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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books The Shiite Apologetics Question Ten What does Raj`ah mean and why do Shiites believe in it? Answer: Raj`ah in Arabic means, to return and it specifically refers to the return of a group of people to life before the Day of Resurrection - simultaneous with the global uprising of the promised Mahdi.

This is a truth which is inconsistent neither with the common sense nor with the logic of Revelation: on the one hand, in view of Islam and other Divine religions, mans essence or soul continues to live an immortal life after it departs the body; on the other, God is Omnipotent, as stated in the Quran - nothing can limit His might.

Thus, the issue of Raj`ah (returning of life) is logically possible, for a passing look upon the matter proves that bringing the dead to life is far easier than creating them. Thus, the Creator who created man first is undoubtedly able to bring them to life again. Referring to instances of Raj`ah in the bygone nations, the Holy Quran states: and when you said; O Moses, we will not believe in you until we see Allah manifestly, so the punishment overtook you while you looked on.

Then We raised you up after your death that you may give thanks. (2:55-56). Also, the holy Quran quotes Jesus Christ as saying: and I bring the dead to life with Allahs permission (3:49) The holy Quran not only attests the possibility of Raj`ah but also confirms that a group of people will return to life before the Day of Resurrection.

The following verses refer to this point: And when the word shall come to pass against them, We shall bring forth for them a creature from the earth that shall speak to them, because people did not believe in our revelations. And on the day when We shall gather from every nation a party from among those who rejected our revelations then they shall be formed into groups.

(27:82-83) To prepare the ground for a discussion on the question of the return of the dead before Resurrection Day, the following points should be taken into consideration: Muslim commentators believe that the above verses refer to Judgment Day. The first verse mentions one of the signs of what will happen before the Day of Resurrection.