📅 YAUMUN MAʿLŪMUN (يوم معلوم): The Known Day in Islamic Eschatology
Comprehensive Definition
YAUMUN MAʿLŪMUN (يوم معلوم) literally translates to “A Known Day.” In Islamic theology, it refers to the Day of Judgment, a momentous event foreseen by God and proclaimed in Islamic eschatology as the day when all souls will be gathered for divine judgment. This concept carries profound spiritual and doctrinal significance, emphasizing both the omniscience and omnipotence of Allah.
Etymology and Background
The term comes from Classical Arabic:
- Yaumun (يوم): Day
- Maʿlūmun (معلوم): Known or certain
These words collectively signify a specific day that is known and predetermined by God.
Qur’anic Reference
One of the notable references is Surah 56 (Al-Waqi’ah), Ayah 50:
“Gathered shall they surely be for the tryst of a known day.” (yašmaʿūn yaqīnan līliqi’an yaumun maʿlūm - يجمعن يقن ليقعن يوم معلوم)
This highlights the sheer gravity and decisiveness of this future event.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islam views the Day of Judgment as a focal point of life. Dominantly referred to as “Qiyamah” in Islam, this belief aligns at its core with other Abrahamic traditions:
- Christianity discusses the Last Judgment.
- Judaism refers to the Day of the Lord or Yom HaDin.
However, unlike these other faiths, Islamic eschatology uniquely involves detailed accounts of the signs leading to it and deeply intertwined descriptions in the Hadith and Tafsir literature.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
- Qiyamah
- Yawm al-Din (Day of Religion)
- Yawm al-Hisab (Day of Reckoning)
Antonyms
Conceptually, there is no direct antonym in Islamic theology, as it transcends regular binary contrasts. However, in worldly terms, temporary existence or the present life (Dunyā) acts as an indirect antonym.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Akhirah (الآخرة): The afterlife that follows the Day of Judgment, consisting of both Jannah (Paradise) and Jahannam (Hell).
- Siraat (الصراط): The bridge believed to be crossed to enter Paradise post the day’s reckoning.
- Dajjāl (الدّجّال): An evil entity prophesied to appear before the Day of Judgment, contributing to tribulations.
Exciting Facts and Quotations from Notable Writers
facts:
- YAUMUN MAʿLŪMUN serves as a constant spiritual reminder of accountability, nudging believers towards righteousness.
- Many eschatological signs prophesied in Islamic texts serve as markers for recognizing the approach of the Unknown Day.
Quotations
Ibn Kathir, prominent Islamic scholar, elucidated:
“Every soul shall taste death, and we test you with evil and with good as trial; and to Us, you will be returned for the Known Day.”
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- “The Quran”: Central text for understanding the theological depth about YAUMUN MAʿLŪMUN.
- Tafsir Al-Jalalayn: Detailed exegesis of Quranic verses dealing with eschatology.
- Works by Imam al-Ghazali, particularly, “The Remembrance of Death and the Afterlife.”
- “Kitab al-Fitan”: Hadith collections on tribulations and portents of the Last Day by Al-Barzanjī.
Quizzes
Thank you, and may this journey of learning invite clarity and profound resonance in understanding faith. Pursue knowledge, reflect kindly, and tread thoughtfully.
