Skip to main content

The Explanation of Allāh’s Name in Sūrah al-Fātiḥah

Imām Ibn al-Qayyim

A commentary on Allāh’s name which delineates the meaning of all of His magnificent names and guides to them in a general sense.

Imām Ibn al-Qayyim [d. 751 AH] said: “The name ‘Allāh’ delineates the meaning of all of His magnificent names and guides to them in a general sense. For the magnificent names of Allāh elaborate and clarify the attributes of the true God. These attributes themselves are derived from the name ‘Allāh’ which refers to His godliness and to Him being worshipped in truth as creation of all types turn to Him in worship. Their worship is borne from their love for Him and for the purpose of commemorating His greatness and enhancing it. They humbly submit themselves to Him and turn to Him in fear for their needs and in all proceedings. For this is the stipulation of His Lordliness and boundless mercy, both of which indicate His complete Sovereignty over His creation. His deserving of all Praise, His Godliness, Lordliness, Mercy, and Sovereignty over His creation all signify that He only be described by attributes of complete perfection. That is because it is impossible to associate such things to a being that is neither alive, or to one who lacks the ability to hear or see or execute actions, or speak or do that which he wills, or one whose actions are not borne from wisdom.”

Source: Tafsīr al-Qayyim: 32
Translated by: Riyāḍ al-Kanadī

Published: February 23, 2022
Edited: May 27, 2022