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Allah calls Himself Al-Ghaniyy—The Self-Sufficient, The Independent— on eighteen occasions in the Quran. 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 and 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 Quran 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!

Allah calls Himself An-Nur—The Light, The Illuminating— on one occasion in the Quran. 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 and 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 the Quran 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 darknesesses 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]

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 the Quran 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, etcetera; 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 as hidaayat-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]

Ask Al-Haadi.
A beautiful supplication the Prophet salallahu ‘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]

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 sallam would 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!

Today we reveal the first Name we will memorize, understand and implement in our lives: ALLAH.

Our motives for studying the Names of Allah

Every week we will choose one of the Beautiful Names of Allah [swt] to memorize and discuss its influence on our life.

Our goals of Memorizing & Understanding the 99 Names, one by one, each week:

To get closer to Allah [swt] through this Name;

To link every second of our life to the Most Beautiful Names of Allah [swt];

To know Allah and consequently love Him, fear Him obey His orders and submit to His decree;

To understand the Names of Allah [swt] with our heart;

By knowing Allah [swt] we will try to perfect all our deeds.

If we know Allah [swt] we will know the purpose of our life!

The Meaning of the Name ‘Allah’

The word Allah means “the Being Who comprises all the attributes of perfection”, the Being Who possesses the best and the noblest qualities imaginable in the highest degree. This is supported by the Quran:

“His are the best (or most beautiful) names.” (17:110; 20:8; and 7:180)

Allah is a proper name, not derived from anything and the Al is inseparable from it. The word al-ilah (the god) is a different word.

The word Allah is unique and it is the Name which refers to the Being Himself as His personal name.

Amazing Facts about the Name ‘Allah’ :

– The Name ‘Allah’ is the only Name of Allah, the rest are all Attributes!

– The first and the last Word of the Adhan is ‘Allah’..

– The first word of Salah is ‘Allah’..

– In a typical Salah [namaz], the word that comes most is ‘Allah’..

– The beginning of our life starts with ‘Allah’ (the adhan)..

– and the end of our life should be..’la ilaha illa Allah’..!

Free welcome surprise!

To find out more amazing facts and a beautiful story about the Arabic Word ‘Allah’ sign up to our newsletter and receive a free welcome gift to this series.

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So remember, the first Name we memorize, understand and live by is:

ALLAH!

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10 notities

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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, somethg not done or said by anyone before.

Welcome to the new series: How to live by the Names of Allah!

Today we reveal the first Name we will memorize, understand and implement in our lives: ALLAH.

Our motives for studying the Names of Allah

Every week we will choose one of the Beautiful Names of Allah [swt] to memorize and discuss its influence on our life.

Our goals of Memorizing & Understanding the 99 Names, one by one, each week:

To get closer to Allah [swt] through this Name;

To link every second of our life to the Most Beautiful Names of Allah [swt];

To know Allah and consequently love Him, fear Him obey His orders and submit to His decree;

To understand the Names of Allah [swt] with our heart;

By knowing Allah [swt] we will try to perfect all our deeds.

If we know Allah [swt] we will know the purpose of our life!

The Meaning of the Name ‘Allah’

The word Allah means “the Being Who comprises all the attributes of perfection”, the Being Who possesses the best and the noblest qualities imaginable in the highest degree. This is supported by the Quran:

“His are the best (or most beautiful) names.” (17:110; 20:8; and 7:180)

Allah is a proper name, not derived from anything and the Al is inseparable from it. The word al-ilah (the god) is a different word.

The word Allah is unique and it is the Name which refers to the Being Himself as His personal name.

Amazing Facts about the Name ‘Allah’ :

– The Name ‘Allah’ is the only Name of Allah, the rest are all Attributes!

– The first and the last Word of the Adhan is ‘Allah’..

– The first word of Salah is ‘Allah’..

– In a typical Salah [namaz], the word that comes most is ‘Allah’..

– The beginning of our life starts with ‘Allah’ (the adhan)..

– and the end of our life should be..’la ilaha illa Allah’..!

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So remember, the first Name we memorize, understand and live by is:

Allah calls Himself Al-Waarith—The Inheritor, the Heir— on one occasion in the Quran. Al-Waarith is the One who remains after the extinction of everyone and everything. He is the only One to whom all will return; He is the sole inheritor and owner of the whole creation!

The Inheritor, The Supreme Heir

Waarith comes from the root waaw-raa-thaa, which points to four main meanings. The first meaning is to inherit. The second main meaning is to be an heir or survivor, and the third is to be the owner or maintainer after one has passed.

This root appears 35 times in the Quran in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are narithu (“we will inherit”), meeraathu (“(the) heritage”), and al waaritheena (” the inheritors”).

Linguistically, waratha refers to the action of inheriting whereas waarith is the one doing the action, the inheritor and al-meeraath is the inheritage. Even though there is the concept of heirs and inheritance of worldly possessions in this world, Al-Waarith is the supreme Heir to whom the heritage of the heavens and earth belongs.

Al-Waarith Himself says: … And indeed, it is We who give life and cause death, and We are the Inheritor [Quran, 15:23] …And to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. And Allah , with what you do, is [fully] Acquainted. [Quran, 3:180]

Inheritance in the Quran

Al-Waarith says: It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any opinion in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, has indeed strayed into a plain error. [Quran, 33:36] As believers we find guidance regarding the Islamic rulings on inheritance in detail in the Quran. The law of inheritance has been given in the Quran in Surah An-Nisaa, in ayaat 11 and 12 and then in ayah 176 and it is part of faith to refer to these at all times.

How Can You Live By This Name?

1. Know that you will return to Al-Waarith.

Don’t stick to worldly possessions and don’t let them distract you from obedience to the one to whom both your possessions, yourself and your actions, will return. Don’t look for success in wealth and status, big cars and houses, if it compromises your relationship with Allah ‘azza wa jall— even though society pushes through this concept of “success.” Raise your children in putting Al-Waarith first in their actions and remind yourself often that very soon you will return to Him and you won’t be able to take any of your possessions in this world.

2. Say inna lillaahi wa inna ilayhi raji’oon.

Al-Waarith says: Who, when disaster strikes them, say, Indeed we belong to Allah , and indeed to Him we will return. [Quran, 2:156] Say inna lillaahi wa inna lillaahi raji’oon not only when someone passes away, but whenever a disaster or trial hits you, even if it is the loss of an object. Revive the sunnah and use this dhikr in times of loss!

3. Reflect on the ownership of Al-Waarith.

Take a look around you; everything you see– and don’t see— belongs to Allah. He gave you all the possessions you have— your car, your house, your children, your health, and even your time. Al-Waarith says: The kingdom of the heavens and the earth and everything in them belongs to Allah. He has power over all things. [Quran, 5:120] Realize Al-Waarith owns everything, nothing belongs to you, not even your own soul, and praise Him and ask Him for guidance to use your “possessions” to gain His pleasure. When you lose something or someone console yourself with the fact it was Allah’s to begin with.

4. Follow the rulings on inheritance of the Quran and sunnah.

The rulings and laws regarding inheritance in Islam are laid out in the Quran and demonstrated in the sunnah; refer to them in any situation, whether it brings you worldly benefit or not. Some of us follow their own rules of inheritance to gain more financial benefit, this is a grave sin and disobedience to Al-Waarith. So ask Him to guide you to stick to His rulings at all times!

5. Ask Al-Waarith.

The Messenger of Allaah salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used to say:

اللَّهُمَّمَتِّعْنِيبِسَمْعِي،وَبَصَرِي،وَاجْعَلْهُمَاالْوَارِثَمِنِّي،وَانْصُرْنِيعَلَىمَنْيَظْلِمُنِي،وَخُذْمِنْهُبِثَأْرِي

O Allaah, make my hearing and my sight strong, and make them my heirs (i.e., keep them strong until I die), and support me against the one who has wronged me, and avenge me. [Al-Bukhaari] Use this supplication in your daily life!

In the Quran you can find supplications in which waaritheen (inheritors) is used:

وَاجْعَلْنِيمِنوَرَ‌ثَةِجَنَّةِالنَّعِيم

And place me among the inheritors of the Garden of Pleasure. [Quran, 26:85]

وَزَكَرِ‌يَّاإِذْنَادَىٰرَ‌بَّهُرَ‌بِّلَاتَذَرْ‌نِيفَرْ‌دًاوَأَنتَخَيْرُ‌الْوَارِ‌ثِينَ

And [mention] Zechariah, when he called to his Lord, “My Lord, do not leave me alone [with no heir], while you are the best of inheritors. [Quran, 21:89]

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

Allah calls Himself Al-Hameed— the Most Praiseworthy , the Praised One — on ten occasions in the Quran. He is the One who deserves all praise and honour. Al-Hameed is the only One who is truly worthy of all praise and thanks!

The Praiseworthy, the object of praise

Hameed comes from the root haa-meem-daal, which points to three main meanings. The first main meaning is to praise with a sense of deep adoration and submission. The second main meaning is to honor or speak well of and the third is to praise one for what is done by that one’s own will.

This root appears 63 times in the Quran in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are al hamdu (all praise be to), al-haamidoona (those who praise), and mahmoodan (praiseworthy).

Linguistically, hamd is based on mahabbah (love) and ta’dheem (honour) and it implies admiration and gratitude towards the one who is praised (mahmood). Allah is Al-Hameed, He is the One who is always deserving of praise, regardless if He is being praised or not.

Al-Hameed Himself says: And they had been guided [in worldly life] to good speech, and they were guided to the path of the Praiseworthy [Quran, 22:24] .. and it guides to the path of the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy. [Quran, 34:6] … O mankind, you are those in need of Allah , while Allah is the Free of need, the Praiseworthy. [Quran, 35:15]

Alhamdulillah: an exclusive praise

Believers say alhamdulillah– All praise and thanks are for Allah each day in prayer in Surah Al-Fatiha, the first word of Adam ‘alayhi sallam was alhamdulillah and alhamdulillah will be the last call of the people of Paradise: وَآخِرُدَعْوَاهُمْأَنِالْحَمْدُلِلَّهِرَبِّالْعَالَمِينَ … And the last of their call will be, Praise to Allah, Lord of the worlds! [Quran,10:10]

Whereas hamd means praise, the ‘al’ in al-hamd makes the praise definite and implies exclusivity. Al-hamd means all types of praise and every manner of thanks at all times is due to Allah ‘azza wa jall. Abu Ja`far bin Jarir said: The meaning of alhamdulillah is: all thanks are due purely to Allah, alone, not any of the objects that are being worshipped instead of Him, nor any of His creation. [Tafseer ibn Katheer]

Alhamdulillah therefore can be best described by the most complete, perfect, and beautiful praise that is deserved by and for Allah ‘azza wa jall only!


Alhamdulillah in the Quran

The phrase alhamdulillah occurs 38 times in the Quran and it is the praise Allah ‘azza wa jall praised Himself with. Some suwar (plural of surah) of the Quran begin with hamd, which announces that all praise and thanks belong to Allah ‘azza wa jall, instructs that when we begin something we should begin with praise (like in a sermon or when making dua’) and shows us how to praise Allah– by saying alhamdulillah.

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Know the virtues alhamdulillah.
Increasing your Islamic knowledge and being aware of different virtues of acts of worship will motivate you to practise them! The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Verily, your Lord likes Al-Hamd [An-Nasaa’i] He salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam mentioned: the best dhikr (remembering Allah) is laa ilaaha illallah and the best supplication is alhamdulillah [At-Tirmidhee] And: The phrase alhamdulillah fills the scale. [Muslim] Realize the virtues of alhamdulillah!

2. Increase in saying alhamdulillah and feel it.
Increase in saying this beautiful praise in your daily life. And say it out of deep love, honour, and with humility and gratitude to your Lord. Remember Paradise when you say alhamdulillah, and ask Allah ‘azza wa jall to make you of those who say: Their call therein will be, ‘Exalted are You, O Allah,’ and their greeting therein will be, ‘Peace.’ And the last of their call will be, ‘Praise to Allah , Lord of the worlds.’ [Quran, 10:10]

3. Say it when you are blessed.
The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: No servant is blessed by Allah and says, alhamdulillah except that what he was given is better than that which he has himself acquired. [Ibn Maajah]

Allah calls Himself Al-Waarith—The Inheritor, the Heir— on one occasion in the Quran. Al-Waarith is the One who remains after the extinction of everyone and everything. He is the only One to whom all will return; He is the sole inheritor and owner of the whole creation!

The Inheritor, The Supreme Heir

Waarith comes from the root waaw-raa-thaa, which points to four main meanings. The first meaning is to inherit. The second main meaning is to be an heir or survivor, and the third is to be the owner or maintainer after one has passed.

This root appears 35 times in the Quran in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are narithu (“we will inherit”), meeraathu (“(the) heritage”), and al waaritheena (” the inheritors”).

Linguistically, waratha refers to the action of inheriting whereas waarith is the one doing the action, the inheritor and al-meeraath is the inheritage. Even though there is the concept of heirs and inheritance of worldly possessions in this world, Al-Waarith is the supreme Heir to whom the heritage of the heavens and earth belongs.

Al-Waarith Himself says: … And indeed, it is We who give life and cause death, and We are the Inheritor [Quran, 15:23] …And to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. And Allah , with what you do, is [fully] Acquainted. [Quran, 3:180]

Inheritance in the Quran

Al-Waarith says: It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any opinion in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, has indeed strayed into a plain error. [Quran, 33:36] As believers we find guidance regarding the Islamic rulings on inheritance in detail in the Quran. The law of inheritance has been given in the Quran in Surah An-Nisaa, in ayaat 11 and 12 and then in ayah 176 and it is part of faith to refer to these at all times.

How Can You Live By This Name?

1. Know that you will return to Al-Waarith.

Don’t stick to worldly possessions and don’t let them distract you from obedience to the one to whom both your possessions, yourself and your actions, will return. Don’t look for success in wealth and status, big cars and houses, if it compromises your relationship with Allah ‘azza wa jall— even though society pushes through this concept of “success.” Raise your children in putting Al-Waarith first in their actions and remind yourself often that very soon you will return to Him and you won’t be able to take any of your possessions in this world.

2. Say inna lillaahi wa inna ilayhi raji’oon.

Al-Waarith says: Who, when disaster strikes them, say, Indeed we belong to Allah , and indeed to Him we will return. [Quran, 2:156] Say inna lillaahi wa inna lillaahi raji’oon not only when someone passes away, but whenever a disaster or trial hits you, even if it is the loss of an object. Revive the sunnah and use this dhikr in times of loss!

3. Reflect on the ownership of Al-Waarith.

Take a look around you; everything you see– and don’t see— belongs to Allah. He gave you all the possessions you have— your car, your house, your children, your health, and even your time. Al-Waarith says: The kingdom of the heavens and the earth and everything in them belongs to Allah. He has power over all things. [Quran, 5:120] Realize Al-Waarith owns everything, nothing belongs to you, not even your own soul, and praise Him and ask Him for guidance to use your “possessions” to gain His pleasure. When you lose something or someone console yourself with the fact it was Allah’s to begin with.

4. Follow the rulings on inheritance of the Quran and sunnah.

The rulings and laws regarding inheritance in Islam are laid out in the Quran and demonstrated in the sunnah; refer to them in any situation, whether it brings you worldly benefit or not. Some of us follow their own rules of inheritance to gain more financial benefit, this is a grave sin and disobedience to Al-Waarith. So ask Him to guide you to stick to His rulings at all times!

5. Ask Al-Waarith.

The Messenger of Allaah salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used to say:

اللَّهُمَّمَتِّعْنِيبِسَمْعِي،وَبَصَرِي،وَاجْعَلْهُمَاالْوَارِثَمِنِّي،وَانْصُرْنِيعَلَىمَنْيَظْلِمُنِي،وَخُذْمِنْهُبِثَأْرِي

O Allaah, make my hearing and my sight strong, and make them my heirs (i.e., keep them strong until I die), and support me against the one who has wronged me, and avenge me. [Al-Bukhaari] Use this supplication in your daily life!

In the Quran you can find supplications in which waaritheen (inheritors) is used:

وَاجْعَلْنِيمِنوَرَ‌ثَةِجَنَّةِالنَّعِيم

And place me among the inheritors of the Garden of Pleasure. [Quran, 26:85]

وَزَكَرِ‌يَّاإِذْنَادَىٰرَ‌بَّهُرَ‌بِّلَاتَذَرْ‌نِيفَرْ‌دًاوَأَنتَخَيْرُ‌الْوَارِ‌ثِينَ

And [mention] Zechariah, when he called to his Lord, “My Lord, do not leave me alone [with no heir], while you are the best of inheritors. [Quran, 21:89]

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

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 sallam would 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.

Allah calls Himself Al-Waarith—The Inheritor, the Heir— on one occasion in the Quran. Al-Waarith is the One who remains after the extinction of everyone and everything. He is the only One to whom all will return; He is the sole inheritor and owner of the whole creation!

The Inheritor, The Supreme Heir

Waarith comes from the root waaw-raa-thaa, which points to four main meanings. The first meaning is to inherit. The second main meaning is to be an heir or survivor, and the third is to be the owner or maintainer after one has passed.

This root appears 35 times in the Quran in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are narithu (“we will inherit”), meeraathu (“(the) heritage”), and al waaritheena (” the inheritors”).

Linguistically, waratha refers to the action of inheriting whereas waarith is the one doing the action, the inheritor and al-meeraath is the inheritage. Even though there is the concept of heirs and inheritance of worldly possessions in this world, Al-Waarith is the supreme Heir to whom the heritage of the heavens and earth belongs.

Al-Waarith Himself says: … And indeed, it is We who give life and cause death, and We are the Inheritor [Quran, 15:23] …And to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. And Allah , with what you do, is [fully] Acquainted. [Quran, 3:180]

Inheritance in the Quran

Al-Waarith says: It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any opinion in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, has indeed strayed into a plain error. [Quran, 33:36] As believers we find guidance regarding the Islamic rulings on inheritance in detail in the Quran. The law of inheritance has been given in the Quran in Surah An-Nisaa, in ayaat 11 and 12 and then in ayah 176 and it is part of faith to refer to these at all times.

How Can You Live By This Name?

1. Know that you will return to Al-Waarith.

Don’t stick to worldly possessions and don’t let them distract you from obedience to the one to whom both your possessions, yourself and your actions, will return. Don’t look for success in wealth and status, big cars and houses, if it compromises your relationship with Allah ‘azza wa jall— even though society pushes through this concept of “success.” Raise your children in putting Al-Waarith first in their actions and remind yourself often that very soon you will return to Him and you won’t be able to take any of your possessions in this world.

2. Say inna lillaahi wa inna ilayhi raji’oon.

Al-Waarith says: Who, when disaster strikes them, say, Indeed we belong to Allah , and indeed to Him we will return. [Quran, 2:156] Say inna lillaahi wa inna lillaahi raji’oon not only when someone passes away, but whenever a disaster or trial hits you, even if it is the loss of an object. Revive the sunnah and use this dhikr in times of loss!

3. Reflect on the ownership of Al-Waarith.

Take a look around you; everything you see– and don’t see— belongs to Allah. He gave you all the possessions you have— your car, your house, your children, your health, and even your time. Al-Waarith says: The kingdom of the heavens and the earth and everything in them belongs to Allah. He has power over all things. [Quran, 5:120] Realize Al-Waarith owns everything, nothing belongs to you, not even your own soul, and praise Him and ask Him for guidance to use your “possessions” to gain His pleasure. When you lose something or someone console yourself with the fact it was Allah’s to begin with.

4. Follow the rulings on inheritance of the Quran and sunnah.

The rulings and laws regarding inheritance in Islam are laid out in the Quran and demonstrated in the sunnah; refer to them in any situation, whether it brings you worldly benefit or not. Some of us follow their own rules of inheritance to gain more financial benefit, this is a grave sin and disobedience to Al-Waarith. So ask Him to guide you to stick to His rulings at all times!

5. Ask Al-Waarith.

The Messenger of Allaah salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used to say:

اللَّهُمَّمَتِّعْنِيبِسَمْعِي،وَبَصَرِي،وَاجْعَلْهُمَاالْوَارِثَمِنِّي،وَانْصُرْنِيعَلَىمَنْيَظْلِمُنِي،وَخُذْمِنْهُبِثَأْرِي

O Allaah, make my hearing and my sight strong, and make them my heirs (i.e., keep them strong until I die), and support me against the one who has wronged me, and avenge me. [Al-Bukhaari] Use this supplication in your daily life!

In the Quran you can find supplications in which waaritheen (inheritors) is used:

وَاجْعَلْنِيمِنوَرَ‌ثَةِجَنَّةِالنَّعِيم

And place me among the inheritors of the Garden of Pleasure. [Quran, 26:85]

وَزَكَرِ‌يَّاإِذْنَادَىٰرَ‌بَّهُرَ‌بِّلَاتَذَرْ‌نِيفَرْ‌دًاوَأَنتَخَيْرُ‌الْوَارِ‌ثِينَ

And [mention] Zechariah, when he called to his Lord, “My Lord, do not leave me alone [with no heir], while you are the best of inheritors. [Quran, 21:89]

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

Allah calls Himself Al-Hameed— the Most Praiseworthy , the Praised One — on ten occasions in the Quran. He is the One who deserves all praise and honour. Al-Hameed is the only One who is truly worthy of all praise and thanks!

The Praiseworthy, the object of praise

Hameed comes from the root haa-meem-daal, which points to three main meanings. The first main meaning is to praise with a sense of deep adoration and submission. The second main meaning is to honor or speak well of and the third is to praise one for what is done by that one’s own will.

This root appears 63 times in the Quran in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are al hamdu (all praise be to), al-haamidoona (those who praise), and mahmoodan (praiseworthy).

Linguistically, hamd is based on mahabbah (love) and ta’dheem (honour) and it implies admiration and gratitude towards the one who is praised (mahmood). Allah is Al-Hameed, He is the One who is always deserving of praise, regardless if He is being praised or not.

Al-Hameed Himself says: And they had been guided [in worldly life] to good speech, and they were guided to the path of the Praiseworthy [Quran, 22:24] .. and it guides to the path of the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy. [Quran, 34:6] … O mankind, you are those in need of Allah , while Allah is the Free of need, the Praiseworthy. [Quran, 35:15]

Alhamdulillah: an exclusive praise

Believers say alhamdulillah– All praise and thanks are for Allah each day in prayer in Surah Al-Fatiha, the first word of Adam ‘alayhi sallam was alhamdulillah and alhamdulillah will be the last call of the people of Paradise: وَآخِرُدَعْوَاهُمْأَنِالْحَمْدُلِلَّهِرَبِّالْعَالَمِينَ … And the last of their call will be, Praise to Allah, Lord of the worlds! [Quran,10:10]

Whereas hamd means praise, the ‘al’ in al-hamd makes the praise definite and implies exclusivity. Al-hamd means all types of praise and every manner of thanks at all times is due to Allah ‘azza wa jall. Abu Ja`far bin Jarir said: The meaning of alhamdulillah is: all thanks are due purely to Allah, alone, not any of the objects that are being worshipped instead of Him, nor any of His creation. [Tafseer ibn Katheer]

Alhamdulillah therefore can be best described by the most complete, perfect, and beautiful praise that is deserved by and for Allah ‘azza wa jall only!


Alhamdulillah in the Quran

The phrase alhamdulillah occurs 38 times in the Quran and it is the praise Allah ‘azza wa jall praised Himself with. Some suwar (plural of surah) of the Quran begin with hamd, which announces that all praise and thanks belong to Allah ‘azza wa jall, instructs that when we begin something we should begin with praise (like in a sermon or when making dua’) and shows us how to praise Allah– by saying alhamdulillah.

How Can You Live by This Name?

1. Know the virtues alhamdulillah.
Increasing your Islamic knowledge and being aware of different virtues of acts of worship will motivate you to practise them! The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Verily, your Lord likes Al-Hamd [An-Nasaa’i] He salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam mentioned: the best dhikr (remembering Allah) is laa ilaaha illallah and the best supplication is alhamdulillah [At-Tirmidhee] And: The phrase alhamdulillah fills the scale. [Muslim] Realize the virtues of alhamdulillah!

2. Increase in saying alhamdulillah and feel it.
Increase in saying this beautiful praise in your daily life. And say it out of deep love, honour, and with humility and gratitude to your Lord. Remember Paradise when you say alhamdulillah, and ask Allah ‘azza wa jall to make you of those who say: Their call therein will be, ‘Exalted are You, O Allah,’ and their greeting therein will be, ‘Peace.’ And the last of their call will be, ‘Praise to Allah , Lord of the worlds.’ [Quran, 10:10]

3. Say it when you are blessed.
The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: No servant is blessed by Allah and says, alhamdulillah except that what he was given is better than that which he has himself acquired. [Ibn Maajah]

Allah calls Himself Al-Kaafi— The Sufficient— on one occasion in the Quran. Al-Kaafi is the One who is sufficient for His servants. He is the only one who suffices all the needs of the ones who believe and trust in Him, and no one is in need of anything else but Him!

The Sufficient— the one who suffices for all needs

Kaafi comes from the root kaaf-faa-yaa, which points to two main meanings. The first meaning is to be sufficient and to be enough. The second main meaning is to be able to protect, shield and save something perfectly.

This root appears 33 times in the Quran in two derived forms. Examples of these forms are
wa kafaa (“and sufficient”) and yakfihim (“sufficient for them”).

Linguistically kaafi refers to the one possessing the attribute of sufficiency, whereas kafaa refers to the verb “to suffice.” Al-Kaafi is the ultimate one to suffice each and every need with great ease and whenever He pleases for His believing and devoted servants.

Al-Kaafi Himself says: Is not Allah sufficient for His Servant [Prophet Muhammad]? And [yet], they threaten you with those [they worship] other than Him. And whoever Allah leaves astray – for him there is no guide [Quran, 39:36] and Indeed, We are sufficient for you against the mockers. [Quran, 15:95]

Al-Kaafi and other names

In the ayaat in which the root kafaa is mentioned, we often find the words wa kafaa bil-laahi (“and sufficient is Allah as …”) followed by a beautiful name of Allah.

We find this combination most often with the names Al-Wakeel (The Disposer of Affairs), Al-Haseeb (The Accountant, or Reckoner) and Ash-Shaheed (The Witness).

Al-Kaafi says: … And sufficient is Allah as Disposer of affairs [wakeela] [Quran, 33:48]. And: [Allah praises] those who convey the messages of Allah and fear Him and do not fear anyone but Allah. And sufficient is Allah as Accountant [haseeba] [33:39] and: And sufficient is Allah as Witness [shaheeda] [Quran, 4:166]

Most related in meaning is the beautiful name Al-Wakeel. Abu Alsood said: “tawakkal alallah” means to leave everything up to Allah ‘azza wa jall and “kafa allah wakeela” means Allah ‘azza wa jall is sufficient as protector as the one and only whom you leave everything up to [fragment of tafseer of Surah Al-Ahzab by Sheikh Ahmad Musa Jibril]

How Can You Live By This Name?

1. Have firm belief.
You might claim you believe Allah ‘azza wa jall can suffice all your needs, but do you live by this knowledge? Firm belief in Al-Kaafi and His perfect ability to suffice all your needs means you are not afraid of people and their decisions, nor are you worried about losing worldly possessions. Even when you feel you cannot defend yourself against people’s accusations, know Al-Kaafi will suffice you as a helper: Indeed, We are sufficient for you against the mockers [Quran, 15:95] And Allah is most knowing of your enemies; and sufficient is Allah as an ally, and sufficient is Allah as a helper [Quran, 4:45].So next time you feel anxious or stressed about people or belongings, remind yourself thta Allah is Al-Kaafi; He is the only one to suffice all your needs.

2. Remember the day you will be sufficient as an accountant.
[It will be said], Read your record. Sufficient is yourself against you this Day as accountant [Quran, 17:14]. This means that you have not been treated unjustly and nothing has been recorded against you except what you have done, because you remember everything that you have done, and no one will forget anything that he did. Everyone will be able to read his Book, whether he is literate or illiterate. [Tafseer ibn Katheer] So remember that one day you will be confronted with each deed you do, every step you take and every word you utter. Use this as a motivation to present a book full of good deeds in shaa’Allah.

3. Learn from the past.
As a believer you have an extremely important task: to take lessons from the past and specifically from the stories of the former people in the Quran. And how many have We destroyed from the generations after Noah. And sufficient is your Lord, concerning the sins of His servants, as Acquainted and Seeing. [Quran, 17:17] Allah ‘azza wa jall observes how you respond to these stories; do you study them, look at the characteristics of these former groups and their sins so you know what to avoid or do you treat them as “stories from the past” without acting upon them? Kafaa bil-laahi shaheeda– Allah is sufficient as a witness!

4. Be someone who strives to fulfil others’ needs.
Even though only Allah is perfect in sufficing each and every need, you can take inspiration from this beautiful attribute by doing your best to fulfil other person’s needs as much as you can. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Allah will aid a servant (of His) so long as the servant aids his brother. [Muslim]
5. Do dhikr with this name.
At the end of the day, before you go to sleep say:
“الْحَمْدُللهِالَّذِيأَطْعَمَنَاوَسَقَانَا،وَكَفَانَا،وَآوَانَا،فَكَمْمِمَّنْلَاكَافِيَلَهُوَلَامُؤْوي”.
Alhamdu lillaahil-lathee ‘at’amanaa wa saqaanaa, wa kafaanaa, wa ‘aawaanaa, fakam mimman laa kaafiya lahu wa laa mu’wiya. Which means: Praise is to Allah Who has provided us with food and with drink , sufficed us and gave us an abode for how many are there with no provision and no home. [Muslim]

Allah calls Himself Al-Kaafi— The Sufficient— on one occasion in the Quran. Al-Kaafi is the One who is sufficient for His servants. He is the only one who suffices all the needs of the ones who believe and trust in Him, and no one is in need of anything else but Him!

The Sufficient— the one who suffices for all needs

Kaafi comes from the root kaaf-faa-yaa, which points to two main meanings. The first meaning is to be sufficient and to be enough. The second main meaning is to be able to protect, shield and save something perfectly.

This root appears 33 times in the Quran in two derived forms. Examples of these forms are
wa kafaa (“and sufficient”) and yakfihim (“sufficient for them”).

Linguistically kaafi refers to the one possessing the attribute of sufficiency, whereas kafaa refers to the verb “to suffice.” Al-Kaafi is the ultimate one to suffice each and every need with great ease and whenever He pleases for His believing and devoted servants.

Al-Kaafi Himself says: Is not Allah sufficient for His Servant [Prophet Muhammad]? And [yet], they threaten you with those [they worship] other than Him. And whoever Allah leaves astray – for him there is no guide [Quran, 39:36] and Indeed, We are sufficient for you against the mockers. [Quran, 15:95]

Al-Kaafi and other names

In the ayaat in which the root kafaa is mentioned, we often find the words wa kafaa bil-laahi (“and sufficient is Allah as …”) followed by a beautiful name of Allah.

We find this combination most often with the names Al-Wakeel (The Disposer of Affairs), Al-Haseeb (The Accountant, or Reckoner) and Ash-Shaheed (The Witness).

Al-Kaafi says: … And sufficient is Allah as Disposer of affairs [wakeela] [Quran, 33:48]. And: [Allah praises] those who convey the messages of Allah and fear Him and do not fear anyone but Allah. And sufficient is Allah as Accountant [haseeba] [33:39] and: And sufficient is Allah as Witness [shaheeda] [Quran, 4:166]

Most related in meaning is the beautiful name Al-Wakeel. Abu Alsood said: “tawakkal alallah” means to leave everything up to Allah ‘azza wa jall and “kafa allah wakeela” means Allah ‘azza wa jall is sufficient as protector as the one and only whom you leave everything up to [fragment of tafseer of Surah Al-Ahzab by Sheikh Ahmad Musa Jibril]

How Can You Live By This Name?

1. Have firm belief.
You might claim you believe Allah ‘azza wa jall can suffice all your needs, but do you live by this knowledge? Firm belief in Al-Kaafi and His perfect ability to suffice all your needs means you are not afraid of people and their decisions, nor are you worried about losing worldly possessions. Even when you feel you cannot defend yourself against people’s accusations, know Al-Kaafi will suffice you as a helper: Indeed, We are sufficient for you against the mockers [Quran, 15:95] And Allah is most knowing of your enemies; and sufficient is Allah as an ally, and sufficient is Allah as a helper [Quran, 4:45].So next time you feel anxious or stressed about people or belongings, remind yourself thta Allah is Al-Kaafi; He is the only one to suffice all your needs.

2. Remember the day you will be sufficient as an accountant.
[It will be said], Read your record. Sufficient is yourself against you this Day as accountant [Quran, 17:14]. This means that you have not been treated unjustly and nothing has been recorded against you except what you have done, because you remember everything that you have done, and no one will forget anything that he did. Everyone will be able to read his Book, whether he is literate or illiterate. [Tafseer ibn Katheer] So remember that one day you will be confronted with each deed you do, every step you take and every word you utter. Use this as a motivation to present a book full of good deeds in shaa’Allah.

3. Learn from the past.
As a believer you have an extremely important task: to take lessons from the past and specifically from the stories of the former people in the Quran. And how many have We destroyed from the generations after Noah. And sufficient is your Lord, concerning the sins of His servants, as Acquainted and Seeing. [Quran, 17:17] Allah ‘azza wa jall observes how you respond to these stories; do you study them, look at the characteristics of these former groups and their sins so you know what to avoid or do you treat them as “stories from the past” without acting upon them? Kafaa bil-laahi shaheeda– Allah is sufficient as a witness!

4. Be someone who strives to fulfil others’ needs.
Even though only Allah is perfect in sufficing each and every need, you can take inspiration from this beautiful attribute by doing your best to fulfil other person’s needs as much as you can. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Allah will aid a servant (of His) so long as the servant aids his brother. [Muslim]
5. Do dhikr with this name.
At the end of the day, before you go to sleep say:
“الْحَمْدُللهِالَّذِيأَطْعَمَنَاوَسَقَانَا،وَكَفَانَا،وَآوَانَا،فَكَمْمِمَّنْلَاكَافِيَلَهُوَلَامُؤْوي”.
Alhamdu lillaahil-lathee ‘at’amanaa wa saqaanaa, wa kafaanaa, wa ‘aawaanaa, fakam mimman laa kaafiya lahu wa laa mu’wiya. Which means: Praise is to Allah Who has provided us with food and with drink , sufficed us and gave us an abode for how many are there with no provision and no home. [Muslim]

Allah calls Himself Al-Mawlaa— The Master, The Protector— on 11 occasions in the Quran. Al-Mawlaa is the only one who is truly in control and who provides the most perfect support in each situation. He is the one who is near to us, as both our patron and ally, He is our ultimate back-up and His help is the only we seek!

The Master, the Patron, the Benefactor and Helper

Mawlaa comes from the root waaw-laam-yaa, which points to four main meanings. The first main meaning is to be near and to be a friend and supporter. The second is to defend and guard (in a loving way) and the third main meaning is to turn towards something. The fourth main meaning is to be master and lord.

This root appears 232 times in the Quran in 12 derived forms. Examples of these forms are tawallaw (“they turn away”), awlaa (“is nearer or woe”), al-waliy (“the ally”) and awliyaa (“allies”).

Linguistically, mawlaa comes from the same root as waliy and is a ‘noun of place’ (ism al-makaan). Both have the root wilaya which is the opposite of enmity (adawaa).
A waliy is someone who is willing to help, protect and support you whereas a mawlaa is more than a waliy; it is someone who has the ability to protect you and does so. Allah is Al-Waliy, the Ally, the Guardian and He is Al-Mawlaa, the Master and Protector. He is the One infiniteProtector, He aloneis the best to protect and help.

Al-Mawlaa Himself says:… That is because Allah is the protector of those who have believed and because the disbelievers have no protector [Quran, 47:11] and …But if you cooperate against him – then indeed Allah is his protector, and Gabriel and the righteous of the believers and the angels, moreover, are [his] assistants [Quran, 66:4]

A beautiful phrase in the Quran

Allah ‘azza wa jall mentions a beautiful phrase of dhikr in the Quran:
But if they turn away – then know that Allah is your protector. Excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper [Quran, 8:40] This phrase: ni’mal Mawlaa wa ni’mal Naseer – refers to the fact that Allah is the excellent Protector and excellent Helper. The same wordings are used in another ayah: He is your protector; and excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper [Quran, 22:78]

Even though mentioned separately in the Quran, there’s another popular statement closely related in meaning: hasbunAllahu wa ni’mal Wakeel (Allah is sufficient for us and excellent Disposer of affairs). These two beautiful remembrances are often said together: Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal Wakeel, ni’mal maula wa ni’mal Naseer and combine a beautiful and powerful meaning.

Ni’ma means ‘what a perfect, what a wonderful, truly, and excellent…..!’. And what an excellent Trustee (Wakeel), what a perfect Master and Protector (Mawlaa) and what a wonderful Supporter and Defender (Naseer) Allah ‘azza wa jall is!

How Can You Live By This Name?

1. Call upon Al-Mawlaa and strive in His path. In both occasions Allah ‘azza wa jall mentions the statement: ni’mal Mawlaa wa ni’mal Naseer, it is preceded by the command to strive in the path of Allah and Islam.
So if you struggle with your soul, wealth and person in the way of Allah with all your might, know that Al-Mawlaa will help you and protect you in the most perfect way. Use this powerful dhikr in your daily life and reflect upon its meaning!

2. Strive to be of the awliyaa.
Allah has mentioned the signs by which His close friends or awliya’ may be known. They are: faith (eemaan) and piety (taqwa). Allah says: No doubt! Verily, the awliyaa’ of Allah, no fear shall come upon them nor shall they grieve. Those who believed, and used to fear Allah much [Quran, 10:62-63] Whoever is a believer and is pious is a close friend of Allah, and whoever is not like that is not a close friend of Allah. If he has some faith and piety then he is a friend of Allah to some extent. Nevertheless we cannot be certain about a specific person, but we say in general that everyone who believes and is pious is a friend of Allah (wali) [Fataawa Muhimmah, p. 83, 84] So strive to be of the close friends of Al-Mawlaa by fulfilling your obligatory acts of worship and supplementing them by many voluntary acts and good deeds!

3. Know that faith is thicker than blood. In the context of your relationship with the Prophet Ibraheem ‘alayhi sallam Allah ‘azza wa jall uses the word awlaa (أَوْلَى) in the Quran: Surely the people who have the best claim to a relationship (awlaa) with Ibraheem are those who followed him in the past, and presently this Prophet (Muhammad) and those who believe in him; Allah is the Guardian (Waliy) of the believers [Quran, 3: 68] Awlaa comes from the same root as mawlaa and means to be more entitled and worthier. What you can learn from this ayah is to actively study the lessons from the story of Ibraheem ‘alayhi sallam, subsequently increase your love for him and strengthen your Muslim identity over any other identities. Let it motivate you to follow the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam first and foremost above cultural practises!

4. Be helpful. Be supportive and helpful to others and instead of being passive, actively look for the weak in your community and stand up for their rights. Out of love and fear for Al-Mawlaa fulfil your duty in the ummah to the best of your ability as the Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Allah will aid a servant (of His) so long as the servant aids his brother. [Muslim]

5. Do dhikr with this name.
Every night before you go to sleep, recite the last ayaat of surah Al-Baqarah [Quran, 285 – 286] in which Allah’s Beautiful Name Al-Mawlaa is mentioned:

‎أَنْتَمَوْلَانَافَانْصُرْنَاعَلَىالْقَوْمِالْكَافِرِين
… You are our Protector, and help us against the disbelieving people [Quran, 2:286]
The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Whoever recites the last two verses of surah Al-Baqarah at night, those two verses shall be sufficient for him [Al-Bukhaaree, Muslim] Put a reminder in your bedroom, memorize them and learn the meaning.

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem

Allah calls Himself Al-Mubeen— The Clear, The Manifest One— once in the Quran. Al-Mubeen is the Clear and Manifest Truth. He is the One who clarifies what is falsehood and what is truth and manifests His signs to the creation!

The Clear, the Manifest, the One Beyond Resemblance

Mubeen comes from the root baa-yaa-noon, which points to main meanings. The first meaning is to be far and the second is to be of any type of distance. The third meaning is to be clear.

This root appears 523 times in the Quran in 13 derived forms. Examples of these forms are yabayyinu (“makes clear”), bayna (“between”), al-bayinaatu (“the clear proofs”)and mubeenun (“clear”).

Linguistically, mubeen implies something that is clear in essence and something which clarifies something else. Al-Mubeen is the One who is far from and above anything else in resemblance, His Names and Attributes are clear and He is the One who clarifies the truth from falsehood in this life and ultimately on the Day of Judgement.

Al-Mubeen Himself says: … That Day, Allah will pay them in full their deserved recompense, and they will know that it is Allah who is the perfect in justice [Quran, 24:25]

The Quran is Mubeen

Allah ‘azza wa jall described His Book as mubeen; al kitaabil-mubeen. This characteristic of the Quran can be found especially in chapters after the disjointed letters (al huroof muqatt’aat) are mentioned. For example: Ta-Seen-Meem. These are the ayaat of the ‘mubeen’ Book [Quran, 28:1-2] and Ha-meem. And by the ‘mubeen’ book [Quran, 43:1-2].

The Quran is far from being compared to any other book, it is a clear proof (bayyinah) in itself – it is authentic and unique- and it clarifies the truth from falsehood and guidance from misguidance!

How Can You Live By This Name?

1. Follow the signs.

Follow the way Allah Al-Mubeen made clear for you from the two sources: the Quran and sunnah. Al-Mubeen says: There has come to you from Allah a light and a clear (mubeen) Book [Quran, 5:15] Make sure you complete reading the Quran from cover to cover in your own language as a minimum. Study the explanation of the Quran, such as the Tafseer of Ibn Katheer to gain more understanding of the meanings. Don’t be satisfied by merely reciting the Quran without understanding it, how else can it be a source of guidance? So treat the ayaat of the Quran as the signs on your way through this life they are meant to be and focus on your final destination: Paradise.

Study the ways of the Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam as Allah ‘azza wa jall describes him as mubeen:It has not been revealed to me except that I am a clear (mubeen) warner [Quran, 38:70].

2. Know your enemy.

One of the ways Allah Al-Mubeen clarifies the straight path is by warning us against hindrances and enemies on our way for whom we should be prepared. Allah ‘azza wa jall says: O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful and good and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy [Quran, 2:168] Treat shaytan as your enemy and use ‘a’oodhu billaahi minash-shaytanir rajeem’ as a daily life weapon in times of anger, doubt and fear!

3. Never belittle sins.

It is Al-Mubeen clarifies for you what is right and what is wrong; never see a sin as small or big, rather consider the One you are sinning against. Allah ‘azza wa jall says: But whoever earns an offense or a sin and then blames it on an innocent [person] has taken upon himself a slander and manifest(mubeen) sin [Quran, 4:112]. Ask Al-Mubeen sincerely to make you recognize your sins, so you are able to repent and set them straight. How many people are blinded by their own sins?

4. Call yourself to account before you are called to account.

Al-Mubeen will ultimately clarify everything for us on the Day of Judgement, where lies will be made evident and the truth cannot be escaped from by the disbelievers. Allah ‘azza wa jall says: So worship what you will besides Him.” Say, “Indeed, the losers are the ones who will lose themselves and their families on the Day of Resurrection. Unquestionably, that is the manifest (mubeen) loss [Quran, 39:15]

Pray to Al-Mubeen that you will not become a case against yourself on this dreadful day because of your bad deeds overshadowing your good deeds, because of the sins you belittled or because of the friends you chose: O you who have believed, do not take the disbelievers as allies instead of the believers. Do you wish to give Allah against yourselves a clear (mubeen) case? [Quran, 4:144]

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem.

Allah calls Himself Al-Musta’aan— The One whose help is sought— on two occasions in the Quran. Al-Musta’aan is the one whose assistance and support are sought and in whom refuge is taken. Any help the creation provides to each other, is through His help alone!

The One sought for help

Musta’aan comes from the root ‘ayn-waaw-noon which points to two main meanings. The first main meaning is to seek or ask for help and assistance and the second is to aid, cooperate and help one another. A third meaning is to be middle-aged.

This root appears 11 times in the Quran in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are wa a’aanahu (“and helped him”), ta’aawanoo (“help one another”), nasta’eenu “(we ask for help”) and ‘awaanun (“middle-aged”).

Linguistically, isti’aanah refers to the concept of seeking help. It comes from the same root as nasta’een— we seek help— ta’aawun –help one another- and musta’aan – the one whose help is sought. Allah is Al-Musta’aan, which means that not only He is the Helper (An-Naseer), but He is the only one whose help first and foremost should be sought. He is the One who knows, sees, hears and controls all affairs and therefore His help is perfect at all times.

Al-Musta’aan Himself says: …And they brought upon his shirt false blood. [Jacob] said, Rather, your souls have enticed you to something, so patience is most fitting. And Allah is the one sought for help against that which you describe [Quran, 12:18] and … [The Prophet] has said, My Lord, judge [between us] in truth. And our Lord is the Most Merciful, the one whose help is sought against that which you describe. [Quran, 21:112].

The meaning of seeking help from Allah

In Islamic context, isti’aanah means to seek help from Allah ‘azza wa jall alone and it is an act of worship. In some circumstances seeking someone’s help other than Allah is considered as shirk and in certain circumstances it is not.

Firstly, in some issues you can only ask Allah and Allah alone and asking others in these circumstances is major shirk. Examples are asking others to seek blessings, provisions, removal of a disease or giving security.

Secondly, there are both worldly and religious matters that can be sought from the creation, however with certain conditions. An example is when you loose something and ask someone to help you look for it. Still you first turn to Allah and then ask the assistance of someone else in that matter.

The one sought for help needs to meet three conditions: they have to be alive, present and capable. We cannot ask the dead for help and we cannot ask those for help who are not present (the prophets could also not hear the calls for help from people who were not within their hearing). And we cannot seek that which others are not capable to give; like asking a shaykh to put you in Paradise, even if he is alive and you are with him. Only Allah ‘azza wa jall is capable of doing so, and asking someone else in this matter would be shirk.

How can you live by this name?

1.Say Allaahul Musta’aan. 
Each prayer you say: You alone do we worship, and You alone do we turn for help [Quran, 1:5] Do you really seek His help? Allaahul musta’aan is a beautiful statement you can find twice in the Quran.

In Surah Yuusuf, his sons clearly described something that had not taken place to Yaqoob; no wolf ate Yuusuf, but what could Yaqoob do? All he could do was turn to Allah and he said: Allaahul musta’aanu ‘alaa ma tasifoon – And Allah is the one sought for help against that which you describe. [Quran, 12:18] We can learn to use this dhikr when falsehood is presented as truth which causes you or others difficulty.

In surah Al-‘Anbiyaa the Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used this statement himself when disbelievers were disrespecting Allah: wa Rabbunar-Rahmaanul Musta’aan’alaa maa tasifoon– And our Lord is the Most Merciful, the One Whose help is sought against that which you describe [Quran, 21:112]

2. Seek Al-Musta’aan first and foremost.
Ibn Abbaas radiyallahu ‘anhu said: One day, I was riding behind the Prophet when he said: O boy! I will instruct you in some matters. Protect the commandments of Allah, He will preserve you. Safeguard His Rights, He will be ever with you. If you seek help, seek help from Allah alone; and if you need assistance, supplicate to Allah Alone for help. And remember that if all the people gather to benefit you, they will not be able to benefit you except that which Allah had foreordained (for you); and if all of them gather to do harm to you, they will not be able to afflict you with anything other than that which Allah had pre-destined against you. The pens had been lifted and the ink had dried up. [At-Tirmidhee]

Focus less on people, don’t fear the effect of anyone’s decisions and know that even if people seem to benefit you, the true source is Al-Musta’aan. Even though you are permitted to seek help from others; it is crucial you first call on Al-Musta’aan to provide help and rely on Him alone and not on others. So next time you borrow money of a friend, or even ask a teacher to help you understanding a lesson, first ask Allah to help and guide you and He will provide His help, sometimes by means of other people or even objects or animals (think of the birds who destroyed the army of Abraha described in Surah Al-Feel)!

3.Help one another. 
Al-Musta’aan says: And co-operate all of you together upon piety and righteousness. Help you one another in righteousness and piety; but do not help one another in sin and transgression. And fear Allaah. Verily, Allaah is severe in punishment. [Quran, 5:2] Extend help in that which is good and halaal to others and never help others in doing that which Allah ‘azza wa jall forbade. For example helping someone to buy alcohol, commit zinaa, etc.

4. Limit yourself in asking others. 
Allah’s Messenger salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: Who will guarantee me that he will not ask mankind for anything, and I will guarantee for him Paradise (in return)? So Thawban said, “I”, and he added, “And I would never ask anyone for anything.” [Abu Dawood] Even though in cases it is permissible to ask others, limiting yourself in seeking aid from others is a characteristic of the pious and takes courage and strength and truly reliance on Allah; the promise for those people is no less than Paradise. A dhikr you can use in this context is:

‎فَقُلْ حَسْبِي اللَّهُ لا إِلَهَ إِلاَّ هُوَ عَلَيْهِ تَوَكَّلْتُ وَهُوَ رَبُّ الْعَرْشِ الْعَظِيمِ Say: Allah is sufficient for me. None has the right to be worshiped but He, in Him I put my trust and He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne [Quran, 9:129]. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used to say this seven times in the morning and evening. Revive this sunnah and live by it!

Wallahu ta’alaa ‘alem

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Allah calls Himself An-Naseer— The Helper— on five occasions in the Quran. An-Naseer is the one who helps and supports His slaves. He is the One who backs, strengthens, defends, and aids the believers, and there is no helper but Him!

The Helper, the One who supports and defends

Naseer comes from the root noon-saad-raa, which points to four main meanings. The first main meaning is to help or give support and the second to defend a cause. The third main meaning is to grant victory or let triumph. The fourth is to baptize or make Christian.

This root appears 158 times in the Quran in 10 derived forms. Examples of these forms are yansuru (“He helps”), yantasiroona (“help or defend themselves”), al nasru (“the victory”), nasaaraa (“Christians”) and naasireena (“helpers).

Linguistically, there are different words used in the Quran referring to kinds of help. Examples are ista’anah (linked to Allah’s beautiful Name Al-Musta’aan) which means all sorts of help, ayada, az’ara, madda etcetera. The noun nasr includes help against an oppressor and help when wanting to overpower someone else.
 Nasrullaah is the help of Allah ‘azza wa jall which cannot be equalled to any other kind of help. Allah is An-Naseer, He is the ultimate Helper, Supporter and Defender of His believing slaves.

An-Naseer Himself says: … He is your protector; and excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper [Quran, 22:78] … And Allah is most knowing of your enemies; and sufficient is Allah as an ally, and sufficient is Allah as a helper [Quran, 4:45] … 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] and … But if they turn away – then know that Allah is your protector. Excellent is the protector, and Excellent is the helper [Quran, 8:40]

Different types of victory

An-Naseer says: But Allah is your protector, and He is the best of helpers [Quran, 3:150] The help or victory (nasr) of Allah ‘azza wa jall is of different types described by the scholars.

One type is the victory that is deserved; it comes with a price, which is faith and preparation. For example the victory of worthiness of the sahaabah at the battle of Badr. This is the type of victory for the believer who obeys Allah ‘azza wa jall and wins.

The second type is a victory that is not deserved by the faith and obedient behaviour of a certain group, but Allah ‘azza wa jall decrees victory for them according to His wisdom in that situation.

The third type is the principal victory, which might not be seen as victory by others, but in reality indicates the true victory of a human being. An example are the believers in the story of the Ditch described in surah Al-Burooj, who were killed in masses. And the hairdresser of the daughter Fir’awn of whom her children and herself were thrown in boiling oil. How did they win? They stood by their belief in Allah ‘azza wa jall and principles and gained the ultimate victory: the pleasure and reward of An-Naseer for the martyrs with the highest Paradise.

How can you live by this name?

1. Aid Allah’s cause.

An-Naseer says: If Allah should aid you, no one can overcome you; but if He should forsake you, who is there that can aid you after Him? And upon Allah let the believers rely [Quran, 3:160]. Help in Allah’s cause by defending Islam, spread the message of the Quran and standing by your Islamic principle. Teach the children to stand up for the truth by showing them the correct role models and hero’s of Islam, both contemporary and from the past. The Muslim nation is in need of those who stick to the principles of Islam. So get close to the Quran and inspire others to, use it as a guidance in your actions and the help of Allah will come. O you who believe! If you help (in the cause of) Allah, He will help you, and make your foothold firm [Quran, 47:7]

2. Help your brothers and sisters.
As part of a hadith recorded by Muslim, the Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: …Allah is helping the servant as long as the servant is helping his brother. The point is to look out actively where you can help your brothers and sisters so you will get the help of An-Naseer in return. Sometimes you can help someone financially by paying their debts, spiritually by giving them emotional support and advice or even by your reputation or authority. Use all the means An-Naseer gave you to help those in need!

3. Don’t be lazy. Sometimes people get frustrated and imagine that Allah will not help them. Never mistrust Allah and His help! To deserve the help from An-Naseer you must strongly believe in Him and His attributes. Take your inspiration from Musa ‘alayhi sallam: And when the two companies saw one another, the companions of Moses said, “Indeed, we are to be overtaken!

[Moses] said, No! Indeed, with me is my Lord; He will guide me [Quran, 26:61-62] But don’t just have faith alone without action. You need to prepare as well; don’t be lazy and expect the support of Allah to come! So think well of Allah, believe in Him and do whatever you can in taking pre-cautions.

4. Know help comes from Allah alone. Never think you were helped in a certain situation, just because you made the right decision or because you were so skilful. Don’t say “I did this and succeeded”, rather say “Allah is my Helper and all success comes from Him alone”!
A subtle way An-Naseer helps you is when He fills your heart with happiness and security when you make a right decision and He fills it with anxiety and pessimism when you make a wrong decision. So recognize the help of Allah in your life and be grateful.

5. Live by Surah An-Nasr. Surah An-Nasr [Quran 110] or the Victory, teaches you many lessons: apply them! This surah indicates the successfull spread of Islam, the near-approaching death of the Prophet and describes etiquettes to observe after gaining victory after going through lots of struggles. Instead of being arrogant, you should praise Allah, thank Him and seek His forgiveness. So next time you gain something or succeed after a challenge; say subhanAllah, alhamdulillah and astaghfirullah from the heart!

6. Call on An-Naseer.