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Why will our scrolls be given behind our back in the left hand on judgement day?

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A student. Took Islamiat and History as subjects, and greatly interested in Islamic and Indo-Pak history.
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In a Nutshell: Symbolism of Shame and Disgrace in Receiving the Scroll in the Left Hand from Behind the Back

The Quran vividly describes the scene of the Day of Judgment, where people will receive their record of deeds. Surah Al-Inshiqaq (84:7-12) states: "As for he who is given his record in his right hand, he will be judged with an easy account and return to his people in happiness. But as for he who is given his record behind his back, he will cry out for destruction and [enter to] burn in a Blaze."

Receiving the scroll in the left hand from behind signifies dishonor and disgrace. It symbolizes the regret and shame of those who led lives contrary to the commandments of Allah. This act is a profound symbol of failure and despair, marking those who have earned Allah's displeasure.

Introduction

The Day of Judgment in Islamic eschatology is a moment of unparalleled significance, where every individual will be held accountable for their deeds. A distinctive aspect of this day, as described in Islamic texts, is the manner in which scrolls, recording a person's deeds, are handed out. Notably, some will receive their scrolls in their left hand from behind their back. This article seeks to explore the symbolism, interpretations, and wisdom behind this particular occurrence, drawing upon Quranic verses, Hadiths, and scholarly insights.

Scholarly Perspectives on the Distribution of Scrolls

Classical scholars have delved into this topic extensively. They interpret these verses as indicative of the ultimate fate of individuals - a life of righteousness leading to honor (receiving the record in the right hand) versus a life of wrongdoing leading to disgrace (receiving the record in the left hand from behind).

Modern Islamic scholars continue to emphasize the metaphorical weight of this action. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of one’s actions and the inescapable nature of divine justice.

Why will our scrolls be given behind our back in the left hand?

The reckoning of deeds is a significant and unavoidable aspect of the Day of Judgment. On this day, each individual will possess their scroll of deeds, documenting every action taken in their lifetime. Given the vastness and complexity of one's life actions, many of which may not be fully remembered, these deeds will be presented before the Almighty Allah for personal examination.

In the Quran it is mentioned that:

يَوْمَئِذٍ يَصْدُرُ النَّاسُ أَشْتَاتاً لِّيُرَوْاْ أَعْمَالَهُمْ * فَمَن يَعْمَلْ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ خَيْراً يَرَهُ *وَمَن يَعْمَلْ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ شَرّاً يَرَهُ‏

On that day men shall come forth in sundry bodies that they may be shown their works. So he who has done an atom's weight of good shall see it. And he who has done an atom's weight of evil shall see it. (99:6-8)

And it also says:

يَوْمَ تَجِدُ كُلُّ نَفْسٍ مَّا عَمِلَتْ مِنْ خَيْرٍ مُّحْضَراً وَمَا عَمِلَتْ مِنْ سُوءٍ تَوَدُّ لَوْ أَنَّ بَيْنَهَا وَبَيْنَهُ أَمَداً بَعِيداً

On the day that every soul shall find present what it has done of good and what it has done of evil, it shall wish that between it and that (evil) there were a long duration of time… (3:30)

During the Qiyamat and the subsequent reckoning of deeds, each person's scroll of deeds will be handed over. However, the manner of receiving these scrolls will differ. Believers and the righteous will receive their scrolls in their right hands, symbolizing a smooth and easy reckoning. Conversely, the scrolls of the infidels and oppressors will be given from behind their back and in their left hand, signifying a difficult and harsh accounting.

The Holy Quran says:

فَأَمَّا مَنْ أُوتِىَ كِتَابَهُ بِيَمِينِهِ * فَسَوْفَ يُحَاسَبُ حِسَاباً يَسِيراً * وَ يَنقَلِبُ إِلَى‏ أَهْلِهِ مَسْرُوراً * وَأَمَّا مَنْ أُوتِىَ كِتَابَهُ وَرَآءَ ظَهْرِهِ * فَسَوْفَ يَدْعُواْ ثُبُوراً * وَيَصْلَى‏ سَعِيراً

Then as to him who is given his book in his right hand. He shall be reckoned with by an easy reckoning. And he shall go back to his people joyful. And as to him who is given his book behind his back. He shall call for perdition. And enter into burning fire. (84:7-12)


The distribution of scrolls in this manner is a manifestation of Allah's perfect justice. It illustrates that every individual is fairly recompensed for their deeds, whether good or bad.

This description serves as a stark warning for believers to lead righteous lives. The vivid imagery is intended to evoke a sense of fear of Allah’s displeasure and a strong motivation to adhere to the path of righteousness.

Misconceptions

Literal vs. Metaphorical Understanding

While some may interpret these descriptions literally, many scholars suggest that these details should be understood metaphorically, focusing on the underlying message rather than the physical act.

Universality of Judgment

It’s important to clarify that the Day of Judgment encompasses all of humanity, regardless of their faith or background. The distribution of scrolls is a part of this universal judgment.

Conclusion

The act of receiving one's record of deeds in the left hand from behind on the Day of Judgment is laden with symbolism and significance in Islamic eschatology. It serves as a reminder of the gravity of our actions and the inevitability of divine justice. This concept, deeply embedded in Islamic teachings, underscores the importance of living a life in accordance with Allah's commandments.

References

  1. The Holy Quran, Surah Al-Inshiqaq (84:7-12).
  2. Commentaries by classical Islamic scholars on the relevant Quranic verses.
  3. Contemporary Islamic scholarly articles discussing the symbolism and interpretation of the Day of Judgment.

FAQs on the Day of Judgment

Q1: Is the distribution of scrolls a literal or symbolic event? A1: The distribution of scrolls can be understood both literally and symbolically, representing the ultimate fate of an individual based on their earthly deeds.

Q2: What does receiving the scroll in the left hand signify? A2: Receiving the scroll in the left hand from behind signifies dishonor and disgrace, reserved for those who have disobeyed Allah’s commandments.

Q3: How should Muslims reflect on this aspect of the Day of Judgment? A3: Muslims should see this as a powerful reminder of the consequences of their actions and the importance of leading a righteous life.

Q4: Does the concept of receiving scrolls apply to all humanity? A4: Yes, the Day of Judgment and the distribution of scrolls is a universal event that encompasses all of humanity.

Q5: What is the significance of receiving the scroll in the right hand? A5: Receiving the scroll in the right hand is a symbol of honor, success, and the pleasure of Allah, awarded to those who have led righteous lives.


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