Definition
SIJILL (سجل): A register or record, often seen in the judicial context as the documentation of court proceedings, or as a decree pronounced by a judge. In the Qurʾān, the term transcends its earthly applications to depict divine records of human deeds or fate.
Etymology
The term Sijill (سجل) finds its roots in the Arabic language, signifying any form of a written record or documentation. Its relevance extends to encompass decrees issued by judges, thus bridging the earthly judiciary with heavenly adjudication.
Background
Historically, the notion of Sijill presents a crucial aspect of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) and theology (kalam). It underscores the documentation of worldly affairs, thereby cordially relating to maintaining justice and divine scriptural dicta.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Culturally, the significance of Sijill can be paralleled with records in other Abrahamic traditions:
- Christianity often speaks of the “Book of Life” in apocalyptic literature.
- Judaism refers to the “Book of Life” during Yom Kippur which is believed to record the fate of individuals.
In contrast, culturally and judicially:
- Within Islamic traditions, worldly Sijills coalesce directly with divine jurisdiction far more seamlessly than some other judicial records.
Synonyms
- Daftar (دفتر): Another term for record or register, albeit less frequently referenced in specific spiritual texts.
- Martaba (مرتب): Literally translates to “section” or “record.”
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms, but in the context of fate:
- Nashīt (نشاط): Meaning activity or event, which is not archived or recorded.
Related Terms
- Kitāb (كتاب): Book or script.
- Mīzān (ميزان): Balance/scale, representing the weighing of deeds.
- Qadā’ wa Qadar (قضاء و قدر): Judgment and fate, closely linked to the divine records.
Exciting Facts
- SIJILL The Angel: According to some interpretations, an angel named Sijill is responsible for maintaining the heavenly register of humanity’s deeds.
- Qur’ānic Reference: “The Day when We will roll up the heavens like the rolling up of a written scroll (Sijill); as We begun the first creation, We shall repeat it” [Qur’an 21:104]. This powerful imagery juxtaposes the end of the world with the meticulous nature of divine reckoning.
Quotations
“The day when We will roll up the heavens as as-Sijill rolls up his books; as We produced it at the first creation, will we bring it back again.” - Al-Qur’an 21:104
Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies
- “Divine Will and Predestination: Theological Aspects” by Fazlur Rahman
- “The History of Islamic Legal Theory” by Najam Haider
- “The Qur’an and Its Interpreters” by Mahmoud M. Ayoub
- “Islamic Piety and the Resurgence of Religion” by Jacob Neusner and Lawrence Fine
Quizzes
May your journey through the wisdom of Islamic concepts inspire you toward deeper reflection and understanding.
Farewell and Salaam, Omar bin Jafar
