The Process of Elaboration and Consolidation of Belief in the Afterlife as Explained in the Meccan Chapters of the Qur’an

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD student of Qur’anic sciences and hadith, College of Theology, Meybod University, Meybod, Iran

2 Professor of Qur’anic sciences and hadith, College of Theology, Meybod University, Meybod, Iran

3 Assistant professor of Qur’anic sciences and hadith, College of Theology, Meybod University, Meybod, Iran

10.30512/kq.2025.22180.3963

Abstract

The afterlife (Ma'ad) is one of the fundamental tenets of Islam, and belief in it is essential for every Muslim. This concept has been addressed in numerous Meccan and Medinan verses. The Quranic approach to the afterlife in Meccan chapters follows a sequential, multi-stage development, beginning with simple expressions and gradually progressing to more complex formulations.This descriptive-analytical study examines the evolving discussion of the afterlife issues in Meccan chapters. The findings reveal three distinct developmental phases as follows: Initial phase: Emphasis on the signs of the Day of Judgment, its inevitability, descriptions of Hell, and warnings thereof. Intermediate phase: Direct engagement with afterlife deniers through more elaborate arguments, introducing Paradise concepts, and contrasting the fates of believers and the wicked- Advanced phase. Introduction of sophisticated concepts like Barzakh (intermediary realm), eschatological events (e.g., trumpet blast, Hell gates), and profound theological arguments including divine justice and wisdom as proofs for resurrection.

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References

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Ketab-E-Qayyem
Volume 15, Issue 2 - Serial Number 33
September 2025
Pages 167-189

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History

  • Receive Date: 29 March 2024
  • Revise Date: 18 July 2024
  • Accept Date: 01 August 2024

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