Resurrection: Definition and Meaning
Comprehensive Definition
Resurrection, in the Islamic context, refers to the process in which all human beings are brought back to life for final judgment after physical death. This event will determine each person’s eternal fate based on their deeds during their earthly life. The Qur’an strongly counters the pre-Islamic Arab belief that death is the end, affirming that it is merely a transition to the Day of Reckoning.
Etymology
The term “resurrection” in Arabic is “Al-Ba’ath” (البعث). This term is derived from the root “ب-ع-ث” (Ba-a-th), which means to send, raise, or resurrect.
Background and Historical Facts
The belief in resurrection is foundational in Islamic eschatology. It was vigorously promoted by Prophet Muhammad to remind his followers of accountability and justice. According to traditions, significant cataclysmic events will precede the resurrection, signaling its imminent arrival. Muhammad himself is believed to be the first among the resurrected.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Islamic Concept: Bodily resurrection, where the physical body is resurrected.
- Christianity: Similarly holds belief in bodily resurrection, especially significant in the context of Jesus’s resurrection.
- Hinduism and Buddhism: Concepts like reincarnation focus more on spiritual rebirth rather than physical resurrection.
- Judaism: Belief in bodily resurrection is present but with varying interpretations.
Synonyms
- Day of Resurrection
- Day of Reckoning
- Judgment Day (Yawm al-Din)
Antonyms
- Final Death
- Oblivion
Related Terms
- Al-Akhirah: The hereafter or afterlife.
- Qiyamah: The Day of Resurrection.
Exciting Facts
- The Quran contains multiple references to resurrection, emphasizing its certainty and the recompense for one’s deeds.
- Major and minor signs of Qiyamah are extensively discussed in Hadith literature, detailing events leading up to the resurrection.
Quotations
“The trumpet will be blown, and at once they will rise up from their graves toward their Lord.” - [Quran 36:51]
Suggested Literature for Further Studies
- “Islamic Eschatology: An Introduction” by Mahmoud M. Ayoub, published 1997.
- “The End of the World” by Al-Hafiz Ibn Kathir, published 2000.
- “Death and the Afterlife in Islam” by Jane I. Smith and Yvonne Yazbeck Haddad, published 2003.
May your pursuit of knowledge shine a light upon the deepest corners of your understanding, as the dawn illuminates the world each day. 🌅📖 – Kamaluddin Al-Rashid, published 2023-10
