Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed's latest drama 'Barzakh' has been hitting headlines ever since its release on July 19. The six-episode series has garnered critical acclaim for its storyline, breathtaking visuals and performances, however, amid much criticism for depiction of homosexuality through one of its main characters, the drama has been pulled down from YouTube in Pakistan. 'Barzakh' released on the streaming platform ZEE5 and Zee Zindagi's official YouTube channel.
While the show has been the talk of the town for its mystical characters, the title itself has been holding the audience's interest. If you are also intrigued to know the meaning and concept behind the title 'Barzakh', you have landed at the right place.
What is Barzakh?
According to the Islamic holy book Quran, Barzakh is understood as a veil or "curtain" that lies between two entities, preventing them from interacting with one another. In the context of life's different phases, Barzakh refers to the state of existence between this worldly life and the Hereafter—a "curtain" that Allah has placed between these two realms.
The Quran, the holy book of Islam, alludes to the Barzakh several times. While not explicitly defined, verses such as those in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:99-100) suggest a period of waiting after death: "Do they not see that We have created the night for rest and the day for activity? Verily, in this are signs for people who believe. And there is a barrier between them and the Barzakh. And they will not be sent out from it until they are resurrected."
The concept of Barzakh is often depicted as a place of reckoning, where souls contemplate their actions on Earth. It's neither the harshness of Hell nor the bliss of Paradise but a state of anticipation. However, the exact nature of Barzakh remains a subject of interpretation and debate among Islamic scholars.
This concept is explicitly mentioned in the Holy Qur'an, where it states, "Before them is a barrier (Barzakh) until the Day they are raised" (23:100). This verse clearly indicates that life continues after death, but before the Day of Judgment."
Barzakh: The Allegorical World
The period of Barzakh is referred to as the Allegorical World because, while it resembles our present world in shape and form, it is different in substance and matter. As per the Holy Quran and religious scholars, in this phase, our bodies will also be allegorical (Misaali), meaning they will physically appear similar to how they do in this world but will exist independently of matter. These allegorical bodies are described as being transparent, more pleasant, and lighter than air, unencumbered by the barriers that limit us in the material world.
About Barzakh Series
'Barzakh' is a 2024 Pakistani fantasy drama television series directed and written by Asim Abbasi. The series features Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, M Fawad Khan and Salman Shahid in the lead roles. Consisting of six episodes, the series premiered on July 19, 2024. It is produced by Waqas Hassan and Shailja Kejriwal for Zindagi, the Indian subcontinent-focused programming block on the streaming platform ZEE5 Global.
How the drama uses the concept of Barzakh
The show offers a contemporary interpretation of the ancient concept of Barzakh. It blends elements of mystical realism with the traditional understanding of Barzakh to create a narrative that is both haunting and thought-provoking. While the series doesn't adhere strictly to Islamic doctrine, it undeniably draws inspiration from the core idea of a liminal space between life and death.
The drama's exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships is set against the backdrop of a world that blurs the lines between reality and the supernatural. This approach allows the series to delve into the psychological and emotional impact of death while also engaging with the metaphysical questions raised by the concept of Barzakh.
By reimagining the Barzakh as a physical and emotional landscape, the drama invites viewers to contemplate their own mortality and the nature of existence. It's a testament to the enduring power of the concept that it can be adapted to resonate with contemporary audiences while still maintaining its spiritual depth.
While the series' portrayal of Barzakh might not align perfectly with traditional Islamic interpretations, it undoubtedly stimulates discussion and reflection on the profound questions raised by this concept. It serves as a reminder that the human imagination has always been drawn to the mystery of what lies beyond the veil of life.