Comprehensive Definition
QURBU ʾS-SĀʿAH (قرب الساعة)
“QURBU ʾS-SĀʿAH” often translates to “The Hour which is near.” In Islamic eschatology, it signifies nearness to the Day of Resurrection (Yawm al-Qiyāmah) and Judgment (Yawm ad-Dīn). This concept encapsulates the anticipation of a climactic event when all beings will stand before Allah for final judgment.
Etymology
Arabic Roots:
- “قرب” (Qurb): “Nearness, proximity.”
- “الساعة” (As-Sāʿah): “The Hour,” a common term for the Day of Judgment in Islam.
Background
The arrival of “الساعة” is heavily emphasized in the Qur’ān and Hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad). It denotes an inevitable and sudden event symbolizing the end of worldly life and the beginning of an eternal hereafter.
Qur’anic References:
- Surah Al-Qiyama (75:6) - “He asks: ‘When is the Day of Resurrection?’”
- Surah Az-Zumar (39:68) - “And the Trumpet will be blown, and all who are in the heavens and all who are in the earth will swoon away, except him whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown a second time, and behold, they will be standing, looking on (waiting).”
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Across Islamic cultures, the belief in the Day of Judgment unites all followers, although symbolic interpretations may vary. Sunni and Shia traditions unanimously uphold this tenet, with nuances found in various hadith collections and scholarly interpretations.
Synonyms
- As-Sāʿah (الساعة): “The Hour,” also used directly to imply the Day of Judgment.
- Yawm al-Qiyāmah (يوم القيامة): “Day of Resurrection.”
Antonyms
- Dunyā (دنیا): “The worldly life,” as opposed to the eternal hereafter.
- Hayāt (حیاة): “Life,” generally referring to the earthly existence.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Barzakh (برزخ): The intermediate state between death and resurrection.
- Jannah (جنة): The Islamic conception of paradise.
- Jahannam (جهنم): Hell in both Abrahamic and Islamic eschatology.
- Imān (إيمان): Faith, integral to accepting eschatological doctrines in Islam.
Exciting Facts
- Muslim scholars and theologians have been debating and interpreting signs of “As-Sāʿah” for centuries.
- The exact timing of QURBU ʾS-SĀʿAH remains unknown, intended to keep believers vigilant in their spiritual and moral duties.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Ibn Kathir: “The concept of As-Sāʿah carries aspects known only to Allah. Its nearness is a reminder of our proximity to ultimate accountability.”
- Imam Al-Ghazali: “Reflect upon the Day of Judgment; without its certainty, moral life loses its eminence.”
References and Suggested Literature
- The Qur’an, especially Surahs dealing with eschatology.
- “The Signs Before the Day of Judgment” by Ibn Kathir provides a comprehensive account of events leading up to As-Sāʿah.
- “Revival of Religious Sciences” by Al-Ghazali delves into spiritual preparation for the Hereafter.
In parting, reflect on the profoundness that lies within the concept of QURBU ʾS-SĀʿAH. Let it be a catalyst for spiritual and moral refinement as you navigate through the ephemeral journey of life toward an eternal abode.
Rashid Al-Yousef October 10, 2023
