Investigating the 99 Names of God – Join islam
Most Muslims are familiar with the list of the 99 names of God. The Quran actually specifies more names than this, but for the sake of this article, I want to look at where these names can be found with respect to the Quran and highlight some issues with this list of names. Below is the list of 99 names.
Next to each name, in the leftmost column, it references a verse that utilizes the name specified. The verses with an ( * ) next to them are ones where the exact form of the name is not found in the Quran, but either another form of that name is found, or a reference to God possessing that quality appears. In total, 36 names fall under this category.
Nine of the words do not have any reference to God in the Quran, in which a ( ? ) is placed for the verse number. These nine names are the following:
- #22, AL-KHAAFIDH ( ٱلْخَافِضُ ) = The Reducer, The Lowerer
- #29, Al-‘ADL ( ٱلْعَدْلُ ) = The Fair, The Equitable
- #71, AL-MUQADDIM ( ٱلْمُقَدِّمُ ) = The Expediter, The Promoter
- #86, AL-MUQSIT ( ٱلْمُقْسِطُ ) = The Equitable, The Just
- #90, AL-MANI’ ( ٱلْمَانِعُ ) = The Withholder, Preventer
- #91, AD-DHARR ( ٱلْضَّارُ ) = The Distresser (Hardship)
- #92, AN-NAFI’ ( ٱلْنَّافِعُ ) = The Benefactor
- #93, AN-NUR ( ٱلْنُّورُ ) = The Light, The Illuminator
- #99, AS-SABOOR ( ٱلْصَّبُورُ ) = The Steadfast, The Patient
More details regarding the names that fall under these two categories ( * and ? ) are discussed below.
# | Name | Transliteration | Meaning | Quran |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | ٱلرَّحْمَـٰنُ | AR-RAHMAAN | Most Gracious | 1:1 |
2 | ٱلرَّحِيمُ | AR-RAHEEM | Most Merciful | 1:1 |
3 | ٱلْمَلِكُ | AL-MALIK | Master | 1:3 |
4 | ٱلْقُدُّوسُ | AL-QUDDUS | Most Sacred | 59:23 |
5 | ٱلْسَّلَامُ | AS-SALAM | The Peace | 59:23 |
6 | ٱلْمُؤْمِنُ | AL-MU’MIN | Most Faithful | 59:23 |
7 | ٱلْمُهَيْمِنُ | AL-MUHAYMIN | The Guardian / The Supreme | 59:23 |
8 | ٱلْعَزِيزُ | AL-AZEEZ | The Almighty | 2:129 |
9 | ٱلْجَبَّارُ | AL-JABBAR | Most Powerful | 59:23 |
10 | ٱلْمُتَكَبِّرُ | AL-MUTAKABBIR | The Supreme / Most Dignified | 59:23 |
11 | ٱلْخَـٰلِقُ | AL-KHAALIQ | The Creator | 59:24 |
12 | ٱلْبَارِئُ | AL-BAARI’ | The Originator | 2:54* |
13 | ٱلْمُصَوِّرُ | AL-MUSAWWIR | The Designer | 59:24 |
14 | ٱلْغَفُورُ | AL-GHAFFAR | The All- and Oft-Forgiving | 10:107 |
15 | ٱلْقَاهِرُ | AL-QAHHIR | The Supreme | 6:18 |
16 | ٱلْوَهَّابُ | AL-WAHHAAB | The Grantor | 3:8 |
17 | ٱلرَّزَّاقُ | AR-RAZZAAQ | The Provider | 51:58 |
18 | ٱلْفَتَّاحُ | AL-FATTAAH | The Judge | 34:26 |
19 | ٱلْعَلِيمُ | AL-‘ALEEM | The All-Knowing, The Omniscient | 2:32 |
20 | ٱلْقَابِضُ | AL-QAABID | The Withholder | 2:245* |
21 | ٱلْبَاسِطُ | AL-BAASIT | The Extender | 34:39* |
22 | ٱلْخَافِضُ | AL-KHAAFIDH | The Lowerer | ? |
23 | ٱلْرَّافِعُ | AR-RAAFI’ | The Exalter, The Elevator | 40:15* |
24 | ٱلْمُعِزُّ | AL-MU’IZZ | The Glory | 6:143* |
25 | ٱلْمُذِلُّ | AL-MUZIL | The Dishonourer, The Humiliator | 3:26* |
26 | ٱلسَّمِيعُ | AS-SAMEE’ | The Hearer | 2:127 |
27 | ٱلْبَصِيرُ | AL-BASEER | The Seer | 17:1 |
28 | ٱلْحَكَمُ | AL-HAKAM | The Judge | 16:124* |
29 | ٱلْعَدْلُ | AL-‘ADL | The Fair, The Equitable | ? |
30 | ٱللَّطِيفُ | AL-LATEEF | The Subtle One, The Most Gentle | 6:103 |
31 | ٱلْخَبِيرُ | AL-KHABEER | The Cognizant, the All-Aware | 6:18 |
32 | ٱلْحَلِيمُ | AL-HALEEM | The Clement | 2:225* |
33 | ٱلْعَظِيمُ | AL-‘ATHEEM | The Great | 2:255 |
34 | ٱلْغَفُورُ | AL-GHAFOOR | The Forgiver | 10:107 |
35 | ٱلْشَّكُورُ | ASH-SHAKOOR | The Appreciative | 2:158* |
36 | ٱلْعَلِيُّ | AL-‘ALEE | The Most High, The Exalted | 2:255 |
37 | ٱلْكَبِيرُ | AL-KABEER | Most Great | 34:23 |
38 | ٱلْحَفِيظُ | AL-HAFEEDH | The Protector | 12:64* |
39 | ٱلْمُقِيتُ | AL-MUQEET | The Controller of Distributions | 4:85* |
40 | ٱلْحَسِيبُ | AL-HASEEB | The Reckoner, The Sufficient | 4:86* |
41 | ٱلْجَلِيلُ | AL-JALEEL | The Majestic | 55:27* |
42 | ٱلْكَرِيمُ | AL-KAREEM | The Most Generous, The Most Honorable | 82:6 |
43 | ٱلْرَّقِيبُ | AR-RAQEEB | The Watchful | 5:117 |
44 | ٱلْمُجِيبُ | AL-MUJEEB | The Responsive One | 2:186* |
45 | ٱلْوَاسِعُ | AL-WAASI’ | The All-Encompassing, the Boundless | 2:268* |
46 | ٱلْحَكِيمُ | AL-HAKEEM | Most Wise | 2:32 |
47 | ٱلْوَدُودُ | AL-WADOOD | The Most Loving | 85:14 |
48 | ٱلْمَجِيدُ | AL-MAJEED | The Glorious, The Most Honorable | 11:73* |
49 | ٱلْبَاعِثُ | AL-BA’ITH | The Resurrector | 16:38* |
50 | ٱلْشَّهِيدُ | ASH-SHAHEED | The All Witnessing | 5:117* |
51 | ٱلْحَقُّ | AL-HAQQ | The Truth | 31:30 |
52 | ٱلْوَكِيلُ | AL-WAKEEL | The Trustee, The Disposer of Affairs | 3:173 |
53 | ٱلْقَوِىُّ | AL-QAWIYY | The All-Strong | 11:66 |
54 | ٱلْمَتِينُ | AL-MATEEN | The Firm, The Steadfast | 51:58 |
55 | ٱلْوَلِىُّ | AL-WALIYY | The Protecting Associate | 42:28 |
56 | ٱلْحَمِيدُ | AL-HAMEED | The Praiseworthy | 31:26 |
57 | ٱلْمُحْصِيُ | AL-MUHSEE | The All-Enumerating, The Counter | 58:6* |
58 | ٱلْمُبْدِئُ | AL-MUBDI | The Originator, The Initiator | 29:19* |
59 | ٱلْمُعِيدُ | AL-MU’ID | The Restorer, The Reinstater | 10:4 |
60 | ٱلْمُحْيِى | AL-MUHYEE | The Giver of Life | 40:68* |
61 | ٱلْمُمِيتُ | AL-MUMEET | The Bringer of Death, the Destroyer | 40:68* |
62 | ٱلْحَىُّ | AL-HAYY | The Living | 2:255 |
63 | ٱلْقَيُّومُ | AL-QAYYOOM | The Eternal | 2:255 |
64 | ٱلْوَاجِدُ | AL-WAAJID | The Finder | 93:7* |
65 | ٱلْمَاجِدُ | AL-MAAJID | The Illustrious, the Magnificent | 11:73* |
66 | ٱلْوَٰحِدُ | AL-WAAHID | The One | 39:4 |
67 | ٱلْأَحَد | AL-AHAD | The Unique, The Only One | 112:1* |
68 | ٱلْصَّمَدُ | AS-SAMAD | The Absolute | 112:2 |
69 | ٱلْقَادِرُ | AL-QADIR | The Capable, The Powerful | 6:65 |
70 | ٱلْمُقْتَدِرُ | AL-MUQTADIR | The Omnipotent, All Able | 54:42* |
71 | ٱلْمُقَدِّمُ | AL-MUQADDIM | The Expediter, The Promoter | ? |
72 | ٱلْمُؤَخِّرُ | AL-MU’AKHKHIR | The Respiter | 14:42* |
73 | ٱلْأَوَّلُ | AL-AWWAL | The First | 57:3 |
74 | وَٱلْـَٔاخِرُ | AL-AAKHIR | The Last | 57:3 |
75 | وَٱلظَّـٰهِرُ | AZ-DHAAHIR | The Manifest, The Outermost | 57:3 |
76 | ٱلْبَاطِنُ | AL-BAATIN | The Hidden One, The Innermost | 57:3 |
77 | ٱلْوَالِي | AL-WAALI | The Protector, Lord and Master | 42:28 |
78 | ٱلْمُتَعَالِي | AL-MUTA’ALI | The Most Exalted | 13:9* |
79 | ٱلْبَرُّ | AL-BARR | The Source of Goodness, the Kind Benefactor | 52:28 |
80 | ٱلتَّوَّابُ | AT-TAWWAB | The Ever-Pardoning, The Relenting | 2:37 |
81 | ٱلْمُنْتَقِمُ | AL-MUNTAQIM | The Avenger | 3:4* |
82 | ٱلْعَفُوُّ | AL-‘AFUWW | The Pardoner | 4:149* |
83 | ٱلْرَّؤُفُ | AR-RA’OOF | The Most Kind | 9:117* |
84 | مَالِكُ ٱلْمُلْكُ | MAALIK-UL-MULK | Possesor of all sovereignity | 3:26 |
85 | ذُو ٱلْجَلَالِ وَٱلْإِكْرَامُ | DHUL-JALAALI WAL-IKRAAM | Possessor of Glory and Honor | 55:27 |
86 | ٱلْمُقْسِطُ | AL-MUQSIT | The Equitable, The Just | ? |
87 | ٱلْجَامِعُ | AL-JAAMI’ | The Gatherer, the Uniter | 64:9 |
88 | ٱلْغَنيُّ | AL-GHANIYY | The Self-Sufficient, The Rich | 35:15 |
89 | ٱلْمُغْنِيُّ | AL-MUGHNI | The Enricher | 9:28 |
90 | ٱلْمَانِعُ | AL-MANI’ | The Withholder, Preventer | ? |
91 | ٱلْضَّارُ | AD-DHARR | The Distresser (Hardship) | ? |
92 | ٱلْنَّافِعُ | AN-NAFI’ | The Benefactor | ? |
93 | ٱلْنُّورُ | AN-NUR | The Light, The Illuminator | 24:35? |
94 | ٱلْهَادِي | AL-HAADI | The Guide | 27:63* |
95 | ٱلْبَدِيعُ | AL-BADEE’ | The Originator | 2:117* |
96 | ٱلْبَاقِي | AL-BAAQI | The Ever-Surviving, The Everlasting | 20:73* |
97 | ٱلْوَارِثُ | AL-WAARITH | The Inheritor, The Heir | 3:180* |
98 | ٱلْرَّشِيدُ | AR-RASHEED | The Guide, Infallible Teacher | 57:10* |
99 | ٱلْصَّبُورُ | AS-SABOOR | The Steadfast, The Patient | ? |
Names (*)
#12 Al-Barri’ ( ٱلْبَارِئُ ) = The Creator / Initiator
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we do see the term “your Creator” (barri’kum / بَارِئِكُمْ ) referecned twice in the following verse when Moses addressed the Children of Israel:
[2:54] Recall that Moses said to his people, “O my people, you have wronged your souls by worshiping the calf. You must repent to your Creator. You shall kill your egos. This is better for you in the sight of your Creator.” He did redeem you. He is the Redeemer, Most Merciful.
وَإِذْ قَالَ مُوسَىٰ لِقَوْمِهِۦ يَـٰقَوْمِ إِنَّكُمْ ظَلَمْتُمْ أَنفُسَكُم بِٱتِّخَاذِكُمُ ٱلْعِجْلَ فَتُوبُوٓا۟ إِلَىٰ بَارِئِكُمْ فَٱقْتُلُوٓا۟ أَنفُسَكُمْ ذَٰلِكُمْ خَيْرٌ لَّكُمْ عِندَ بَارِئِكُمْ فَتَابَ عَلَيْكُمْ إِنَّهُۥ هُوَ ٱلتَّوَّابُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ
#20 AL-QAABID ( ٱلْقَابِضُ ) = The Witholder
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who withholds in the following verse through the term (yaqbiḍu/ يَقْبِضُ ):
[2:245] Who would lend GOD a loan of righteousness, to have it repaid to them multiplied manifold? GOD is the One who provides and withholds, and to Him you will be returned.
مَّن ذَا ٱلَّذِى يُقْرِضُ ٱللَّهَ قَرْضًا حَسَنًا فَيُضَـٰعِفَهُۥ لَهُۥٓ أَضْعَافًا كَثِيرَةً وَٱللَّهُ يَقْبِضُ وَيَبْصُۜطُ وَإِلَيْهِ تُرْجَعُونَ
#21 Al-Bassat ( ٱلْبَاسِطُ ) = The Extender / The Increaser
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who increases in the following verses: 2:245, 28:82, 39:52, 30:37, 17:30, 13:26, 34:36, 34:49, 29:62, 42:12.
[39:52] Do they not realize that GOD is the One who increases the provision for whomever He chooses, and withholds? These are lessons for people who believe.
(٥٢) أَوَلَمْ يَعْلَمُوٓا۟ أَنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَبْسُطُ ٱلرِّزْقَ لِمَن يَشَآءُ وَيَقْدِرُ إِنَّ فِى ذَٰلِكَ لَـَٔايَـٰتٍ لِّقَوْمٍ يُؤْمِنُونَ
#23 AR-RAAFI’ ( ٱلْرَّافِعُ ) = The Exalter / The Elevator
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who raises and exalts in the following verses: 2:253, 4:158, 6:165, 13:2, 35:10, 40:15 (ranks), 55:7, 58:11, 79:28.
[58:11] O you who believe, if you are told, “Please make room,” you shall make room for each other to sit. GOD will then make room for you. If you are asked to get up and move, get up and move. GOD raises those among you who believe, and those who acquire knowledge to higher ranks. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.
يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِذَا قِيلَ لَكُمْ تَفَسَّحُوا۟ فِى ٱلْمَجَـٰلِسِ فَٱفْسَحُوا۟ يَفْسَحِ ٱللَّهُ لَكُمْ وَإِذَا قِيلَ ٱنشُزُوا۟ فَٱنشُزُوا۟ يَرْفَعِ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ مِنكُمْ وَٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوا۟ ٱلْعِلْمَ دَرَجَـٰتٍ وَٱللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ خَبِيرٌ
#24 AL-MU’IZZ ( ٱلْمُعِزُّ ) = The Honor
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who Honors who He wills:
[3:26] Say, “Our god: possessor of all sovereignty. You grant sovereignty to whomever You choose, You remove sovereignty from whomever You choose. You grant dignity to whomever You choose, and commit to humiliation whomever You choose. In Your hand are all provisions. You are Omnipotent.
(٢٦) قُلِ ٱللَّهُمَّ مَـٰلِكَ ٱلْمُلْكِ تُؤْتِى ٱلْمُلْكَ مَن تَشَآءُ وَتَنزِعُ ٱلْمُلْكَ مِمَّن تَشَآءُ وَتُعِزُّ مَن تَشَآءُ وَتُذِلُّ مَن تَشَآءُ بِيَدِكَ ٱلْخَيْرُ إِنَّكَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
13 | watuʿizzu | وَتُعِزُّ | and You honor |
14 | man | مَن | whom |
15 | tashāu | تَشَآءُ | You will, |
#25 AL-MUZIL ( ٱلْمُذِلُّ ) = The Dishonourer, The Humiliator
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God humiliates or dishonors whom He wills in the following verse.
[3:26] Say, “Our god: possessor of all sovereignty. You grant sovereignty to whomever You choose, You remove sovereignty from whomever You choose. You grant dignity to whomever You choose, and commit to humiliation whomever You choose. In Your hand are all provisions. You are Omnipotent.
(٢٦) قُلِ ٱللَّهُمَّ مَـٰلِكَ ٱلْمُلْكِ تُؤْتِى ٱلْمُلْكَ مَن تَشَآءُ وَتَنزِعُ ٱلْمُلْكَ مِمَّن تَشَآءُ وَتُعِزُّ مَن تَشَآءُ وَتُذِلُّ مَن تَشَآءُ بِيَدِكَ ٱلْخَيْرُ إِنَّكَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
16 | watudhillu | وَتُذِلُّ | and You humiliate |
17 | man | مَن | whom |
18 | tashāu | تَشَآءُ | You will. |
#28 Al-HAKAM ( ٱلْحَكَمُ ) = The Judge
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who judges in the following verse:
[16:124] The Sabbath was decreed only for those who ended up disputing it (Jews & Christians). Your Lord is the One who will judge them on the Day of Resurrection regarding their disputes.
(١٢٤) إِنَّمَا جُعِلَ ٱلسَّبْتُ عَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ ٱخْتَلَفُوا۟ فِيهِ وَإِنَّ رَبَّكَ لَيَحْكُمُ بَيْنَهُمْ يَوْمَ ٱلْقِيَـٰمَةِ فِيمَا كَانُوا۟ فِيهِ يَخْتَلِفُونَ
#32 AL-HALEEM ( ٱلْحَلِيمُ ) = The Clement
The name AL-HALEEM ( ٱلْحَلِيمُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article. But the attribute is used toward God twelve times without the definitive article.
ḥalīman | حَلِيمًا | Clement, | 17:44 |
ḥalīman | حَلِيمًا | Clement, | 35:41 |
ḥalīman | حَلِيمًا | Clement. | 33:51 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | Clement. | 4:12 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | Clement. | 22:59 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | Clement. | 2:235 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | Clement. | 3:155 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | Clement. | 2:263 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | Clement. | 5:101 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | clement. | 9:114 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | Clement. | 64:17 |
ḥalīmun | حَلِيمٌ | Clement. | 2:225 |
The only time we see this word used with the definitive article in the Quran is by the disbelieving people of Shu’aib towards him.
[11:87] They said, “O Shu’aib, does your religion dictate upon you that we must abandon our parents’ religion, or running our businesses in any manner we choose? Surely, you are known for being clement, wise.”
(٨٧) قَالُوا۟ يَـٰشُعَيْبُ أَصَلَوٰتُكَ تَأْمُرُكَ أَن نَّتْرُكَ مَا يَعْبُدُ ءَابَآؤُنَآ أَوْ أَن نَّفْعَلَ فِىٓ أَمْوَٰلِنَا مَا نَشَـٰٓؤُا۟ إِنَّكَ لَأَنتَ ٱلْحَلِيمُ ٱلرَّشِيدُ
#35 ASH-SHAKOOR ( ٱلْشَّكُورُ ) = The Appreciative
The name ASH-SHAKOOR ( ٱلْشَّكُورُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article. But the attribute is used toward God seven times without the definitive article.
shākiran | شَاكِرًا | Appreciative, | 4:147 |
shākiran | شَاكِرًا | Appreciative | 16:121 |
shākirun | شَاكِرٌ | Appreciative | 2:158 |
shākirun | شَاكِرٌ | Appreciative | 42:23 |
shākirun | شَاكِرٌ | Appreciative | 35:30 |
shākirun | شَاكِرٌ | Appreciative | 35:34 |
shākirun | شَاكِرٌ | Appreciative | 64:17 |
The only time we see this word used with the definitive article is towards God’s servants.
[34:13] They made for him anything he wanted—niches, statues, deep pools, and heavy cooking pots. O family of David, work (righteousness) to show your appreciation. Only a few of My servants are appreciative.
(١٣) يَعْمَلُونَ لَهُۥ مَا يَشَآءُ مِن مَّحَـٰرِيبَ وَتَمَـٰثِيلَ وَجِفَانٍ كَٱلْجَوَابِ وَقُدُورٍ رَّاسِيَـٰتٍ ٱعْمَلُوٓا۟ ءَالَ دَاوُۥدَ شُكْرًا وَقَلِيلٌ مِّنْ عِبَادِىَ ٱلشَّكُورُ
#38 AL-HAFEEDH ( ٱلْحَفِيظُ ) = The Protector, Guardian
The name AL-HAFEEDH ( ٱلْحَفِيظُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article. But the attribute is used toward God twelve twice without the definitive article in 11:57, 12:64, 42:6, 34:21 and also as an action God provides in 4:34.
[34:21] He never had any power over them. But we thus distinguish those who believe in the Hereafter from those who are doubtful about it. Your Lord is a Guardian of all things.
(٢١) وَمَا كَانَ لَهُۥ عَلَيْهِم مِّن سُلْطَـٰنٍ إِلَّا لِنَعْلَمَ مَن يُؤْمِنُ بِٱلْـَٔاخِرَةِ مِمَّنْ هُوَ مِنْهَا فِى شَكٍّ وَرَبُّكَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍ حَفِيظٌ
17 | warabbuka | وَرَبُّكَ | And your Lord |
18 | ʿalā | عَلَىٰ | over |
19 | kulli | كُلِّ | all |
20 | shayin | شَىْءٍ | thing(s) |
21 | ḥafīẓun | حَفِيظٌ | a Guardian / Protector. |
#39 AL-MUQEET ( ٱلْمُقِيتُ ) = The Controller of Distributions
The name AL-MUQEET ( ٱلْمُقِيتُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article. The attribute without the definitive article is only used once in the Quran towards God in the following verse.
[4:85] Whoever mediates a good deed receives a share of the credit thereof, and whoever mediates an evil work, incurs a share thereof. GOD controls all things.(٨٥) مَّن يَشْفَعْ شَفَـٰعَةً حَسَنَةً يَكُن لَّهُۥ نَصِيبٌ مِّنْهَا وَمَن يَشْفَعْ شَفَـٰعَةً سَيِّئَةً يَكُن لَّهُۥ كِفْلٌ مِّنْهَا وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍ مُّقِيتًا
17 | wakāna | وَكَانَ | And [He] is |
18 | l-lahu | ٱللَّهُ | God |
19 | ʿalā | عَلَىٰ | over |
20 | kulli | كُلِّ | every |
21 | shayin | شَىْءٍ | thing |
22 | muqītan | مُّقِيتًا | a Controller of Distributions. |
#40 AL-HASEEB ( ٱلْحَسِيبُ ) = The Reckoner, The Sufficient
The name AL-HASEEB ( ٱلْحَسِيبُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article. The attribute without the definitive article is only used once in the Quran towards God in the following verse.
ḥasīban | حَسِيبًا | a Reckoner. | 4:86 |
ḥasīban | حَسِيبًا | a Reckoner. | 33:39 |
ḥasīban | حَسِيبًا | a Reckoner. | 4:6 |
#41 AL-JALEEL ( ٱلْجَلِيلُ ) = The Majestic
The name AL-JALEEL ( ٱلْجَلِيلُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God. Instead, the following verses state that God is the Possessor of Majesty.
[55:27] Only the presence of your Lord lasts. Possessor of Majesty and Honor.
(٢٧) وَيَبْقَىٰ وَجْهُ رَبِّكَ ذُو ٱلْجَلَـٰلِ وَٱلْإِكْرَامِ
[55:78] Most exalted is the name of your Lord, Possessor of Majesty and Honor.
(٧٨) تَبَـٰرَكَ ٱسْمُ رَبِّكَ ذِى ٱلْجَلَـٰلِ وَٱلْإِكْرَامِ
#44 AL-MUJEEB ( ٱلْمُجِيبُ ) = The Responder
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who responds to our calls and prayers.
[2:186] When My servants ask you about Me, I am always near. I answer their prayers when they pray to Me. The people shall respond to Me and believe in Me, in order to be guided.
(١٨٦) وَإِذَا سَأَلَكَ عِبَادِى عَنِّى فَإِنِّى قَرِيبٌ أُجِيبُ دَعْوَةَ ٱلدَّاعِ إِذَا دَعَانِ فَلْيَسْتَجِيبُوا۟ لِى وَلْيُؤْمِنُوا۟ بِى لَعَلَّهُمْ يَرْشُدُونَ
1 | wa-idhā | وَإِذَا | And when [in the future] |
2 | sa-alaka | سَأَلَكَ | [he] asked you |
3 | ʿibādī | عِبَادِى | My servants |
4 | ʿannī | عَنِّى | about Me, |
5 | fa-innī | فَإِنِّى | then indeed I am |
6 | qarībun | قَرِيبٌ | near. |
7 | ujību | أُجِيبُ | I respond / answer |
8 | daʿwata | دَعْوَةَ | (the) prayers (of) |
9 | l-dāʿi | ٱلدَّاعِ | the caller |
10 | idhā | إِذَا | when |
11 | daʿāni | دَعَانِ | he called Me. |
#45 Al-WAASi’ ( ٱلْوَاسِعُ ) = All Encompassing
The name Al-WAASi’ ( ٱلْوَاسِعُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but the form is used eight times in the Quran towards God without the definitive article.
wāsiʿan | وَٰسِعًا | All-Encompassing / Bounteous, | 4:130 |
wāsiʿun | وَٰسِعٌ | All-Encompassing / Omnipresent, | 2:115 |
wāsiʿun | وَٰسِعٌ | All-Encompassing / Bounteous, | 2:261 |
wāsiʿun | وَٰسِعٌ | All-Encompassing / Bounteous, | 2:247 |
wāsiʿun | وَٰسِعٌ | All-Encompassing / Bounteous, | 5:54 |
wāsiʿun | وَٰسِعٌ | All-Encompassing / Bounteous, | 3:73 |
wāsiʿun | وَٰسِعٌ | All-Encompassing / Bounteous, | 24:32 |
wāsiʿun | وَٰسِعٌ | All-Encompassing / Bounteous, | 2:268 |
#48 Al-Majeed ( ٱلْمَجِيدُ ) = The Glorious
The name Al-Majeed ( ٱلْمَجِيدُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but we find the form ( مَّجِيدٌ ) towards God in the following verse.
[11:73] They said, “Do you find it strange for GOD? GOD has bestowed His mercy and blessings upon you, O inhabitants of the shrine. He is Praiseworthy, Glorious.”
(٧٣) قَالُوٓا۟ أَتَعْجَبِينَ مِنْ أَمْرِ ٱللَّهِ رَحْمَتُ ٱللَّهِ وَبَرَكَـٰتُهُۥ عَلَيْكُمْ أَهْلَ ٱلْبَيْتِ إِنَّهُۥ حَمِيدٌ مَّجِيدٌ
It is worth mentioning that this root is only used four times in the Quran. Two of these other occurrences use the definitive article ( ٱلْمَجِيدِ ) and are used to describe the Quran (50:1, 85:15), while the third occurrence is used to describe God’s throne (85:21).
#49 Al-Ba’ith ( ٱلْبَاعِثُ ) = The Ressurector
The name Al-Majeed ( ٱلْمَجِيدُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but we see that God is the One who resurrects the dead.
[6:36] The only ones to respond are those who listen. GOD resurrects the dead; they ultimately return to Him.
(٣٦) إِنَّمَا يَسْتَجِيبُ ٱلَّذِينَ يَسْمَعُونَ وَٱلْمَوْتَىٰ يَبْعَثُهُمُ ٱللَّهُ ثُمَّ إِلَيْهِ يُرْجَعُونَ
#50 ASH-SHAHEED ( ٱلْشَّهِيدُ ) = The Witness
The name ASH-SHAHEED ( ٱلْشَّهِيدُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but we see the following form ( شَهِيدٌ ) used in 5:117.
[5:117] “I told them only what You commanded me to say, that: ‘You shall worship GOD, my Lord and your Lord.’ I was a witness among them for as long as I lived with them. When You terminated my life on earth, You became the Watcher over them. You witness all things.
مَا قُلْتُ لَهُمْ إِلَّا مَآ أَمَرْتَنِى بِهِۦٓ أَنِ ٱعْبُدُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ رَبِّى وَرَبَّكُمْ وَكُنتُ عَلَيْهِمْ شَهِيدًا مَّا دُمْتُ فِيهِمْ فَلَمَّا تَوَفَّيْتَنِى كُنتَ أَنتَ ٱلرَّقِيبَ عَلَيْهِمْ وَأَنتَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍ شَهِيدٌ
#57 AL-MUHSEE ( ٱلْمُحْصِيُ ) = The All-Enumerating, The Counter
The name AL-MUHSEE ( ٱلْمُحْصِيُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but we see the following form ( أَحْصَىٰهُمْ and أَحْصَىٰهُ and وَأَحْصَىٰ ) used in 19:94, 58:6, 72:28.
[72:28] This is to ascertain that they have delivered their Lord’s messages. He is fully aware of what they have. He has counted the numbers of all things.
(٢٨) لِّيَعْلَمَ أَن قَدْ أَبْلَغُوا۟ رِسَـٰلَـٰتِ رَبِّهِمْ وَأَحَاطَ بِمَا لَدَيْهِمْ وَأَحْصَىٰ كُلَّ شَىْءٍ عَدَدًۢا
#58 AL-MUBDI ( ٱلْمُبْدِئُ ) = The Initiator
The name AL-MUBDI ( ٱلْمُبْدِئُ ) is not used in the Quran as a name of God, but we see that God initiates in the following verses: 29:20, 7:29, 32:7, 10:34, 30:27
bada-a | بَدَأَ | He initiated | 29:20 |
bada-akum | بَدَأَكُمْ | He initiated you [all], | 7:29 |
wabada-a | وَبَدَأَ | and He started | 32:7 |
yabda-u | يَبْدَؤُا۟ | [He] initiates | 10:34 |
yabda-u | يَبْدَؤُا۟ | [He] initiates | 30:27 |
yabda-u | يَبْدَؤُا۟ | [He] initiates | 27:64 |
yabda-u | يَبْدَؤُا۟ | [He] initiates | 30:11 |
yabda-u | يَبْدَؤُا۟ | [He] initiates | 10:4 |
yub’di-u | يُبْدِئُ | [He] initiates | 29:19 |
yub’di-u | يُبْدِئُ | [He] initiates | 85:13 |
[29:19] Have they not seen how GOD initiates the creation, then repeats it? This is easy for GOD to do.
(١٩) أَوَلَمْ يَرَوْا۟ كَيْفَ يُبْدِئُ ٱللَّهُ ٱلْخَلْقَ ثُمَّ يُعِيدُهُۥٓ إِنَّ ذَٰلِكَ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ يَسِيرٌ
#59 AL-MU’ID ( ٱلْمُعِيدُ ) = The Restorer, The Reinstater
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who repeats the creation:
[10:4] To Him is your ultimate return, all of you. This is GOD’s truthful promise. He initiates the creation, then He repeats it, in order to reward those who believe and lead a righteous life, equitably. As for those who disbelieve, they incur hellish drinks, and a painful retribution for their disbelieving.
إِلَيْهِ مَرْجِعُكُمْ جَمِيعًا وَعْدَ ٱللَّهِ حَقًّا إِنَّهُۥ يَبْدَؤُا۟ ٱلْخَلْقَ ثُمَّ يُعِيدُهُۥ لِيَجْزِىَ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَعَمِلُوا۟ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ بِٱلْقِسْطِ وَٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا۟ لَهُمْ شَرَابٌ مِّنْ حَمِيمٍ وَعَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌۢ بِمَا كَانُوا۟ يَكْفُرُونَ
#60 Al-Muhyee ( ٱلْمُحْيِى ) = The Giver of Life
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who gives life:
[40:68] He is the only One who He gives life, and He causes death. To have anything done, He simply says to it, “Be,” and it is.
(٦٨) هُوَ ٱلَّذِى يُحْىِۦ وَيُمِيتُ فَإِذَا قَضَىٰٓ أَمْرًا فَإِنَّمَا يَقُولُ لَهُۥ كُن فَيَكُونُ
#61 Al-MUMEET ( ٱلْمُمِيتُ ) = The Bringer of Death
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who causes death:
[40:68] He is the only One who He gives life, and He causes death. To have anything done, He simply says to it, “Be,” and it is.
(٦٨) هُوَ ٱلَّذِى يُحْىِۦ وَيُمِيتُ فَإِذَا قَضَىٰٓ أَمْرًا فَإِنَّمَا يَقُولُ لَهُۥ كُن فَيَكُونُ
#64 AL-WAAJID ( ٱلْوَاجِدُ ) = The Finder
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who found…in the following verse.
[93:7] He found you astray, and guided you.
(٧) وَوَجَدَكَ ضَآلًّا فَهَدَىٰ
[93:8] He found you poor, and made you rich.
(٨) وَوَجَدَكَ عَآئِلًا فَأَغْنَىٰ
#65 AL-MAAJID ( ٱلْمَاجِدُ ) = The Illustrious, the Magnificent
The name MAAJID ( ٱلْمَاجِدُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but we find the form ( مَّجِيدٌ ) towards God in the following verse.
[11:73] They said, “Do you find it strange for GOD? GOD has bestowed His mercy and blessings upon you, O inhabitants of the shrine. He is Praiseworthy, Glorious.”
(٧٣) قَالُوٓا۟ أَتَعْجَبِينَ مِنْ أَمْرِ ٱللَّهِ رَحْمَتُ ٱللَّهِ وَبَرَكَـٰتُهُۥ عَلَيْكُمْ أَهْلَ ٱلْبَيْتِ إِنَّهُۥ حَمِيدٌ مَّجِيدٌ
It is worth mentioning that this root is only used four times in the Quran. Two of these other occurrences use the definitive article ( ٱلْمَجِيدِ ) and are used to describe the Quran (50:1, 85:15), while the third occurrence is used to describe God’s throne (85:21).
[50:1] Q., and the glorious Quran.
(١) قٓ وَٱلْقُرْءَانِ ٱلْمَجِيدِ
#67 AL-AHAD ( ٱلْأَحَد ) = The Only One
The name AL-AHAD ( ٱلْأَحَد ) is not used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article, but we do have the following.
[112:1] Proclaim, “He is the One and only GOD.
(١) قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ
#70 AL-MUQTADIR ( ٱلْمُقْتَدِرُ ) = All able, Omnipotent
The name AL-MUQTADIR ( ٱلْمُقْتَدِرُ ) is not used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article, but we do have the following form used ( مُّقْتَدِرٍ ) in 54:42, 54:45 and the following form ( مُّقْتَدِرًا ) in18:45.
[18:45] Cite for them the example of this life as water that we send down from the sky to produce plants of the earth, then they turn into hay that is blown away by the wind. GOD is able to do all things.
وَٱضْرِبْ لَهُم مَّثَلَ ٱلْحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنْيَا كَمَآءٍ أَنزَلْنَـٰهُ مِنَ ٱلسَّمَآءِ فَٱخْتَلَطَ بِهِۦ نَبَاتُ ٱلْأَرْضِ فَأَصْبَحَ هَشِيمًا تَذْرُوهُ ٱلرِّيَـٰحُ وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍ مُّقْتَدِرًا
#72 AL-MU’AKHKHIR ( ٱلْمُؤَخِّرُ ) = The ResPITER
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that God is the One who respites in the following verse:
yu-akhiruhum | يُؤَخِّرُهُمْ | He respites them | 14:42 |
yu-akhiruhum | يُؤَخِّرُهُمْ | He respites them | 16:61 |
yu-akhiruhum | يُؤَخِّرُهُمْ | He respites them | 35:45 |
For those who translate AL-MU’AKHKHIR ( ٱلْمُؤَخِّرُ ) as Delayer and attribute this name to God, this goes against the Quran as the Quran claims that God never delays.
[63:11] GOD never delays the appointed time of death for any soul. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.
(١١) وَلَن يُؤَخِّرَ ٱللَّهُ نَفْسًا إِذَا جَآءَ أَجَلُهَا وَٱللَّهُ خَبِيرٌۢ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ
#78 AL-MUTA’ALI ( ٱلْمُتَعَالِي ) = The Most High, The Most Exalted
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but we see that the following form ( ٱلْمُتَعَالِ ) in the below verse.
[13:9] The Knower of all secrets and declarations; the Supreme, the Most High.
(٩) عَـٰلِمُ ٱلْغَيْبِ وَٱلشَّهَـٰدَةِ ٱلْكَبِيرُ ٱلْمُتَعَالِ
#81 AL-MUNTAQIM ( ٱلْمُنْتَقِمُ ) = The Avenger
This form of the name of God does not occur in the Quran, but instead, we see the following form used four times in the Quran as God being the Possessor of Vengeance.
intiqāmin | ٱنتِقَامٍ | retribution / revenge (*Avenger). | 5:95 |
intiqāmin | ٱنتِقَامٍ | retribution / vengeance (*Avenger). | 3:4 |
intiqāmin | ٱنتِقَامٍ | revenge / retribution (*Avenger)? | 39:37 |
intiqāmin | ٱنتِقَامٍ | revenge / retribution (*Avenger). | 14:47 |
[3:4] before that, to guide the people, and He sent down the statute book. Those who disbelieve in GOD’s revelations incur severe retribution. GOD is Almighty, Possessor of vengeance.
(٤) مِن قَبْلُ هُدًى لِّلنَّاسِ وَأَنزَلَ ٱلْفُرْقَانَ إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا۟ بِـَٔايَـٰتِ ٱللَّهِ لَهُمْ عَذَابٌ شَدِيدٌ وَٱللَّهُ عَزِيزٌ ذُو ٱنتِقَامٍ
15 | wal-lahu | وَٱللَّهُ | And God (is) |
16 | ʿazīzun | عَزِيزٌ | Almighty, |
17 | dhū | ذُو | Possessor of* |
18 | intiqāmin | ٱنتِقَامٍ | retribution / vengeance (*Avenger). |
#82 AL-‘AFUWW ( ٱلْعَفُوُّ ) = The Pardoner
The name AL-‘AFUWW ( ٱلْعَفُوُّ ) is not used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article, but we do have the following form used ( عَفُوًّا ) in 4:43, 4:99, and 4:149 and the following form ( لَعَفُوٌّ ) in 22:60 and 58:2.
[22:60] It is decreed that if one avenges an injustice that was inflicted upon him, equitably, then is persecuted because of this, GOD will surely support him. GOD is Pardoner, Forgiving.
(٦٠) ذَٰلِكَ وَمَنْ عَاقَبَ بِمِثْلِ مَا عُوقِبَ بِهِۦ ثُمَّ بُغِىَ عَلَيْهِ لَيَنصُرَنَّهُ ٱللَّهُ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَعَفُوٌّ غَفُورٌ
#83 AR-RA’OOF ( ٱلْرَّؤُفُ ) = Most Compassionate
The name AR-RA’OOF ( ٱلْرَّؤُفُ ) is not used in the Quran towards God with the definitive article, but we do have the following form used towards God in other verses.
raūfun | رَءُوفٌ | Compassionate, | 59:10 |
raūfun | رَءُوفٌ | Compassionate / Kind, | 24:20 |
raūfun | رَءُوفٌ | Compassionate / Kind, | 9:117 |
raūfun | رَءُوفٌۢ | Compassionate / Kind | 3:30 |
raūfun | رَءُوفٌۢ | Compassionate | 2:207 |
laraūfun | لَرَءُوفٌ | surely Compassionate | 2:143 |
laraūfun | لَرَءُوفٌ | surely Compassionate / Kind, | 22:65 |
laraūfun | لَرَءُوفٌ | surely Compassionate, | 16:7 |
laraūfun | لَرَءُوفٌ | surely Compassionate, | 57:9 |
laraūfun | لَرَءُوفٌ | surely Compassionate, | 16:47 |
#87 AL-JAAMI’ ( ٱلْجَامِعُ ) = The Gatherer
The name AL-JAAMI’ ( ٱلْجَامِعُ ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but we see that God is the One who gathers the people on the Day of Summoning.
[64:9] The day will come when He summons you to the Day of Summoning. That is the Day of Mutual Blaming. Anyone who believes in GOD and leads a righteous life, He will remit his sins, and will admit him into gardens with flowing streams. They abide therein forever. This is the greatest triumph.
يَوْمَ يَجْمَعُكُمْ لِيَوْمِ ٱلْجَمْعِ ذَٰلِكَ يَوْمُ ٱلتَّغَابُنِ وَمَن يُؤْمِنۢ بِٱللَّهِ وَيَعْمَلْ صَـٰلِحًا يُكَفِّرْ عَنْهُ سَيِّـَٔاتِهِۦ وَيُدْخِلْهُ جَنَّـٰتٍ تَجْرِى مِن تَحْتِهَا ٱلْأَنْهَـٰرُ خَـٰلِدِينَ فِيهَآ أَبَدًا ذَٰلِكَ ٱلْفَوْزُ ٱلْعَظِيمُ
#89 AL-MUGHNI ( ٱلْمُغْنِيُّ ) = The Enricher
The name AL-MUGHNI ( ٱلْمُغْنِيُّ ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but we see that God is the One who enriches.
[9:28] O you who believe, the idol worshipers are polluted; they shall not be permitted to approach the Sacred Masjid after this year. If you fear loss of income, GOD will enrich you with His provisions, in accordance with His will. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise.
يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِنَّمَا ٱلْمُشْرِكُونَ نَجَسٌ فَلَا يَقْرَبُوا۟ ٱلْمَسْجِدَ ٱلْحَرَامَ بَعْدَ عَامِهِمْ هَـٰذَا وَإِنْ خِفْتُمْ عَيْلَةً فَسَوْفَ يُغْنِيكُمُ ٱللَّهُ مِن فَضْلِهِۦٓ إِن شَآءَ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ حَكِيمٌ
#94 AL-HAADI ( ٱلْهَادِي ) = The Guide
The name AL-HAADI ( ٱلْهَادِي ) is never used in the Quran towards God, but we see that God is the One who guides.
[27:63] Who is the One who guides you in the darkness of land and sea? Who is the One who sends the winds with good news, signaling His mercy? Is it another god with GOD? Most exalted is GOD, above having any partner.
(٦٣) أَمَّن يَهْدِيكُمْ فِى ظُلُمَـٰتِ ٱلْبَرِّ وَٱلْبَحْرِ وَمَن يُرْسِلُ ٱلرِّيَـٰحَ بُشْرًۢا بَيْنَ يَدَىْ رَحْمَتِهِۦٓ أَءِلَـٰهٌ مَّعَ ٱللَّهِ تَعَـٰلَى ٱللَّهُ عَمَّا يُشْرِكُونَ
#95 AL-BADEE’ ( ٱلْبَدِيعُ ) = The Initiator
The name AL-BADEE’ ( ٱلْبَدِيعُ ) is not used in the Quran with the definitive article towards God, but we see the following form ( بَدِيعُ ) used in 2:117 and 6:101.
[2:117] The Initiator of the heavens and the earth: to have anything done, He simply says to it, “Be,” and it is.
(١١٧) بَدِيعُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضِ وَإِذَا قَضَىٰٓ أَمْرًا فَإِنَّمَا يَقُولُ لَهُۥ كُن فَيَكُونُ
#96 AL-BAAQI = ( ٱلْبَاقِي ) = The Everlasting
The name AL-BAAQI = ( ٱلْبَاقِي ) is not used in the Quran with the definitive article towards God, but we see the following form ( وَأَبْقَىٰٓ ) used in the below verse in regards to God.
[20:73] “We have believed in our Lord, that He may forgive us our sins, and the magic that you forced us to perform. GOD is far better and Everlasting.”
(٧٣) إِنَّآ ءَامَنَّا بِرَبِّنَا لِيَغْفِرَ لَنَا خَطَـٰيَـٰنَا وَمَآ أَكْرَهْتَنَا عَلَيْهِ مِنَ ٱلسِّحْرِ وَٱللَّهُ خَيْرٌ وَأَبْقَىٰٓ
#97 AL-WAARITH ( ٱلْوَارِثُ ) = The Heir, The Inheritor
The name AL-BAAQI = ( ٱلْبَاقِي ) is not used in the Quran but we find two refernces in the Quran regarding God in the form ( مِيرَٰثُ ) in 3:180 and 57:10.
[57:10] Why do you not spend in the cause of GOD, when GOD possesses all wealth in the heavens and the earth? Distinguished from the rest are those among you who spend before the victory and strive. They attain a greater rank than those who spend after the victory and strive. For each, GOD promises salvation. GOD is Cognizant of everything you do.
وَمَا لَكُمْ أَلَّا تُنفِقُوا۟ فِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ وَلِلَّهِ مِيرَٰثُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضِ لَا يَسْتَوِى مِنكُم مَّنْ أَنفَقَ مِن قَبْلِ ٱلْفَتْحِ وَقَـٰتَلَ أُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ أَعْظَمُ دَرَجَةً مِّنَ ٱلَّذِينَ أَنفَقُوا۟ مِنۢ بَعْدُ وَقَـٰتَلُوا۟ وَكُلًّا وَعَدَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلْحُسْنَىٰ وَٱللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ خَبِيرٌ
1 | wamā | وَمَا | And what (is) |
2 | lakum | لَكُمْ | for you [all] |
3 | allā | أَلَّا | that not |
4 | tunfiqū | تُنفِقُوا۟ | you [all] spend |
5 | fī | فِى | in |
6 | sabīli | سَبِيلِ | (the) cause |
7 | l-lahi | ٱللَّهِ | (of) God, |
8 | walillahi | وَلِلَّهِ | while [for] God (is) |
9 | mīrāthu | مِيرَٰثُ | Inheritor (of) |
10 | l-samāwāti | ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ | the heavens |
11 | wal-arḍi | وَٱلْأَرْضِ | and the earth? |
Words (?)
#22 AL-KHAAFIDH ( ٱلْخَافِضُ ) = The Lowerer
This name is not used in reference to God at all in the entire Quran. The root of this word is used only four times in the Quran. Three times in reference to lowering one’s wing (15:88, 17:24, 26:215), and one time in reference to the Inevitable Event that will lower some and raise others (56:3).
#29 AL-‘ADL ( ٱلْعَدْلُ ) = The Fair, The Equitable
This attribute is not used in reference to God at all in the entire Quran. The root of this name ( ع د ل ) occurs 28 times in the Quran. The only time it is in reference to an action coming from God is in the following verse regarding the creation of the human being.
[82:7] The One who created you, designed you, and perfected you.
(٧) ٱلَّذِى خَلَقَكَ فَسَوَّىٰكَ فَعَدَلَكَ
1 | alladhī | ٱلَّذِى | The One who |
2 | khalaqaka | خَلَقَكَ | He created you, |
3 | fasawwāka | فَسَوَّىٰكَ | then He fashioned (designed) you |
4 | faʿadalaka | فَعَدَلَكَ | then He balanced (perfected) you? |
Every other occurrence of this root is also regarding human conduct and is associated with being fair and balanced. I don’t believe this is an attribute of God because I believe this is a value that God expects from humans and does not apply to Him. God is not fair and balanced because God is exponentially way more generous, forgiving, and compensating than any human will ever be or be expected to be. Consider the following verses.
[6:160] Whoever does a righteous work receives the reward for ten, and the one who commits a sin is requited for only one. No one suffers the slightest injustice.
(١٦٠) مَن جَآءَ بِٱلْحَسَنَةِ فَلَهُۥ عَشْرُ أَمْثَالِهَا وَمَن جَآءَ بِٱلسَّيِّئَةِ فَلَا يُجْزَىٰٓ إِلَّا مِثْلَهَا وَهُمْ لَا يُظْلَمُونَ
God does not expect this level of generosity from His servants, as it is our duty to be fair and equitable in our dealings, but God multiplies any good we do manifold while requiting any of our bad deeds for just one, and even then He still overlooks many of our sins.
[2:261] The example of those who spend their monies in the cause of GOD is that of a grain that produces seven spikes, with a hundred grains in each spike. GOD multiplies this manifold for whomever He wills. GOD is Bounteous, Knower.
(٢٦١) مَّثَلُ ٱلَّذِينَ يُنفِقُونَ أَمْوَٰلَهُمْ فِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ كَمَثَلِ حَبَّةٍ أَنۢبَتَتْ سَبْعَ سَنَابِلَ فِى كُلِّ سُنۢبُلَةٍ مِّا۟ئَةُ حَبَّةٍ وَٱللَّهُ يُضَـٰعِفُ لِمَن يَشَآءُ وَٱللَّهُ وَٰسِعٌ عَلِيمٌ
[2:245] Who would lend GOD a loan of righteousness, to have it repaid to them multiplied manifold? GOD is the One who provides and withholds, and to Him you will be returned.
(٢٤٥) مَّن ذَا ٱلَّذِى يُقْرِضُ ٱللَّهَ قَرْضًا حَسَنًا فَيُضَـٰعِفَهُۥ لَهُۥٓ أَضْعَافًا كَثِيرَةً وَٱللَّهُ يَقْبِضُ وَيَبْصُۜطُ وَإِلَيْهِ تُرْجَعُونَ
[42:30] Anything bad that happens to you is a consequence of your own deeds, and He overlooks many (of your sins).
[42:31] You can never escape, and you have none beside GOD as a Lord and Master.
[42:32] Among His proofs are the ships that sail the sea with sails like flags.
[42:33] If He willed, He could have stilled the winds, leaving them motionless on top of the water. These are proofs for those who are steadfast, appreciative.
[42:34] He can annihilate them, as a consequence of their own works. Instead, He overlooks many (of their sins).
[42:35] Those who argue against our proofs will find out that they have no basis.
(٣٠) وَمَآ أَصَـٰبَكُم مِّن مُّصِيبَةٍ فَبِمَا كَسَبَتْ أَيْدِيكُمْ وَيَعْفُوا۟ عَن كَثِيرٍ
(٣١) وَمَآ أَنتُم بِمُعْجِزِينَ فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ وَمَا لَكُم مِّن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ مِن وَلِىٍّ وَلَا نَصِيرٍ
(٣٢) وَمِنْ ءَايَـٰتِهِ ٱلْجَوَارِ فِى ٱلْبَحْرِ كَٱلْأَعْلَـٰمِ
(٣٣) إِن يَشَأْ يُسْكِنِ ٱلرِّيحَ فَيَظْلَلْنَ رَوَاكِدَ عَلَىٰ ظَهْرِهِۦٓ إِنَّ فِى ذَٰلِكَ لَـَٔايَـٰتٍ لِّكُلِّ صَبَّارٍ شَكُورٍ
(٣٤) أَوْ يُوبِقْهُنَّ بِمَا كَسَبُوا۟ وَيَعْفُ عَن كَثِيرٍ
(٣٥) وَيَعْلَمَ ٱلَّذِينَ يُجَـٰدِلُونَ فِىٓ ءَايَـٰتِنَا مَا لَهُم مِّن مَّحِيصٍ
#71 AL-MUQADDIM ( ٱلْمُقَدِّمُ ) = The Expediter, The Promoter
The name AL-MUQADDIM ( ٱلْمُقَدِّمُ ) is never used in the Quran in refernce to God in any form. This root ( ق د م ) occurs 48 times in the Quran, and is never used in refernce to God or an actiono of God.
#86 AL-MUQSIT ( ٱلْمُقْسِطُ ) = The Equitable, The Just
Similar to #29, This attribute is not used in reference to God at all in the entire Quran. The root of this name ( ق س ط ) occurs 25 times in the Quran, and every time it is in reference to other than God. I believe this is for similar reasons as detailed in #29 regarding ‘Adl as God is more giving and generous than what is enjoined upon humans. Therefore it does not make sense to reduce God’s status by applying this attribute to him.
#90 AL-MANI’ ( ٱلْمَانِعُ ) = The Preventer, Forbidder
The Quran never uses this action in reference to God. The root ( م ن ع ) for this name occurs 17 times in the Quran, and not once is it used as an action occurring directly by God.
#91 AD-DHARR ( ٱلْضَّارُ ) = The Distresser (Hardship)
This attribute is not used in reference to God at all in the entire Quran. The root ( ض ر ر ) for this name occurs 74 times in the Quran and typically in the context of adversity, hardship, and harm. The closest we see this used in reference to God is in the following hypothetical that is given.
[39:38] If you ask them, “Who created the heavens and the earth?” they will say, “GOD.” Say, “Why then do you set up idols beside GOD? If GOD willed any adversity for me, can they relieve such an adversity? And if He willed a blessing for me, can they prevent such a blessing?” Say, “GOD is sufficient for me.” In Him the trusters shall trust.
وَلَئِن سَأَلْتَهُم مَّنْ خَلَقَ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضَ لَيَقُولُنَّ ٱللَّهُ قُلْ أَفَرَءَيْتُم مَّا تَدْعُونَ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ إِنْ أَرَادَنِىَ ٱللَّهُ بِضُرٍّ هَلْ هُنَّ كَـٰشِفَـٰتُ ضُرِّهِۦٓ أَوْ أَرَادَنِى بِرَحْمَةٍ هَلْ هُنَّ مُمْسِكَـٰتُ رَحْمَتِهِۦ قُلْ حَسْبِىَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ يَتَوَكَّلُ ٱلْمُتَوَكِّلُونَ
16 | in | إِنْ | If |
17 | arādaniya | أَرَادَنِىَ | [He] intended for me |
18 | l-lahu | ٱللَّهُ | God |
19 | biḍurrin | بِضُرٍّ | any harm, |
20 | hal | هَلْ | are |
21 | hunna | هُنَّ | they |
22 | kāshifātu | كَـٰشِفَـٰتُ | removers (of) |
23 | ḍurrihi | ضُرِّهِۦٓ | His harm; |
#92 AN-NAFI’ ( ٱلْنَّافِعُ ) = The Benefactor
This attribute is not used in reference to God at all in the entire Quran. The root ( ن ف ع ) for this name occurs 50 times in the Quran, but none of these occurrences states God as the Benefactor.
#93 Al-Noor ( ٱلْنُّورُ ) = The Light
The term Al-Noor ( ٱلْنُّورُ ) is not used as a name of God in the Quran. The closest reference to God’s light can be found in the following verse, but this is different than calling God “The Light.”
[24:35] GOD is the light of the heavens and the earth. The allegory of His light is that of a concave mirror behind a lamp that is placed inside a glass container. The glass container is like a bright, pearl-like star. The fuel thereof is supplied from a blessed oil-producing tree, that is neither eastern, nor western. Its oil is almost self-radiating; needs no fire to ignite it. Light upon light. GOD guides to His light whomever He wills. GOD thus cites the parables for the people. GOD is fully aware of all things.
ٱللَّهُ نُورُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضِ مَثَلُ نُورِهِۦ كَمِشْكَوٰةٍ فِيهَا مِصْبَاحٌ ٱلْمِصْبَاحُ فِى زُجَاجَةٍ ٱلزُّجَاجَةُ كَأَنَّهَا كَوْكَبٌ دُرِّىٌّ يُوقَدُ مِن شَجَرَةٍ مُّبَـٰرَكَةٍ زَيْتُونَةٍ لَّا شَرْقِيَّةٍ وَلَا غَرْبِيَّةٍ يَكَادُ زَيْتُهَا يُضِىٓءُ وَلَوْ لَمْ تَمْسَسْهُ نَارٌ نُّورٌ عَلَىٰ نُورٍ يَهْدِى ٱللَّهُ لِنُورِهِۦ مَن يَشَآءُ وَيَضْرِبُ ٱللَّهُ ٱلْأَمْثَـٰلَ لِلنَّاسِ وَٱللَّهُ بِكُلِّ شَىْءٍ عَلِيمٌ
#99 AS-SABOOR = ( ٱلْصَّبُورُ ) = The Steadfast, Patient
The name AS-SABOOR = ( ٱلْصَّبُورُ ) is never used towards God in the Quran, nor is the verb ever applied in the Quran. The root of this name ( ص ب ر ) occurs 103 times in the Quran, and none of these occurrences are in reference to God but in reference to humans and God’s creations.
It doesn’t seem applicable to call God patient because patience requires to be limited to time, and this does not apply to God as God is the creator of time and space.