Seraje Monir

Analysis and Critique of the Popular Belief of the Torment of Sayyids in Zamharir, Based on the Quran and Narrations

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Elham OSTADI 1
Hesamoddin Khalatbari limaki 2

1 University professor

2 Assistant Professor of Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22054/ajsm.2026.85548.2128
Abstract
This paper investigates the concept of "Zamharir" in Islamic sources (Quran and narrations), critically analyzing the popular belief in its existence as a cold place of punishment for sinners, particularly Sayyids. Employing a library-based method and descriptive-analytical approach, it examines the linguistic roots and sociological context of this belief, emphasizing the analysis of narrations to present the accurate Islamic perspective. The findings reveal that the term "Zamharir" appears only once in the Quran (Surah Al-Insan, 76:13), referring to the reward of the righteous in Paradise, not punishment. While numerous narrations, especially from Sunni sources, mention Zamharir and its characteristics, most are weak in their chain of transmission and problematic in content. Even assuming their authenticity, no evidence supports the notion of Zamharir as a specifically cold place of torment for sinners, let alone exclusively for Sayyids. At most, narrations describe it as a cold place of punishment in general. Ultimately, this popular belief contradicts religious teachings and reason, as Quranic verses concerning punishment are general and inclusive of all individuals.

Keywords

Qur'an
Hadith
Zamharir
torment
Sadat
Subjects
Seraje Monir

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 October 2026

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