95. Al - Badi

The Wonderful Originator, The Unprecedented and Incomparable Inventor, The Absolute Cause

The marvelous One who originates, commences, invents and creates all that exists, without any model or material.

The One whose incomparable will-power first brings into existence all of the unique and amazing creation without any similarity to anything else that has ever existed.

The One who creates in wonderful, awesome, amazingly original ways that have no precedent whatsoever.

From the root b-d-'a which has the following classical Arabic connotations:
to introduce, originate, start, innovate
to do for the first time, and not after the similitude of anything pre-existing
to cause to exist, to bring into existence
to devise, to uniquely contrive
to be amazing, outstanding, marvelous, superlative, incomparable

This name is used in the Qur'ān. For example, see 2:117

In honoring the One Creator, it has been said that mankind does not truly create, but rather merely discovers that which Allāh has already created.

The ancient Semitic roots of b-d-' point toward everything which is blossoming into existence and becoming apparent or exposed, with a sense of separation and individuality.

The expression al-Badī' refers to the Creator as well as that which is created.

In some Classical Arabic literature, the participles Mubdi' and Badī' are used interchangeably. However, in many Qur'ān commentaries, these terms are used to describe slightly different attributes, with the name Mubdi' emphasizing the initiation of creation, while Badī' emphasizes the awesome innovation of such creation.

Related names:

Mubdi' is the One who initiates, starts or begins the production or creation of all things.

Badī' is the One who creates in awesome, wonderful, amazingly original ways that have no precedent whatsoever.

Mu'īd is the One who repeats, restores and revives that which had been previously invented.

Bāri' is the way the One works with substances, often creating from existing matter, making and evolving that which is free and clear of imperfections, free and clear of any other thing.

Khāliq is the One who continues to plan, measure out and create and who has the power to change things from one state to another, in and out of existence.

Musawwir is the One who arranges forms and colors, and who is the shaper of beauty.

(Also written as al-badi, al-badee, al-badi

Allah calls Himself Al-Badee’— The incomparable Originator— on two occasions in the Quran. He is the One who initiates and creates in amazing and original ways that have no precedent, without any model or example. Al-Badee’ is the incomparable, the unique, and only One who originates, commences, invents, and creates in a perfect way!

The incomparable originator, the wonderful inventor and innovator

Badee’ comes from the root baa-daal-‘ayn which points to three main meanings. The first main meaning is to originate, innovate, or start. The second main meaning is to start something, to uniquely contrive without any similarity to anything pre-existing. And the third main meaning is to be incomparable, superlative and amazing.

This root appears four times in the Quran in three derived forms. Examples of these forms are ibtada’oohaa (“they innovated”) and bid’an (“a new (one)”).

Linguistically, bid’ah means an innovation or something new, something not done or said by anyone before.

Al-Badee’ refers to the one and only Originator who time and time again does something new, unlike anything else, originating its existence without the use of any tool and without being limited to time or space.

Al-Badee’ Himself says: [He is] Originator of the heavens and the earth. How could He have a son when He does not have a companion and He created all things? And He is, of all things, Knowing [Quran, 6:101]..Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, “Be,” and it is. [Quran, 2:117]

Bida’h: the concept of innovation in religion

According to Islamic teaching bid’ah is any invented or innovated way in religion that is aimed at worshipping or drawing closer to Allah ‘azza wa jall. This means that this act, saying, or distancing from something, has no proof—or daleel— in the Quran and Sunnah and was not known at the time of the Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and the companions. (These unaccepted religious inventions and innovations don’t include worldly inventions, like technology.)

The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallamwould start a khutbah (sermon) saying: …The best of speech is the Book of Allah and the best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad. The worst of things are those which are newly-invented, and every innovation is a going astray . . . [Muslim] This shows us it is forbidden to innovate something in Islam or to follow an innovation someone else started.

He salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam kept repeating: Every newly-invented thing is a bid’ah (innovation), every bid’ah is a going astray, and every going astray will be in the Fire. [An-Nasaa’i] He also explained that when you invent something in Islam this deed will be rejected from you: Whoever innovates something in this matter of ours that is not a part of it will have it rejected. [Al-Bukhaaree]

This shows how important it is to gain correct Islamic knowledge, as any innovation will not be accepted from the believers and can lead to the Hellfire. Examples of bid’ah are denying any of the five pillars of Islam or of the six pillars of emaan (faith), celebrating non-Islamic events and declaring that which is haraam(forbidden) halaal (accepted) and that which is halaal, haraam.

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Stay away from innovation in your religion.
Study the Quran and the sunnah from trustworthy sources so you equip yourself with knowledge on what is commanded, recommended, forbidden and discouraged in Islam. Gain knowledge about the ways of the prophet and his companions as these are key to implementing Quranic knowledge in your life. The prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: If anyone introduces an innovation in the religion, he will be responsible for it. If anyone introduces an innovation or gives shelter to a man who introduces an innovation (in the religion) he is cursed by Allah, by His angels and by all the people. [Abu Dawood] Ask Al-Badee’ to protect you from innovation.

2. Follow the prophet.
The prophet said: Leave me as I leave you, for the people who were before you were ruined because of their questions and their differences over their prophets. So, if I forbid you to do something, then keep away from it. And if I order you to do something, then do of it as much as you can. [Al-Bukharee]
And: . . . we were with ‘Umar and he said: We have been forbidden to undertake a difficult task beyond our capability (i.e. to exceed the religious limits, e.g., to clean the inside of the eyes while doing ablution).[Al-Bukhaaree] Never change or twist the meaning of the Quran or Sunnah to suit your desires. Be honest and take responsibility for your choices. Be careful with cultural activities; if they don’t contradict the Quran and sunnah there is no harm, but if they contradict Islam, avoid them.

3. Revive a sunnah.
The prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: He who starts a good sunnah will be rewarded for it, in addition to receiving rewards equal to the rewards of those who follow him into it. Whereas he who starts a bad sunnah will be burdened with it, in addition to receiving burdens equal to the burdens of those who follow him into it. [Muslim] The only good sunnah is a revived sunnah and not a newly-invented one!

5. Present Islam in a correct way.
When presenting Islam to someone, present the Quran and Sunnah and not your opinion.

6. Ask Al-Badee’.
. . . Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, ‘Be,’ and it is. [Quran, 2:117] Know there is no problem too big, no situation too challenging, and no difficulty too hard as long as you call upon Al-Badee’ to ask for His support and for your every need.

O Allah, Al-Badee’,we know that You are the incomparable Originator. Make us of those who follow Your rope, gain correct knowledge of Your Book and the sunnah and protect us from bid’ah. Guide us in reviving the ways of Your prophet correctly, make us convey the message of Islam to others as You revealed it and adorn us with complete faith and trust in Your power to create and originate, Ameen!

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

94. Al - Haadi

Allah calls Himself Al-Haadi— The Guide— on two occasions in the Quran.He is the one who gives perfect guidance. Al-Haadi is the one by whom His believers are guided and by whose general guidance all creatures are guided to what is beneficial for them!

The One who guides, The Guide of the right path

Al-Haadi comes from the root haa-daal-yaa which points to two main meanings. 
The first main meaning is to guide aright or to lead the right way. 
The second main meaning is to show with kindness the proper way and to guide in the right path until reaching the goal.

This root appears 316 times in theQuran in twelve derived forms. Examples of these forms are al-hudaa(the guidance), yahdee (guide),hadiyyatin (gift), al-hadyi (sacrificial animal), and al-muhtadeen (the guided ones).

Linguistically, hadaa is the verb which means to guide, and hidaayah doesn’t just mean guidance; it also refers to guiding in a gentle and kind way. Referring to Allah ‘azza wa jall, He is the only true guide by whom the creatures are guided. Al-Haadi created signs in the universe to guide us, such as the stars and the moon, as well as the spiritual guidance of hearts to the truth and the physical guidance of the senses we use to detect harm.

Al-Haadi Himself says: And indeed is Allah the Guide of those who have believed to a straight path [Quran, 22:54] … And thus have We made for every prophet an enemy from among the criminals. But sufficient is your Lord as a guide and a helper. [Quran, 25:31]

Four types of guidance
Scholars divide the guidance of Allah‘azza wa jall into four different types. 
The first is hidaayat-al-a’mmah or general guidance, which is in place for the whole creation including plants, minerals, animals, etc; all are guided by Al-Haadi in the best manner for them. An example are the bees and how they work, the migrating of birds, the suckling of a newborn, the working of the senses. He said, Our Lord is He who gave each thing its form and then guided [it]. [Quran, 20:50]

The second type is described ashidaayat-al-Jinn-wal-Ins; it is guidance for the jinn and mankind defining the paths of good and evil, through the prophets and messengers sent by Allah ‘azza wa jall. And indeed, [O Muhammad], you guide to a straight path. [Quran, 42:52]

The third type of hidaayah is by tawfeeq(ability) and inspiration (or ilham). An example is when you are guided through a hardship and you display strong trust and belief in Al-Haadi: No disaster strikes except by permission of Allah. And whoever believes in Allah– He will guide his heart . . . [Quran,64:11] Then there are those incidents when you end up at the right place, hearing something you just needed to hear or meeting someone just at the right moment, all as forms of guidance of Allah.

And the forth type is guidance to success in the Hereafter for the righteous believers: And We will have removed whatever is within their breasts of resentment, [while] flowing beneath them are rivers. And they will say, Praise to Allah, who has guided us to this. [Quran 7:43]

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Keep asking for guidance.
If you seek the truth sincerely, Al-Haadi will guide you to it. As a believer, you say, a minimum of seventeen times a day when you pray: ihdinas siraatal mustaqeem– guide us on the straight path. Why, while you are already guided to Islam, should you keep asking for guidance? Because there are different levels of guidance for you to attain to be truly guided and because you are in need of continuous hidaayah; realize no one is safe from misguidance.

2. Feel it when you say ihdinas siraatal mustaqeem.
These are levels of true guidance: guidance of knowledge to know the truth, the capacity to be guided, to desire to be guided, to act upon it, and to remain steadfast in it. For all obstructions that impede guidance to be removed and to be granted sight of your ultimate goal along the path. For you to be aware of your own desperate need for guidance from Allah ‘azza wa jall over any other necessities and to make you see the misguided paths [ summarized from Ibn al Qayyim al Jawziyyah] So next time you say ‘Guide us on the straight path’, say it with feelings, sincerely asking to attain all levels of guidance from Allah.

3. Seek guidance from Al-Haadi in each matter.
Whenever you feel lost, stuck or when you have to make a decision, turn to Allah ‘azza wa jall before turning to others. Asking for guidance, you can use this beautiful name, e.g. by starting your invocation with Yaa Haadi. Whatever guidance someone or something might give you, know that it truly comes from Al-Haadi. A means to seek hidaayah is to pray the sunnah istakhaarah prayer.

4. Be thankful and do good to increase your guidance.
In Paradise you will say: . . . and we would never have been guided if Allah had not guided us. [Quran, 7:43] Reflect how hidaayah (guidance) is the best hadiyyah (gift) you can ever get, so thank Allah ‘azza wa jall for it each day.Indeed, We guided him to the way, be he grateful or be he ungrateful. [Quran, 76:3]
Another benefit of thanking Him for guidance is that He will give you more: . . . If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]. [Quran, 14:7] Also, your good deeds are directly linked to your guidance, so the more good deeds you do, the more Al-Haadi will increase your guidance: And Allah increases those who were guided, in guidance, and the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for recourse. [Quran, 19:76]

5. Invite others to the right path.
Invite others to the straight path, first and foremost by showing exemplary behaviour yourself. However, know that true guidance is from Al-Haadi. This should increase you in your confidence in calling others to Islam, as you know that the results are not dependant on your da’wah or speech but are in the hands of Al-Haadi; so don’t get disheartened or arrogant: Indeed, [O Muhammad], you do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills . . . [Quran, 28:56]

6. Ask Al-Haadi.
A beautiful supplication the Prophetsalallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used to beg Al-Haadi with was:
يَامُقَلِّبَالْقُلُوبِثَبِّتْقَلْبِىعَلَىدِينِكَ – 
Yaa muqalib al quloob, thabbit qalbee ‘alaa deenik, 
which means: 
O Turner of the hearts, turn my heart towards your deen. [At-Tirmidhee]

O Allah, Al-Haadi, we know that You are the ultimate Guide. Guide us on the straight path and make us of those who keep asking sincerely for your guidance in every matter. Inspire us to be aware and thankful for Your Guidance and aware of those who desire it. Aid us in inviting others to Islam and bless us with the ultimate guidance we need to enter Your Paradise, Ameen!

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

93. An - Nur

Allah calls Himself An-Nur—The Light, The Illuminating— on one occasion in the Qur'an. He is the one who is the light and from whom comes all light. An-Nur is the light of the heavens and earth, and His light clarifies and reveals, both physically and spiritually!

The Light, The One who reveals and illuminates

An-Nur comes from the root noon-waw-raa which points to four main meanings. 
The first main meaning is to give light and illuminate 
The second to make visible, reveal and clarify. 
The third main meaning is to be flaming, blazing, and apparent to the senses, and 
The fourth main meaning to enlighten or give advice.

This root appears 194 times in theQuran in three derived forms. Examples of these forms are an-naara(the Fire), nuruhum (their light) and muneerah (illuminating).

Linguistically, nur is used to indicate anything that gives off light, in the form of rays for example, and is that which makes things visible. Referring to Allah‘azza wa jall, He is the one by whom everything is made visible, whose attribute is light, and He is the One who illuminates (munawwir) and the One who guides (Haadi) the heavens and the earth!

An-Nur Himself says: Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. [Quran, 24:35]

The essence of Light

In the Quran and Sunnah we can find that Allah ‘azza wa jall has a nur (light) related to Him as an attribute of His essence. This is the same as His other attributes, for example sight, knowledge, might, etc. An-Nur says: And the earth will shine with the Light of its Rabb. [Quran, 39:69] This refers to the magnificent moment Allah ‘azza wa jall will come on the Day of Resurrection to judge mankind.

The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam stated about Allah’s attribute of nur:You are the Light of the heavens and the earth.[Al-Bukhaaree] He salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam also said the very weighty words: Light is His hijaab (veil), if He uncovers it then the subuhaat (brightness and splendour) of His Face would burn His creation so far as His Sight reaches. [Muslim]

A beautiful comparison

The scholars mentioned the light that is a part of Allah ‘azza wa jall and His attribute and the light given to the creation, both perceived— like from the sun and the moon— and spiritual. In surah An-Nur, ayah 35, Allah ‘azza wa jall describes His Light: The example of His light is like a niche within which is a lamp, the lamp is within glass, the glass as if it were a pearly [white] star lit from [the oil of] a blessed olive tree, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil would almost glow even if untouched by fire. Light upon light. Allah guides to His light whom He wills. And Allah presents examples for the people, and Allah is Knowing of all things. [Quran, 24:35]

Ibn al Qayyim rahimahullah explained it as a spiritual light bestowed by Allah‘azza wa jall upon the heart of His believing slave [Ijtimaa’ al-Ju-yoush al-Islaamiyyah] The niche is compared with the chest of the believer; inside the niche is a glass, of the most crisp and clear kind, and this glass resembles the heart of a believer. It sees the truth by virtue of its clarity and, similar to the olive oil, is the substance of the believing heart;it is from the “tree” of Revelation (that which Allah ‘azza wa jall revealed in His books). [Ibn al Qayyim’s al-Waabil as-Sayyib] The stronger a believer adheres to the revelation, the stronger the roots in his heart are!

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Know what to follow for success.
An-Nur says: There has come to you from Allah a light and a clear Book. [Quran, 5:15] This light is the Prophet Muhammad salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. The first step is to really treat the Quran and Sunah as your guide and deeply realize that only they are your way to receive the spiritual light of An-Nur. Through them you can see the reality of things and you will learn to clearly distinguish between good and bad.

2. Strive for His light.
Strive for His light by making understanding the Quran a priority in your daily life. Each day at least read one ayah and its meaning and practise it. Learn to understand the original language of the Quran. The light which An-Nur puts in your heart when you submit is faith in Him, knowledge, and love and remembrance of Him. Make the Quran and sunnah priority in your daily life so An-Nur will guide you and bless you with spiritual clarity.

3. Increase your good deeds.
Do many good deeds for the sake of An-Nur so that He will put light on your face in the Hereafter: [Some] faces, that Day, will be radiant, looking at their Lord. [Quran 75:22-23] A beautiful way to increase your worship is to think about your intention consciously throughout the day and re-invent your intention by changing random deeds like cleaning, cooking, working, etc. with the intention of pleasing Allah‘azza wa jall.

4. Think of the light on the Day of Judgement
The more your heart was responding to the light of the revelation (Quran and sunnah) in this life, the stronger your light will be on that dreadful day! So increase in doing good by seeing these deeds as a reason for light in the darkness of the Hereafter in Shaa Allah!

5. Be thankful.
Each day realize that An-Nur has guided you from the darkness of disbelief to the light of Islam and thank Him from the bottom of your heart.

5. Ask An-Nur
Use this supplication from the Quran related to light:
يقولونربناأتمملنانورناواغفرلناإنكعلىكلشيءقدير

They will say: Our Lord, perfect for us our light and forgive us. Indeed, You are over all things competent [Quran, 66:8]

And this beautiful invocation for when you go to the mosque:

“اللَّهُمَّاجْعَلْفِيقَلْبِينُوراً،وَفِيلِسَانِينُوراً،وَفِيسَمْعِينُوراً،وَفِيبَصَرِينُوراً،وَمِنْتَحْتِِينُوراً،وَعَنْيَمِينِينُوراً،وَعَنْشِمَالِينُوراً،وَمِنأَمَامِينُوراً،وَمِنْخَلْفِِينُوراً،وَاجْعَلْفِينَفْسِينُوراً،وَأَعْظِمْلِينُوراً،وَعَظِّمْلِينُوراً،وِاجْعَلْلِينُوراً،وَاجْعَلْنِينُوراً،اللَّهُمَّأَعْطِنِينُوراً،وَاجْعَلْفِيعَصَبِينُوراً،وَفِيلَحْمِينُوراً،وَفِيدَمِينُوراً،وَفِيشَعْرِينُوراً،وَفِيبَشَرِينُوراً

O Allah, place light in my heart, and on my tongue light, and in my ears light and in my sight light, and above me light, and below me light, and to my right light, and to my left light, and before me light and behind me light. Place in my soul light. Magnify for me light, and amplify for me light. Make for me light and make me a light. O Allah, grant me light, and place light in my nerves, and in my body light and in my blood light and in my hair light and in my skin light [Al-Bukhaaree]

O Allah, An-Nur, we know that You are Light and all kinds of light come from you. Guide us in following Your revelation, so it can be a source of light for us in this life and the next. Aid us in doing many good deeds so our faces will be shining with light in the Hereafter, light will emerge for us on the siraat so we can witness Your Light in Paradise, Ameen!

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

92. An - Nafi

The Creator of Good, The Benefiter, The Propitious, The Auspicious

The One who helps and who grants all advantages. The One who creates all that produces benefit and usefulness.

The One who grants all favorable circumstances. The One who confers all benefits.

The One who is continually blessing all of creation with goodness and all that is useful. The One through whom all needs are fulfilled.

From the root n-f-' which has the following classical Arabic connotations:
to profit, to be of use
to be beneficial, useful
to have the use of something

The name Nāfi' is not specifically used as a Beautiful Name in the Qur'ān.

Nāfi' (creator of good) is the opposite of Dārr (distresser).

The names Dārr and Nāfi' are often used together to acknowledge the way that balance and harmony are established and maintained. These opposing attributes are often inseparable, since that which is the sweetest nectar to one person may be bitter poison to another.

Such opposites help to make one aware that every action accomplishes some purpose and is, in the grand scheme of things, subservient to the all-knowing hand of Allāh, through whom balance and harmony are created and maintained... even if we don't understand.

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

91. Ad - Darr

The Correcter, The Balancer, The Distresser, The Afflicter, The Punisher

The One whose wisdom may choose to use forceful corrections.

The One who creates adversity or distress in order to discourage or correct wrongful behavior.

The One whose wisdom may use situations that have an outward appearance of being harmful.

From the root d-r-r which has the following classical Arabic connotations:
to have an opinion that is opposing
to apply forceful correction
to do an act that is disliked
to make inconvenient, annoy, distress
to cause adversity, afflict
to harm, injure, hurt

The name Dārr is not specifically used as a Beautiful Name in the Qur'ān.

Nāfi' (creator of good) is the opposite of Dārr (distresser)

The names Dārr and Nāfi' are often used together to acknowledge the way that balance and harmony are established and maintained. These opposing attributes are often inseparable, since that which is the sweetest nectar to one person may be bitter poison to another.

Such opposites help to make one aware that every action accomplishes some purpose and is, in the grand scheme of things, subservient to the all-knowing hand of Allāh, through whom balance and harmony are created and maintained... even if we don't understand.

Abū Hāmid al-Ghazālī wrote:

Do not suppose that poison kills or harms by itself.... or that kings or men or satan, or any creature, are capable of good or evil, benefit or harm, by themselves. For all of these are subservient causes from which nothing proceeds except that for which they were utilized.

There is a grand intelligence who has a plan that is beyond our understanding, and these pairs of opposites serve to remind us to constantly focus our attention on the glory of the One, regardless of whether the situation is smooth and easy or rough and difficult.

There is only one virtue and one sin for a soul on the path:
virtue when he is conscious of God and sin when he is not.
Abu Hashim Madani

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

90. Al - Maani

The Preventer, The Protector, The Defender

The One who averts harm, physical or spiritual. The One who guards from harmful situations.

The One who prevents undesirable actions. The One who impedes or hinders wrongful action.

The One who stops one thing from harming another.
From the root m-n-' which has the following classical Arabic connotations:
to prevent, hinder, hold back, restrain, deny
to impede, resist
to forbid, refuse, prohibit
to guard, defend, protect

The name Māni' is not specifically used as a Beautiful Name in the Qur'ān.

Names related to Watching and Protecting:

Hafīz refers to the One who remembers and preserves to keep things from being lost or forgotten.

Wakīl refers to the One who is the trusted administrator of all matters.

Raqīb refers to the One who watches and observes.

Māni' refers to the One who protects and defends against harmful situations.

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

89. Al - Mughni

The Enricher, The Bestower of Wealth, The Fulfiller of Needs

The One who gives wealth abundantly. The One who provides all that is needed. The One whose wealth fulfills all needs.

The One who enriches all of creation. The One who creates all appearances of independence or self-sufficiency.

The One who bestows satisfaction and contentment. The One who bestows spiritual wealth.

From the root gh-n-y which has the following classical Arabic connotations:
to be free from wants or needs
to be self-sufficient
to be able to do without help from others
to be content, satisfied
to be rich, wealthy

This name is very similar to Ar-Razzaq, the provider but is direct in Allah being the enricher or All things. Allah provides everything and every time these provision are enriched, this by Allah, Al-Mugni.

Allah is Al-Mugni, the one who gives wealth, who provides all that is needed, whose wealth fulfills all needs, who enriches all of creation, who creates all appearances of independence or self-sufficiency, who bestows satisfaction and contentment and who bestows spiritual wealth. Allah is the only one who provides any and everything we get on this earth, if you are rich in monetary means, Allah has provided this for you. If you are rich spiritually, Allah has uplifted this for you. In whatever you have gained, Allah has given it to you.

This is something that we as Muslim must not lose sight of, in Shaa Allah. When we have a slight increase in our monies, or get into professional school, or have any increase in our life as a whole, we sometimes begin to think like the man in Surah Al-Kahf. We start to think that our success and gains are from us alone, that we have done it ourselves. But this is not the case, Allah has placed you where you are at today and has given you everything you have. It is easy to say that Allah has provided us with food, water and shelter but when it comes to gaining in success, our tongues hesitate a bit.

I went through four gruelling years in college and now I am entering Medical School because of my hard work and dedication I have gotten there. But who is the one that provided you with the ability to get where you are at today? Who is the one that provided you with the opportunity to go to college?

I came to this country poor and now I am a successful businessman due to my hard work and perseverance. But who is the one that made this transition easy for you was it you yourself or the one that created you?

Allah is the one and only enricher and only if we can keep this in our mind can our hearts be softened with gratitude.

“Indeed, your Lord extends provision for whom He wills and restricts [it]. Indeed He is ever, concerning His servants, Acquainted and Seeing” 17:30

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

88. Al - Ghaniyy

Allah calls Himself Al-Ghaniyy—The Self-Sufficient, The Independent— on eighteen occasions in the Qur'an. 

He is the one without need of anything. Al-Ghaniyy is self-sufficient, free of any dependence, and rich— while all of His creatures stand in need of Him!

The Independent, The Wealthy, Self-Sufficient

Ghaniyy comes from the root ghayn-noon-yaa which points to four main meanings. 
The first main meaning is to be self-sufficient and independent  
The second to be free from needs or wants. 
The third main meaning is to be satisfied and content and the fourth to be wealthy and rich.

This root appears 73 times in the Qur'an in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are aghnaa (availed), yughnee (benefits, avail) and istaghnaa (considers himself self-sufficient).

Linguistically, ghina is used to refer to the concept of independence because of being self-sufficient. The opposite is faqr, which refers to poverty, being in need. Faqeer is used to describe a poor person. In reality no one is in absence of need of Allah ‘azza wa jall and everyone is dependent on no one other than Him. Therefore Al-Ghaniyy is the only One who truly transcends all needs, is completely satisfied, and the One upon whose wealth, riches, and blessings all others depend!

Al-Ghaniyy Himself says: But if you disbelieve – then to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And ever is Allah Free of need and Praiseworthy [Quran, 4:131] …And whoever turns away – then indeed, Allah is the Free of need, the Praiseworthy [Quran, 60:6]

True Praise Belongs to Al-Ghaniyy

In the Quran, Allah ‘azza wa jall combines His name Al-Ghaniyy ten times with His name Al-Hameed (The Praiseworthy). For example, the believers are instructed to spend of their wealth in charity, however Allah ‘azza wa jall is far Richer from needing their charity, but the purpose is that the distance between the rich and the poor becomes less. [Tafseer ibn Katheer]

Of whatever is given, it is the piety behind it that will reach Al-Ghaniyy, as He reveals: It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him. [Quran, 22:37]. Whenever a believer gives in charity with a sincere intention, he should know that Allah is the Most Rich and He will reward him for his charity and multiply it many times. And complete praise and thanks is to Him, as no one can do Him a favour, for everything is His own creation and invention!

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Don’t let wealth distract you.
No matter how wealthy you are, good-looking or of good career, remind yourself Who is the real owner of everything.O mankind! You are the poor ones in need of Allah, where as Allah is the Rich Beyond Need , the Praiseworthy. [Quran, 35:15] So use your money, power and position to please Him only.

2. Thank Al-Ghaniyy.
Whenever anything of wealth comes your way, for example a promotion through work, a financial gain, or anything of benefit to you, make sure the first thing you do is to thank Al-Ghaniyy and to ask Him to aid you to use it wisely and make it a source of barakah (blessings) for you. Musa said: If you were to be ungrateful, you and everyone on Earth, Allah is Rich Beyond Need, Praiseworthy. [Quran, 14:8]

3. Be content.
The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Richness is not having many possessions. Rather, true richness is the richness of the soul. [Al-Bukhaaree] Remind yourself that the highest degree of wealth is contentment with the decree of Allah ‘azza wa jall. Strive for ridaa, which means you are satisfied with whatever Al-Ghaniyy gives you or withholds from you as this is the ultimate key to the tranquility of your soul.

4. Don’t beg or ask from others when there is no need.
The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: It is better for anyone of you to take a rope and bring a bundle of wood over his back and sell it, and Allah will save his face because of that, rather than to ask the people who may or may not give. [Al-Bukhaaree] As a Muslim you should strive to not burden other Muslims or be lazy and inactive.
You should never ask from others just to increase your wealth. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam warned: Whoever begs from the people in order to accumulate wealth, it is as if he is asking for a live coal, so let him ask for a little or a lot. [Muslim] The Prophet mentioned three cases in which it is allowed to ask the help of others: in case of repaying debts, when a calamity has stricken and all your wealth is destroyed or when one is stricken with poverty and three trust-worthy persons can testify for this. [Muslim]

5. Ask Al-Ghaniyy.
Use the beautiful and comprehensive supplication of Musa ‘alayhi sallam while realizing your need of Al-Ghaniyy:
رَبِّإِنِّيلِمَاأَنزَلْتَإِلَيَّمِنْخَيْرٍفَقِيرٌ(28:24)
My Lord! Truly, I am in need of whatever good that You bestow on me! [Quran, 28:24]

6. Give of what you love.
When you give charity there are two very important instructions: only give from halaal wealth or belongings and don’t give what you would dislike for yourself. Ibn ‘Abbas radiayallahu ‘anhu mentioned as reported in tafseer Ibn Katheer: Allah commanded them to spend from the purest, finest and best types of their money and prohibited spending from evil and dishonest money, because Allah is pure and good and only accepts that which is pure and Verily, Allah is far Richer than you, He is in no need of this money, so do not give, for His sake, what you would dislike for yourselves.
Giving of what you love is something lost in our modern day, individualistic society. How many times do we give away old, even broken clothes in charity? Al-Ghaniyy knows you best. Reflect on this crucial statement: By no means shall you attain Al-Birr, unless you spend of that which you love [Quran, 4:92] So give away something you love yourself and you will feel the effect on your heart!

O Allah, Al-Ghaniyy, we know that You need none and all need you. Make us recognize our poverty in front of You and always make us thankful for the wealth You bestow on us and aid us to use it for Your sake. Adorn us with contentment with Your decree and make us of those who give away of what they love, Ameen!

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem

And Allah knows the Best.

87. Al - Jaami

Allah calls Himself Jaami’—Gatherer, Collector, One Who Unites— on two occasions in the Quran. 

He is the One who gathers, reconciles, assembles, and unites. 

Al-Jaami’ is the One who brought the whole universe together, who reconciles hearts, who connects opposites and that which is similar, and who will gather all to stand before Him!

The One Who Gathers and Collects, the Uniter
Jaami’ comes from the root jeem-meem-‘ayn, which points to three main meanings. 
The first meaning is to gather or to bring together, accumulate, or congregate. 
The second main meaning is to connect, combine, or unite. The third main meaning is to reconcile or resolve and 
The fourth is to arrange, assemble, or compose.

This root appears 129 times in the Quran in 11 derived forms. Examples of these forms are yajma’oona (they accumulate), ajma’eena or jamee’an (all together), al-jam’aani (the two forces, the two hosts) and jama’oo (gathered).

Linguistically, the concept of jam refers to both physical gathering and union, such as yawm ul-jumu’ah ( the day people gather) and ‘ijmaa (scholarly consensus) as spiritual reconciliation, such as bringing the hearts people together after enmity.

Al-Jaami’ is the One who makes substances in the bodies work together, who gathers all different creatures living side by side in the world and so will disassemble us and compose us again when He gathers us on the Day of Judgment!

Al-Jaami’ Himself says: Our Lord, surely You will gather the people for a Day about which there is no doubt. Indeed, Allah does not fail in His promise [Quran, 3:9] . . . Indeed, you would then be like them. Indeed Allah will gather the hypocrites and disbelievers in Hell all together. [Quran, 4:140]

The Day of Gathering
Friday, or the day of Al-Jumu’ah, is a blessing Allah ‘azza wa jall granted the believers. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Allah sent astray those who had come before us from Al-Jumu’ah (The Day of Gathering/Friday). So the Jews were guided to yawmus-Sabt (Saturday), and the Christians were guided to yawmul-Ahad (Sunday). So Allah presented to us, therefore guided us to Al-Jumu’ah. Furthermore, they will follow us on yawmul-Qiyaamah (The Day of Standing and Reckoning). We are last from amongst Ahlud-Dunyaa -the people of this life- and first on yawmul-Qiyaamah [Muslim]

The Day of Resurrection is also known as the Day of Gathering, because on that Day Allah will gather His slaves for their final Judgments; this is the great gathering. Allah ‘azza wa jall tells us about Yawm ul-Jam’i (the Day of Assembly): The Day He will assemble you for the Day of Assembly – that is the Day of Deprivation. And whoever believes in Allah and does righteousness – He will remove from him his misdeeds and admit him to gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever. That is the great attainment. [Quran, 64:9]

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Remember the Day of Gathering.
Allah– there is no deity except Him. He will surely assemble you for [account on] the Day of Resurrection, about which there is no doubt. And who is more truthful than Allah in statement. [Quran, 4:87] Reflect on the greatness of Allah ‘azza wa jall who is able to bring all of mankind, from the old ages to the last of times, together in one place. Every day think about your standing in front of Him, Al-Jaami’.

2.Strive for the shade of Al-Jaami’.
Couple your knowledge and remembrance of the Day of Judgment with action.The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: There are seven whom Allah will shade in His Shade on the Day when there is no shade except His Shade: a just ruler; a youth who grew up in the worship of Allah, the Mighty and Majestic; a man whose heart is attached to the mosques; two men who love each other for Allah’s sake, meeting for that and parting upon that; a man who is called by a woman of beauty and position [for illegal intercourse], but he says: ‘I fear Allah’, a man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity; and a man who remembered Allah in private and so his eyes shed tears [Al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]
Study each type carefully and strive to practice (elements of ) each in your daily life: connect with and look after your local mosque, come together with people for the sake of Allah, give secret sadaqah and cry out of love and fear for Him when you are alone.

3. Observe the etiquettes of Friday.
Which role does yawm ul-Jumuah play in your life? Study the virtues of Friday and practice the sunnah so you can be immensely rewarded. For example, read Surah Al-Kahf, perform ghusl, pray the Jumu’ah prayer, and listen to the sermon (khutbah) and go early for it. Also supplicate to Allah ‘azza wa jall as much as possible, especially the last hour after ‘Asr and send peace and blessings on the Prophet abundantly.

4. Bring people together.
Apart from bringing together your knowledge with action and your personal acts of worship like salaah, Al-Jaami’ rewards you for your acts of helping creation and bringing people together.
For example, pray in congregation, but also try to reconcile two parties in conflict and bring people together by sharing your dinner. Remember, unity doesn’t mean there are not differences in opinions, strategies, and backgrounds; it means you should be united through a bigger picture, seeing the Quran and the Sunnah as the rope you are holding on to together. As Al-Jaami’ says: And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and lose courage and your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient [Quran, 8:46]

O Allah, Al-Jaami’, we know that You bring together and gather all things. Make us reflect on the ways You brought to us and the rest of creation together and aid us to observe the sunan of yawm ul-Jumuah. Make us of those who join and stay with the jama’a (congregation), bring others together for good, and open our hearts to remember the Day of Gathering often and strive for Your shade, ameen!

The rewards of the sunnah of Friday are mentioned in different narrations. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: The best of days is Friday; so increase in conveying peace and blessings on me that day, for your blessings will be submitted to me [Abu Dawood, An-Nasaa’i, Ibn Majah]

Seek the hour in which there is hope that prayers will be answered, on Friday after Asr prayer, until the sun goes down [At-Tirmidhee]

Whoever recites Surah al-Kahf on Jumu’ah will have illumination from the light from one Jumu’ah to the next [Al-Haakim]

Whoever makes his wife do ghusl and does ghusl himself on Friday and goes out early, walking not riding, and comes close to the imaam and listens [to the sermon] without interrupting, will have for each step he takes a reward equal to that of fasting and praying at night for one year[Ahmad, at-Tirmidhee]

In another narration the use of perfume is mentioned in addition to above sunnah and the reward is mentioned as:his sins in-between the present and the last Friday would be forgiven [Al-Bukaaree]

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

86. Al - muqsit

The most just, the equitable

The One who is most equitable and just. 

The One whose ways are balanced and just. The One who establishes justice. 

The One who creates harmony and balance. The One who does away with injustice.

The One who leads mankind to justice and harmony.

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.


And Allah knows Best.

85. Dhul jalaali wal ikram

Allah calls Himself Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam—The Possessor of Glory and Honour, The Lord of Majesty and Generosity — on two occasions in the Quran. 

He is the one who owns each attribute and manner of glory, majesty, superiority, generosity, and honour. Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam is the source of great splendour and abundance!

The Owner of Loftiness and Majesty, The Lord of Generosity and Nobility

Jalaal comes from the root jeem-laam-laam, which points out to three main meanings. 
The first main meaning is to be glorious, majestic and sublime 
The second main meaning is to be high, lofty and independant and The third to be supremely great.
This root appears twice in the Quran in one form; as the noun jalaal. An example is al-jalaali (of Majesty).

Ikraam, kareem and akram come from the root kaaf-raa-meem, which points out to four main meanings. 
The first meaning is to be generous, giving, and beneficent 
The second main meaning of this root is to be highly esteemed honoured and valued 
The third main meaning is to be precious, valuable and rare and 
The fourth to be bountiful and productive. 

This root appears 47 times in the Quran in eight derived forms. Examples of these forms are al-akram (“the Most Generous”), kareemun (“noble”), kiraaman (“dignified ones”) and al-ikraam (“and Honor ”).

Linguistically, dhu or thoo is a demonstrative pronoun and literally means with, in, on, or of in the Arabic language. In Dhul-Jalaal dhu refers to Allah ‘azza wa jall being complete Possessor, Owner and Lord of al-Jalaal, Majesty and Glory. 

Wal-Ikraam means wa (and) al-Ikraam, the Generosity and Bounty. Kareem is an adjective while ikraam is a verbal noun.

Allah is the Lord of these two beautiful Attributes. Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam is the One who is most precious and honoured, He is the Majestic and Glorious Lord, Owner and Source of all generosity, blessings and bounties!

Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam Himself says: Blessed is the name of your Lord, Owner of Majesty and Honor [Quran, 55:78]

The Honourable Face of Allah
In Surah Ar-Rahmaan Allah ‘azza wa jall tells us about the moment everything and everyone on earth will perish and only His honourable Face will remain, because He is the Ever-Living and will never die. Allah ‘azza wajall describes His Face here as being Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam. Ash-Sha`bi said, “When you have recited, Whatsoever is on it (the earth) will perish.) do not stop, continue reading,And there will remain the Face of your Lord, Owner of Majesty and Honor.”[Quran, 57:24-25] Ibn `Abbas commented on the meaning of Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam, by saying, “Owner of greatness and pride.” Both of these statements can be found in tafseer Ibn Katheer.

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Seek the Face of Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam.
Allah ‘azza wa jall describes His Noble Face as being Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam; only He is worthy of being revered and obeyed. Make it a mission to seek His Face in everything you do. And keep yourself patiently with those who call on their Lord morning and afternoon, seeking His Face [Quran, 18:28] That means for example that if you do something for someone else or give someone something, you don’t do it for their praise or recognition, but only to please Allah. As He said about those giving charity: We feed you seeking Allah’s Face only [Quran, 76:9] You can test yourself by seeing how you feel when someone doesn’t show gratefulness or doesn’t recognize what you did for them: do you feel angry and upset? Then you might have to remind yourself to do it for His Face only He records each deed, no matter if people thank you or not.

2. Remember Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam after each prayer.
Follow a sunnah and get rewarded immensely by using below dhikr after salaah. A’ishah radiyallahu ‘anhaa said, 
“When the Messenger of Allah would (say the) Salam (completing prayer), he would only sit as long as it takes him to say,

اللْهُمَّأَنْتَالسَّلَامُوَمِنْكَالسَّلَامُ،تَبَارَكْتَيَاذَاالْجَلَالِوَالْإِكْرَام

Allahumma antas-salaam wa minkas-salaam, tabaarakta yaa Dhal-Jalaali wal-Ikraam 
(O Allah! You are As-Salam, and peace comes from You. Blessed be You Yaa Dhal-Jalaali wal-Ikraam) [Muslim]

3. Be generous.
Let Allah ‘azza wa jall being the Lord of generosity be an inspiration for you to be kareem (generous) to others as the Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: The generous one is close to Allah, close to people, far from the fire… [At-Tirmidhee]

4. Recognize the Source.
When you receive gifts from people or someone benefits you by giving support or help, know that the Source of these bounties is Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam. So when a gift or benefit arrives to you, make sure the first thing you do is saying ‘alhamdulillah’ and honour the true Giver from whom all blessings come. Then, thank the person for example by supplicating for them by saying jazaakAllahu khayr (may Allah reward you with good) or baraakAllahu feek (may Allah bless you).

5. Ask Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikraam.
The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam encouraged you to call upon Allah ‘azza wa jall in an effective manner by using His most Beautiful Names. When you start your dua’ with this Name, mind that Dhu changes into Dha, for example Yaa Dhal-Jalaali wal-Ikraam. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Persist (in invoking Allah) with, “Yaa Dhal-Jalaali wal-Ikraam [Ahmad, An-Nasaa’i] So when you make a dua’, you can say: Yaa Dhal-Jalaali wal-Ikraam… [ your request]..

O Allah, Dhul-Jalaali wal-Ikram, we know that You are the Lord of all majesty and bounty. Aid us to seek Your Honourable Face only in our intentions, words and deeds. Help us to put obedience to You above everything else in our daily life and make us generous to others. Bless us with being able to see Your Countenance in the Hereafter, Ameen!

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.

84. Maalik ul Mulk

Allah calls Himself Maalik ul-Mulk— Master of the Kingdom, the Dominion’s Owner— on one occasion in the Quran. 

He is the only possessor and ruler of the creation. Maalik ul-Mulk has the supreme authority and ruling power to act, command, and decide in whatever manner He likes!

The King, the Ruler, the Owner of Dominion

Maalik, Malik and Maleek all come from the root maa-laa-kaa, which points to three main meanings. 
The first main meaning is to have possession and ownership 
The second is to have power and ability, and 
The third main meaning is to control and have authority.

This root appears 206 times in the Quran in ten derived forms. Examples of these forms are malakat (“possess”), mulku (“dominion”), and al-malaa’ikatu (“the angels)”.

Linguistically, maalik is an intensified form and refers to not only having kingship, but being master and lord. 

The word malik (king) is used for people however the name Maalik ul-Mulk is used for Allah ‘azza wa jall only. 

He is the King of all Kings, the owner of all owners and the ruler of all rulers, and His Kingdom consists of all that was, is, and will be created!

Maalik ul-Mulk Himself says,  
“O Allah , Owner of Sovereignty, You give sovereignty to whom You will and You take sovereignty away from whom You will. You honor whom You will and You humble whom You will. In Your hand is [all] good. Indeed, You are over all things competent [Quran, 3:26]

The Maalik of the Day of Judgement

In Surah Al-Fatiha Allah ‘azza wa jall calls Himself Maaliki yawmid-Deen: He is the Master of the Day of Recompense and on that day all commands will be Allah’s only. No king or ruler will be able to command anyone to anything nor will any person have the power to do anything for someone else. Maalik ul-Mulk says, demonstrating His complete ownership and mastery over us: Surely the virtuous shall be in Bliss, and the wicked shall be in the Blazing Fire. They shall enter it on the Day of Recompense and then shall never come out of it. What do you know what the Day of Recompense is? Again, what do you know what the Day of Recompense is? It is the Day when no one will have the power to do anything for another, and all command will be Allah’s. [Quran, 82:13-19]

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Remember the Day of Recompense.
Remind yourself of the day that Maalik ul-Mulk will confront you: The Day when they will (all) come out and nothing of them will be hidden from Allah. (On that Day they will be asked): “Whose is the kingdom today?” (The whole world will cry out): “It is Allah’s, the One, the Overpowering.” (It will then be said): “Today shall everyone be fully recompensed for his deeds . . .[Quran, 40:16-17] Every time you say Maaliki Yawmid-Deen in your prayer, imagine standing in front of Him and think of the deeds you have put forward for that day!

2. Reflect on the Kingdom.
Because nowadays most of us live in cities, surrounded by concrete and machines, we forget that in nature more than anything you see the sublime manifestation of the mulk of Allah ‘azza wa jall. When you are caught up in your daily life issues, blowing small problems out of proportion, or when your connection to Allah ‘azza wa jall feels weak, step out of the streets and into nature and let it humble you. Pick up a leaf and feel the texture. Reflecting on the creation is in itself ‘ibaadah.

3. Ask Maalik ul-Mulk.
Use this beautiful Quranic dua to supplicate to Maalik ul-Mulk: Those who remember Allah standing and sitting and lying on their sides and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth: Rabbanaa maa khalaqta haadha baaTilan subhaanaka fa qinaa ‘adhaaban-naar – Our Lord! Thou hast not created this in vain! Glory be to Thee; save us then from the chastisement of the fire [Quran, 3:191]

4. Motivate yourself.
Imagine the moment you will enter Paradise; the angels at the gates will welcome you with salaamun ‘alaykum– they greet you with peace, peace that you have longed for all your life. Then you will rush off to your house, the prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: By the One in Whose hand is the soul of Muhammad, any one of them (believers) will be more familiar with his dwelling in Paradise than he was with his house in this world [Al-Bukhaaree] Make Paradise a reality in your life and make it a clear goal at each start of your day. Allah ‘azza wa jall says: And when you look there [in Paradise], you will see pleasure and great dominion. [Quran, 76:20] Motivate yourself by imagining that first look into the great Kingdom of Paradise!

5. Be responsible in the dominion of Maalik ul-Mulk.
And [mention, O Muhammad], when your Lord said to the angels, ‘Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority.’ [Quran, 2:30] Allah ‘azza wa jall placed you in His dominion with a mission: to worship Him alone and be reformers on earth. How do you know what Maalik ul-Mulk expects from you in His kingdom? By studying the Quran and the sunnah, so you can first read about His commandments and limits with which He guides you. The second step is asking Him for understanding of your Deen, and the third to do your best to act upon your knowledge!

6. Be a good leader.
The Messenger of Allah salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said, Every one of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock. The leader of people is a guardian and is responsible for his subjects. A man is the guardian of his family and he is responsible for them. A woman is the guardian of her husband’s home and his children and she is responsible for them. The servant of a man is a guardian of the property of his master and he is responsible for it. Surely, every one of you is a shepherd and responsible for his flock. [Al-Bukharee, Muslim] Never misuse your authority over someone else, be just to your spouse and children and even to the animals, and remind yourself you will be asked about your leadership by Maalik ul-Mulk!

O Allah, Maalik ul-Mulk, we know that You are our only Master and Ruler. Make us remember the Day of Recompense in our words and deeds, aid us to truly reflect on Your Kingdom and be humbled by it. Guide us in being responsible on this earth, just to those under our authority and make us enter Paradise, Your Eternal dominion of pleasure, Ameen!

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

And Allah knows Best.