Welcome to F.I.E.L.D.- the First Ismaili Electronic Library and Database.

JINN

Encyclopaedia of Ismailism by Mumtaz Ali Tajddin

"The word jinn is derived from janna, meaning he covered or concealed. It is also said to have derived from idjtinan, meaning to be hidden or concealed. The origin of jinn is said to be fire, and their function is described as that of exciting evil passions or low desires. The Koran is explicit on both these points. As regards the creation of jinn, it says: "And the jinn We created before of intensely fire" (15:27), and again: "And He created the jinn of a flame of fire" (55:15). As regards the function of jinn, the Koran says: "The slinking devil who whispers into the hearts of men, from among the jinn and the men" (114:4-6).

God has created man with two kinds of passions, the higher which awakens in him a higher or spiritual life, and the lower which relates to his physical existence; and corresponding to these two passions there are two kinds of immaterial beings, the angels and the devils.


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