what is jinn?
Based on the provided tafsir, the Jinn are a distinct creation of Allah, separate from angels and humans.
1. **Nature of Creation**: Iblis, who was of the Jinn, was created from "smokeless fire" (`mārijin min nār`), whereas angels were created from light and Adam from clay (Source 2). This distinction is affirmed by a Hadith from `A'ishah.
2. **Origin**: Al-Hasan Al-Basri stated that "Iblis was not one of the angels, not even for a second. He was the origin of the Jinn just as Adam, upon him be peace, was the origin of mankind" (Source 2). This indicates the Jinn are a separate species with their own progenitor.
3. **Behavior and Accountability**: Although Iblis "used to do what the angels did and resembled them in their devotion and worship," he ultimately disobeyed Allah's command to prostrate to Adam (Source 2). This act of disobedience (`fasaqa`) signifies "stepping beyond the bounds of obedience to Allah," demonstrating that Jinn possess free will, unlike angels (Source 3). The Quranic verse 18:50 explicitly states, "He was of the Jinn and departed from the command of his Lord."
In summary, Jinn are sentient beings created from fire, possessing free will, and distinct from both angels and humans.
📚 Sources: Classical tafsir (multi-source)