Homonym: baqa (Eternity)
Baqa is an Arabic term that translates to "eternity" or "perpetuity." In Islamic philosophy, it refers to the concept of everlasting existence, particularly in relation to the afterlife. It emphasizes the idea that the soul continues to exist beyond physical death, experiencing either reward or punishment based on one's actions in life.
In Sufism, baqa is often contrasted with fana, which means "annihilation" or the dissolution of the self. While fana represents the merging of the individual soul with the divine, baqa signifies the continued existence of the soul in a state of unity with God. This duality highlights the spiritual journey towards achieving a lasting connection with the divine.