🔍 Decoding Karūbīn (كروبين‎): The Islamic Concept of Cherubim

Comprehensive Definition and Etymology

Karūbīn (كروبين‎) - A term in Islamic theology referring to a specific category of angels, often equated with cherubim in Judeo-Christian traditions. The word “Karūbīn” derives from the Hebrew “Kerub” (plural: Kerubim or Cherubim), signifying a subgroup of celestial beings known for serving God and performing divine functions.

Background

In Islamic belief, angels are spiritual beings created by Allah from light. They have various roles, such as delivering messages from God, praising Him, and executing His will. The Karūbīn are considered among these angels but are notable for their unique roles and attributes, often described as close to the divine throne, maintaining a state of eternal worship and adoration of Allah.

Cultural Differences and Similarities

Islamic Perspective:

• Roles and Duties: Karūbīn are portrayed as magnificent, radiant beings dedicating their existence to the praise and worship of Allah. They are generally perceived as guardians of heaven and keepers of divine records.
• Appearances in Texts: Unlike in other traditions where Cherubim are more explicitly described with detailed physical forms and roles, in Islamic tradition, the mention of Karūbīn (or cherubim) can be more abstract and less frequent in comparison.

Judeo-Christian Perspective:

• Roles and Duties: In Judaism and Christianity, Cherubim are also considered angels, specifically associated with the protection of the Garden of Eden and the mercy seat in the Tabernacle and Temple.
• Appearance and Description: Cherubim in these traditions are often depicted with multiple faces, wings, and intricately designed bodies, symbolizing their multi-faceted roles in spiritual teachings.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: Angels (ملا ئكة‎, Malā’ikah), Heavenly Beings.
• Antonyms: Demons (شياطين‎, Shayāṭīn), Evil Spirits.

Related Terms with Definitions

• Jibril (جبريل): Known as Gabriel in the Judeo-Christian traditions, he is an archangel responsible for delivering God’s messages to prophets.
• Malā’ikah (ملا ئكة‎): The Arabic word for angels, encompassing beings created from light who carry out God’s commands.
• ʿArsh (عرش): The Throne of Allah, around which Karūbīn and other angels are often depicted.

Exciting Facts

• Eternal Worship: Karūbīn are considered eternally engaged in the praise of Allah, reflecting their high status among angels.
• Universal Symbol: While each tradition represents cherubim differently, their portrayal as guardians and servants of the divine remains a common theme.
• Art and Iconography: The depiction of Karūbīn has inspired rich art traditions across cultures though less commonly visualized in Islamic art due to aniconism.

Quotations from Notable Writers

• Ibn Kathir, Islamic scholar: “Indeed, the angels, among them the Karūbīn, maintain their glorification of Allah, constantly praising Him and serving as His emissaries and administrators of His will.”
• Rumi, Persian Poet: “Between the divine spaces resides the heart of Karūbīn, pure in worship, exalted in light, manifesting the essence of submission to the Most High.”

References

1. Qur’an: Provides various mentions of angels and their roles, including those that align with the concept of Karūbīn.
2. Hadith Collections: Sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that include references to angelic beings.
3. Tafsir (Quranic Exegesis): Commentaries by Islamic scholars elaborating on the roles and nature of angels.

Suggested Literature for Further Studies

• “Angels in Islam: A Comprehensive Study” by Hamid Abdul-Latif
• “Heavenly Creatures: Theological Explorations of Muslim Angelology” by Sarah Anwar-Razak
• “The Role of Angels in Abrahamic Religions” edited by Miriam Goldstein and Yusuf Siddiqui

Quizzes

“True understanding comes from the convergence of study and contemplation, where the soul aligns with the wisdom accumulated over ages.”

**- Ishraq Al-Mansour **