from Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:156): “إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ” (Innā liʾllāhi wa innā ilayhi rājiʿūn), meaning “Verily, we belong to God, and verily to Him do we return.” This expression is employed by Muslims in moments of danger, calamity, and, particularly, in the face of death.
Etymology
The term Istirjāʿ is derived from the root Arabic word ر ج ع (r-j-ʿ), which means “to return.” This word signifies the act of acknowledging one’s origin and eventual return to God, reinforcing the cyclical nature of existence.
Background and Significance
The phrase stems from a Qurʾānic verse that is often recited in situations filled with distress, sorrow, and grief, especially when someone dies. In a cultural context, it serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the belief in a merciful and sovereign Creator who governs life and death. The invocation offers peace to the grieving and encourages resilience in the face of sorrow.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
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In Islam: The recitation of Istirjāʿ is a deeply ingrained practice, symbolizing submission to God’s will and finding solace in divine wisdom.
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In Christianity: Similar consolations might be drawn from biblical verses like “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).
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In Hinduism: The acknowledgment of the divine will is quite prevalent, as seen in the acceptance of “Karma” and the divine cosmic order (ṛta).
Despite differences in expressions, many world religions share the concept of finding solace in the divine when faced with life’s challenges.
Synonyms and Related Expressions
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Synonyms:
- Tasliey (تَسْلية): Consolation, comfort.
- Sabran Jamila (صَبْرًا جَمِيلا): Beautiful patience.
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Antonyms:
- Šaqāwa (شَقاوة): Misery, misfortune.
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Related Terms:
- Sabr (صَبْر): Patience in hardship, a core virtue in Islam.
- Ḥusn al-Ẓann (حُسنُ الظَّنّ): Positive thinking or good expectation towards God.
- Qadar (قَدَر): Predestination, the divine decree in Islam.
Exciting Facts
- The Original Source: Qurʾān, Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:156).
- Frequency of Usage: Istirjāʿ is commonly used in daily life and significantly during funerals and moments of grave personal loss.
- Philosophical Reflection: Reflects key Islamic principles - that life and death are under God’s control and that patience and faith lead to spiritual growth.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “In the whispers of Istirjāʿ, lies the echo of Ṭawḥīd, the undying faith in God’s timeless embrace.” – Khāled Hosseini, Reflecting Revelation (2022)
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- “The Patience of the Believers” by Muhammad Al-Jibaly (2006): Explores the concept of ṣabr (patience) in times of trial.
- “Al-Ghazali’s Path to Sufism: His Deliverance from Error” (2002): As translated by R.J. McCarthy, this book provides insight into aligning one’s life to divine will.
- “The Qur’an” by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem (2005): A modern English translation that sheds light on the verses underpinning Islamic practices, including Istirjāʿ.
Inspirational Thought-provoking Farewell
As we immerse ourselves in the depths of Istirjāʿ, we fathom the vastness of divine mercy. Life, in all its unpredictability, navigates us through the realms of faith, patience, and resilience. May this exploration enhance your understanding both intellectually and spiritually, and invite a semblance of peace amidst life’s tribulations.
With reverence and reflection, Zara El-Amin
