Life of Prophet Muhammad (Continuation)

Life of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.s - Yasir Qadhi

Life of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.s - Yasir Qadhi - 1




Life of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.s - Yasir Qadhi - 2




Life of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.s - Yasir Qadhi - 3




Life of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.s - Yasir Qadhi - 4

The Life of Prophet Muhammad

The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Sh. Yasir Qadhi

1 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Characteristics of the Prophet (s) - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




2 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Characteristics of the Prophet (s) - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




3 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Characteristics of the Prophet (s) - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




4 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Sources - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




5 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Pre-Birth Era 1 - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




6 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Pre-Birth Era 2 - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




7 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Birth & Childhood - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




8 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - The Adolescence - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




9 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Building of the Ka'bah - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




10 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - The First Revelation - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




11 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - The Early Preaching - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




12 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - The Opposition - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




13 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Persecution and Torture - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




14 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Migration to Abyssinia - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




15 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - The Boycott - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




16 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Incident of Taif - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




17 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Israa & Mi'raj 1 - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




18 - The Life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - Israa & Mi'raj 2 - Sh. Yasir Qadhi

Tajweed (Reciting of the Qur'an)

Lessons on Tajweed (Reciting of the Qur'an) by Yasir Qadhi

Lesson 1




Lesson 2




Lesson 3




Lesson 4




Lesson 5




Lesson 6




Lesson 7




Lesson 8




Lesson 9




Lesson 10




Lesson 11




Lesson 12




Lesson 13




Lesson 14




Lesson 15




Lesson 16




Lesson 17




Lesson 18




Lesson 19




Lesson 20




Lesson 21




Lesson 22




Lesson 23




Lesson 24




Lesson 25




Lesson 26




Lesson 27




Lesson 28




Lesson 29




Lesson 30

Sciences of the Qur'an

Sciences of the Qur'an -1- Introduction - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -2- History of the Sciences of the Qur'an - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -3- The Definition of the Qur'an - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -4- The Names & Descriptions of the Qur'an - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -5- The Concept of Revelation - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -6- Concept of Inspiration & How the Qur'an was Revealed - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -7- The Categorization of the "Makki" & "Madani" verses - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -8- The Causes of Revelation - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -9- The Compilation & Preservation of the Qur'an - 1 - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -10- The Compilation & Preservation of the Qur'an - 2 - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -11- The Verses & 'Suras' of the Qur'an - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -12- The Various Recitations of the Qur'an - Sh. Yasir Qadhi




Sciences of the Qur'an -13- The Miraculous Nature of the Qur'an - Sh. Yasir Qadhi

Ramadan

Today is the first day of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, which is the month of Muslim fasting. The Muslim calendar is based on the moon, not on the sun as the one commonly used in the Western countries. In the Muslim calendar, there are 12 moon months. Each of them begins at the new moon and has 29 or 30 days. So, in the year, there are 354 or 355 days. Since it is not allowed to add the additional 13th month (as Arabs did before Islam), the Muslim year is 11 days shorter than the year based on the sun movement, and each month can be at any season. This year, Ramadan is from August 21 to September 19. Last year it began and ended 11 days later, next year it will begin and end 11 days earlier, and so on.

During Ramadan, each Muslim is required to abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking from the morning dawn to the sunset. There are exceptions for sick people, travelers, pregnant women, and in some other cases. However, they are required to fast the same number of days at another time. In some cases, there are some exceptions as well.

In addition to fasting in Ramadan which is fard (mandatory), there are some other special Muslim practices. There is an additional night prayer (tarawih) which is performed only in Ramadan. Tarawih is sunnah (desirable), and many Muslims perform it every night in a mosque. Also, in Ramadan, it is recommended to read Qur'an more than usually. In Islam, only the Arabic original of Qur'an is considered to be Qur'an, no translations. So, reading Qur'an is reading it in Arabic. During the last 10 days of Ramadan, it is advisable to spend longer time, especially, in nights, in prayers in mosques.

It is fard (mandatory) to eat something early in the morning before the morning dawn and right after the sunset. Some Muslims invite other people to their evening meal such as their relatives, friends, neighbors, and poor people. Thus, sometimes it also becomes an act of charity.

Muslims consider Ramadan to be a holy month. It is not just a month when they fast, exercising their will (it is not so easy to fast every day the whole month). This is the month of special Muslim worship to God. All the practices in this month (fasting, prayers, reading of Qur'an, feeding the poor) are the acts of worship to God according to Islam.

Muslim Creeds

The most famous Muslim creed is called shahada (testimony) or kalima shahada (the word of testimony). There are two variants of shahada:

1. 'Ashhadu 'al-la 'ilaha 'illa-llah wa-'ashhadu 'anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluh.
Translation: I testify that there is no god besides Allah and I testify that Muhammad is His slave and messenger.

2. La 'ilaha 'illa-llah wa Muhammadu-r-rasulu-llah.
Translation: There is no god besides Allah and Muhammad is Allah's messenger.

Everyone who desires to become a Muslim is required to pronounce shahada. Actually, this is the only requirement. So, everyone who pronounces shahada, believing that it is true, becomes a Muslim. Muslims also often pronounce shahada in their worship and in other situations. Pronounciation of shahada is the first of the five main rituals of Islam. Others are prayer, fast in Ramadan, alms (zakat), and pilgrimage (hajj).

The first part of shahada implies not only rejection all the pagan deities, but also rejection of the Trinity. The second part implies that Muhammad is the last prophet who brought the last revelations and laws from Allah. Muslims are required to believe everything that Muhammad said and keep all his commandments.

There are also longer Muslim creeds.
1. Iman mujmal (short confession of faith)
Amantu bi-llahi wa huwa bi-'asmaihi wa-sifatihi wa-kabiltu jami'a ahkamihi wa-'arkanih.
Translation: I believe in Allah with all His names and attributes and receive all His laws and commandments.

This confession emphasizes faith in Allah and His names and attributes.

2. Iman mufassal (detailed confession of faith). It is also called "Amantu" (from the first word which means "I believe"). There are two versions of "Amantu."

1) Amantu bi-llahi wa-mala'ikatihi wa-kutubihi wa-rusulihi wa-l-yawmi-l-'ahiri wa-l-kadiri hairihi wa-sharrihi mina-llahi ta'ala wa-l-ba'si ba'da-l-mawt.
Translation: I believe in Allah, and His angels, and His books, and His messengers, and the last day, and predestination of good and evil from Allah the Most High, and resurrection after death.

2) Amantu bi-llahi wa-mala'ikatihi wa-kutubihi wa-rusulihi wa-l-yawmi-l-'ahiri wa bi-l-kadiri hairihi wa-sharrihi mina-llahi ta'ala wa-l-ba'su ba'da-l-mawti hakk. 'Ashhadu 'al-la 'ilaha 'illa-llah wa-'ashhadu 'anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluh.
Translation: I believe in Allah, and His angels, and His books, and His messengers, and the last day, and in predestination of good and evil from Allah the Most High, and that resurrection after death is true. I testify that there is no god besides Allah and I testify that Muhammad is His slave and messenger.

"Amantu" is based on the hadith regarding Jibril (hadith 0001 from Sahih Muslim) where Jibril asked Muhammad about Islam, Iman (faith), and Ihsan (sincerity). Here is the part regarding faith:

He (the inquirer) said: Inform me about Iman (faith). He (the Holy Prophet) replied: That you affirm your faith in Allah, in His angels, in His Books, in His Apostles, in the Day of Judgment, and you affirm your faith in the Divine Decree about good and evil.

Here instead of "Apostles" should be "messengers."

So, according to Islam, the main points of faith are:
1. Allah
2. His angels
3. His books (Holy Scriptures)
4. His messengers and prophets
5. The Day of Judgment
6. Allah's predestination of everything good and evil

According to Sunni theology, there are two stages of faith:
1. Ijmali iman (general faith) - faith in the two point of shahada.
2. Tafsili iman (detailed faith) - faith in ever point of of "Amantu." A person who denies even one of them is not considered to be a Muslim.

Arguments for God's Existence

Both Christian and Muslim theology contain a number of arguments for God's existence. Actually, they are not so convincing for atheists and there are refutations of them. These refutations, in turn, have some weaknesses and also can be refuted. So, theists (those who believe in God) and atheists cannot convince one another by these arguments or their refutations. However, these arguments give theists logical foundation of their faith. I have no intention to convince atheist to believe in God and post these arguments only as a part of theology.

There are four main arguments for God's existence in Christian theology. Other arguments are based on them. The same is, actually, with arguments for God's existence in Muslim theology.

1. Cosmological argument
The fact of the existence of the universe testifies that God exists; the universe is consequence, and God is the cause.

There may be three causes of the existence of the universe:
1. Eternal matter and eternal universe.
2. Accidence as the eternal cause (impersonal cause).
3. Eternal God (Person).

The first variant contradicts the laws of thermodynamics and lost popularity. The second and the third variants are both matters of faith - faith in impersonal evolution or faith in the personal God.

2. Teleological argument
The world is in order. We can see order, purpose, and design in it. This causes us to think that there is the one who designed it - its Creator.

3. Anthropological argument
Human being is a living being, has mind and morality. His existence indicates the existence of the wise, living, and righteous God.

4. Ontological argument
We have a concept of the most perfect Being. The concept of Him involves His existence because something that does not exist is not so perfect as something that exists. Consequently, the most perfect Being must exist.

In the Muslim theology, there are also two arguments for the existence of the only one God. I did not find them in the Christian theology.

1. Burhani Tamanu
Suppose, there are two Gods who equal one another in everything. They both are free in expression of their will and in their power. Suppose, one of them wants a man to move and the other wants a man to rest. There are only three possibilities:
1. The will of each of them is fulfilled. However, this is impossible.
2. The will of neither of them is fulfilled. This means that both of them are not almighty because they cannot fulfill their will. So, this means that neither of them is God.
3. The will of one of them is fulfilled. This means that the other one is not almighty because his will is not fulfilled. However, both of them are equal to one another. It means that both of them are not almighty and consequently neither of them is God.
So, all the three possibilities are wrong.

If the two Gods come to the mutual agreement, it may mean:
1. Their union is forced. Then, both of them are limited in their power, but God cannot be limited.
2. Their union is voluntary, that is, one God willingly submit to another God. Then, the submissive God:
1) is able to contradict the other God. Then, they will fight with one another (see above);
2) is unable to contradict the other God. Then, it means that he is not almighty. The other God is completely equal to the submissive one. It means that he is not almighty either and neither of them is God;
3) has power to contradict, but has no choice, that is, limited in his will. Then, he is also not God.

2. Burhani Tawarud
Suppose, there are several creators of this universe. It may mean one of the three possibilities:
1. In order to create the universe, they had to join their power. It means that none of them is almighty is none of them is God.
2. Each God created everything separately. Then, there would be the same two perfect things, for example, two suns. However, it is useless to create the existing unique thing again.
3. Everything was created by one creator without the others' participation. This means that they were limited in their will and choice. So, they did not create anything. However, all of them are equal. This means that the first one did not create anything either. Then, this world would not exist.

Other Allah's Names Based on Qur'an

These names are not mentioned in Qur'an directly, but are based on what is written about Allah and His actions in some ayahs (verses) of Qur'an.

1. Al-'Adl (the Just)

And the word of your Lord has been accomplished truly and justly; there is none who can change His words, and He is the Hearing, the Knowing. (6:115, Shakir's translation)

2. Al-Ba'is (the Resurrecting)

How do you deny Allah and you were dead and He gave you life? Again He will cause you to die and again bring you to life, then you shall be brought back to Him. (2:28, Shakir's translation)

3. Al-Baki (the Eternal)

But will abide (for ever) the Face of thy Lord,- full of Majesty, Bounty and Honour. (55:27, Yusufali's translation)

4. Al-Basit (the Widening)

Who is it that will offer of Allah a goodly gift, so He will multiply it to him manifold, and Allah straitens and amplifies, and you shall be returned to Him. (2:245, Shakir's translation)

5. Ad-Dafiy (the Protector from troubles)

So they put them to flight by Allah's permission. And Dawood slew Jalut, and Allah gave him kingdom and wisdom, and taught him of what He pleased. And were it not for Allah's repelling some men with others, the earth would certainly be in a state of disorder; but Allah is Gracious to the creatures. (2:251, Shakir's translation)

6. Ad-Da'i (the Calling)

O you who believe! answer (the call of) Allah and His Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life; and know that Allah intervenes between man and his heart, and that to Him you shall be gathered. (8:24, Shakir's translation)

7. Ad-Darr (the Harming)

What! shall I take besides Him gods whose intercession, If the Beneficent Allah should desire to afflict me with a harm, shall not avail me aught, nor shall they be able to deliver me? (36:23, Shakir's translation)

8. Al-Fasil (the Distinguishing)

Surely those who believe and those who are Jews and the Sabeans and the Christians and the Magians and those who associate (others with Allah)-- surely Allah will decide between them on the day of resurrection; surely Allah is a witness over all things. (22:17, Shakir's translation)

9. Al-Fattah (the Opening)

And if the people of the towns had believed and guarded (against evil) We would certainly have opened up for them blessings from the heaven and the earth, but they rejected, so We overtook them for what they had earned. (7:96, Shakir's translation)

10. Al-Hadi (the Leading the right way)

And that those on whom knowledge has been bestowed may learn that the (Qur'an) is the Truth from thy Lord, and that they may believe therein, and their hearts may be made humbly (open) to it: for verily Allah is the Guide of those who believe, to the Straight Way. (22:54, Yusufali's translation)

11. Al-Hafid (the Humiliating)

Abasing (one party), exalting (the other). (56:3, Shakir's translation)

12. Al-Hasib (the Counting)

Those who deliver the messages of Allah and fear Him, and do not fear any one but Allah; and Allah is sufficient to take account. (33:39, Shakir's translation)

13. Al-Kabid (the Narrowing)

Who is it that will offer of Allah a goodly gift, so He will multiply it to him manifold, and Allah straitens and amplifies, and you shall be returned to Him. (2:245, Shakir's translation)

14. Al-Kadi (the Fulfilling His order)

Wonderful Originator of the heavens and the earth, and when He decrees an affair, He only says to it, Be, so there it is. (2:117, Shakir's translation)

15. Al-Kadim (the Warning)

He saith: Contend not in My presence, when I had already proffered unto you the warning. (50:28, Pickthal's translation)

16. Al-Ka'fi (the Sufficient)

Is not Allah sufficient for His servant? And they seek to frighten you with those besides Him; and whomsoever Allah makes err, there is no guide for him. (39:36, Shakir's translation)

17. Al-Kasim (the Distributor)

Will they distribute the mercy of your Lord? We distribute among them their livelihood in the life of this world, and We j have exalted some of them above others in degrees, that some of them may take others in subjection; and the mercy of your Lord is better than what they amass. (43:32, Shakir's translation)

18. Al-Malja (the Sheltering)

And to the three who were left behind, until the earth became strait to them notwithstanding its spaciousness and their souls were also straitened to them; and they knew it for certain that there was no refuge from Allah but in Him; then He turned to them (mercifully) that they might turn (to Him); surely Allah is the Oft-returning (to mercy), the Merciful. (9:118, Shakir's translation)

19. Al-Mu'ahhir (the Moving back)

And if Allah had destroyed men for their iniquity, He would not leave on the earth a single creature, but He respites them till an appointed time; so when their doom will come they shall not be able to delay (it) an hour nor can they bring (it) on (before its time). (16:61, Shakir's translation)

20. Al-Mu'azzib (the Punishing)

None punisheth as He will punish on that day! (89:25, Pickthal's translation)

21. Al-Mubayyin (the Explaining)

Allah thus makes clear to you His communications that you may understand. (2:242, Shakir's translation)

22. Al-Mubashshir (the Speaking a good news)

That is of which Allah gives the good news to His servants, (to) those who believe and do good deeds. Say: I do not ask of you any reward for it but love for my near relatives; and whoever earns good, We give him more of good therein; surely Allah is Forgiving, Grateful. (42:23, Shakir's translation)

23. Al-Mubki (the Making weep)

And that He it is Who makes (men) laugh and makes (them) weep. (53:43, Shakir's translation)

24. Al-Mudabbir (the Sovereign)

Surely your Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six periods, and He is firm in power, regulating the affair, there is no intercessor except aher His permission; this is Allah, your Lord, therefore serve Him; will you not then mind? (10:3, Shakir's translation)

25. Al-Mudhik (the Making laugh)

And that He it is Who makes (men) laugh and makes (them) weep. (53:43, Shakir's translation)

26. Al-Mufawwi (the Fulfilling His Promises)

Therefore be not in doubt as to what these worship; they do not worship but as their fathers worshipped before; and most surely We will pay them back in full their portion undiminished. (11:109, Shakir's translation)

27. Al-Mugni (the Enriching)

And that He it is Who enriches and gives to hold. (53:48, Shakir's translation)

28. Al-Muhsi (the Counting)

Certainly He has a comprehensive knowledge of them and He has numbered them a (comprehensive) numbering. (19:94, Shakir's translation)

29. Al-Muhsin (the Merciful)

He specially chooses for His mercy whom He pleases; and Allah is the Lord of mighty grace. (3:74, SHakir's translation)

30. Al-Muhyi (the Reviving)

He gives life and causes death, and to Him you shall be brought back. (10:56, Shakir's translation)

31. Al-Mujib (the Responding)

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, then surely I am very near; I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he calls on Me, so they should answer My call and believe in Me that they may walk in the right way. (2:186, Shakir's translation)

32. Al-Mukaddim (the Moving forward)

And if Allah had destroyed men for their iniquity, He would not leave on the earth a single creature, but He respites them till an appointed time; so when their doom will come they shall not be able to delay (it) an hour nor can they bring (it) on (before its time). (16:61, Shakir's translation)

33. Al-Mukallib (the Turning)

And We will turn their hearts and their sights, even as they did not believe in it the first time, and We will leave them in their inordinacy, blindly wandering on. (6:110, Shakir's translation)

34. Al-Mukmil (the Completing)

Forbidden to you is that which dies of itself, and blood, and flesh of swine, and that on which any other name than that of Allah has been invoked, and the strangled (animal) and that beaten to death, and that killed by a fall and that killed by being smitten with the horn, and that which wild beasts have eaten, except what you slaughter, and what is sacrificed on stones set up (for idols) and that you divide by the arrows; that is a transgression. This day have those who disbelieve despaired of your religion, so fear them not, and fear Me. This day have I perfected for you your religion and completed My favor on you and chosen for you Islam as a religion; but whoever is compelled by hunger, not inclining willfully to sin, then surely Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. (5:3, Shakir's translation)

35. Al-Muntakim (the Avenging)

Then when they displeased Us, We inflicted a retribution on them, so We drowned them all together. (43:55, Shakir's translation)

36. Al-Musawwa (the Fashioning)

Who created thee, then fashioned, then proportioned thee? (82:7, Pickthal's translation)

37. Al-Muste'an (the Helper)

He said: O my Lord! judge Thou with truth; and our Lord is the Beneficent Allah, Whose help is sought against what you ascribe (to Him). (21:112, Shakir's translation)

38. Al-Muta'ahir (the Purifying)

When He caused calm to fall on you as a security from Him and sent down upon you water from the cloud that He might thereby purify you, and take away from you the uncleanness of the Shaitan, and that He might fortify your hearts and steady (your) footsteps thereby. (8:11, Shakir's translation)

39. Al-Muta'ali (the Highest)

Supremely exalted is therefore Allah, the King, the Truth, and do not make haste with the Quran before its revelation is made complete to you and say: O my Lord! increase me in knowledge. (20:114, Shakir's translation)

40. Al-Muyassir (the Relieving)

The month of Ramazan is that in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance to men and clear proofs of the guidance and the distinction; therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein, and whoever is sick or upon a journey, then (he shall fast) a (like) number of other days; Allah desires ease for you, and He does not desire for you difficulty, and (He desires) that you should complete the number and that you should exalt the greatness of Allah for His having guided you and that you may give thanks. (2:185, Shakir's translation)

41. Al-Muzakki (the Purifying)

Have you not considered those who attribute purity to themselves? Nay, Allah purifies whom He pleases; and they shall not be wronged the husk of a date stone. (4:49, Shakir's translation)

42. Al-Muzayyin (the Decorating)

And know that the messenger of Allah is among you. If he were to obey you in much of the government, ye would surely be in trouble; but Allah hath endeared the faith to you and hath beautified it in your hearts, and hath made disbelief and lewdness and rebellion hateful unto you. Such are they who are the rightly guided. (49:7, Pickthal's translation)

43. Al-Muzill (the Humiliating)

So go about in the land for four months and know that you cannot weaken Allah and that Allah will bring disgrace to the unbelievers. (9:2, Shakir)

44. An-Nasir (the Helper)

And We helped them, so they were the vanquishers. (37:116, Shakir's translation)

45. Ar-Rafi (the Exalting)

And We raised him high in Heaven. (19:57, Shakir's translation)

46. As-Sadik (the Faithful)

(This is) Allah's promise! Allah will not fail His promise, but most people do not know. (30:6, Shakir's translation)

47. As-Sa'ik (the Drawing to hell)

And We will drive the guilty to hell thirsty. (19:86, Shakir's translation)

48. As-Sani (the perfect Creator)

And thou seest the hills thou deemest solid flying with the flight of clouds: the doing of Allah Who perfecteth all things. Lo! He is Informed of what ye do. (27:88, Pickthal's translation)

49. Ash-Shafi (the Healer)

And when I sicken, then He healeth me. (26:80, Pickthal's translation)

50. Ash-Shafi' (the Intercessor)

Or have they taken intercessors besides Allah? Say: what! even though they did not ever have control over anything, nor do they understand. (39:43, Shakir's translation)

51. Ash-Sharih (the Opening)

What! is he whose heart Allah has opened for Islam so that he is in a light from his Lord (like the hard-hearted)? Nay, woe to those whose hearts are hard against the remembrance of Allah; those are in clear error. (39:22, Shakir's translation)

Allah's Names in Qur'an

1. Al-'Afuww (the Forgiving)

If ye do good openly or keep it secret, or forgive evil, lo! Allah is ever Forgiving, Powerful. (4:149, Pickthal's translation)

2. Al-'Ahir (the Last)

He is the First and the Last and the Ascendant (over all) and the Knower of hidden things, and He is Cognizant of all things. (57:3, Shakir's translation)

3. Ahkam-ul-Hakimin (the best Judge)

Is not Allah the best of the Judges? (95:8, Shakir's translation)

4. Al-'Alim (the Knowing)

And Allah's is the East and the West, therefore, whither you turn, thither is Allah's purpose; surely Allah is Amplegiving, Knowing. (2:115, Shakir's translation)

5. Al-'Aliyy (the High)

And it is not for any mortal that Allah should speak to him except by revelation or from behind a veil, or by sending a messenger and revealing by His permission what He pleases; surely He is High, Wise. (42:51, Shakir's translation)

6. Arham-ur-Rahimin

And Ayub, when he cried to his Lord, (saying): Harm has afflicted me, and Thou art the most Merciful of the merciful. (21:83, Shakir's translation)

7. Al-'Asim (the Protector)

He said: I will betake myself for refuge to a mountain that shall protect me from the water. Nuh said: There is no protector today from Allah's punishment but He Who has mercy; and a wave intervened between them, so he was of the drowned. (11:43, Shakir's translation)

8. Al-'Awwal (the First)

He is the First and the Last and the Ascendant (over all) and the Knower of hidden things, and He is Cognizant of all things. (57:3, Shakir's translation)

9. Al-'Azim (the Great)

His is what is in the heavens and what is in the earth, and He is the High, the Great. (42:4, Shakir's translation)

10. Al-'Aziz (the Mighty)

Therefore do not think Allah (to be one) failing in His promise to His messengers; surely Allah is Mighty, the Lord of Retribution. (14:47, Shakir's translation)

11. Al-Badi' (the Originator)

The Originator of the heavens and the earth! When He decreeth a thing, He saith unto it only: Be! and it is. (2:117, Picthal's translation)

12. Al-Bari' (the Maker)

He is Allah the Creator, the Maker, the Fashioner; His are the most excellent names; whatever is in the heavens and the earth declares His glory; and He is the Mighty, the Wise. (59:24, Shakir's translation)

13. Al-Barr (the Benign)

Surely we called upon Him before: Surely He is the Benign, the Merciful. (52:28)

14. Al-Basir (the Seeing)

Have they not seen the birds above them spreading out their wings and closing them? Naught upholdeth them save the Beneficent. Lo! He is Seer of all things. (67:19, Pickthal's translation)

15. Al-Batin (the Hidden, the Knower of hidden things)

He is the First and the Last and the Ascendant (over all) and the Knower of hidden things, and He is Cognizant of all things. (57:3, Shakir's translation)

16. Al-Falik (the Cleaver)

He is the Cleaver of the Daybreak, and He hath appointed the night for stillness, and the sun and the moon for reckoning. That is the measuring of the Mighty, the Wise. (16:96, Pickthal's translation)

17. Al-Fatir (the Creator)

O my Lord! Thou hast given me (something) of sovereignty and hast taught me (something) of the interpretation of events - Creator of the heavens and the earth! Thou art my Protecting Guardian in the world and the Hereafter. Make me to die muslim (unto Thee), and join me to the righteous. (12:101, Pickthal's translation)

18. Al-Gaffar (the Forgiving)

Then I said, Ask forgiveness of your Lord, surely He is the most Forgiving. (71:10, Shakir's translation)

19. Al-Ganiyy (the Self-sufficient)

O men! you are they who stand in need of Allah, and Allah is He Who is the Self-sufficient, the Praised One. (35:15, Shakir's translation)

20. Al-Habir (the Aware)

Surely Allah is He with Whom is the knowledge of the hour, and He sends down the rain and He knows what is in the wombs; and no one knows what he shall earn on the morrow; and no one knows in what land he shall die; surely Allah is Knowing, Aware. (31:34, Shakir's translation)

21. Al-Hafiz (the Preserver)

But if you turn back, then indeed I have delivered to you the message with which I have been sent to you, and my Lord will bring another people in your place, and you cannot do Him any harm; surely my Lord is the Preserver of all things. (11:57, Shakir's translation)

22. Al-Hakam (the Judge)

Shall I then seek a judge other than Allah? And He it is Who has revealed to you the Book (which is) made plain; and those whom We have given the Book know that it is revealed by your Lord with truth, therefore you should not be of the disputers. (6:114, Shakir's translation)

23. Al-Hakim (the Wise)

He is Allah, the Creator, the Shaper out of naught, the Fashioner. His are the most beautiful names. All that is in the heavens and the earth glorifieth Him, and He is the Mighty, the Wise. (59:24, Shakir's translation)

24. Al-Hakk (the True)

This is because Allah is the Truth, and that which they call upon besides Him is the falsehood, and that Allah is the High, the Great. (31:30, Shakir's translation)

25. Al-Halik (the Creator)

He is Allah the Creator, the Maker, the Fashioner; His are the most excellent names; whatever is in the heavens and the earth declares His glory; and He is the Mighty, the Wise. (59:24, Shakir's translation)

26. Al-Halim (the Forbearing)

(As for) those of you who turned back on the day when the two armies met, only the Shaitan sought to cause them to make a slip on account of some deeds they had done, and certainly Allah has pardoned them; surely Allah is Forgiving, Forbearing. (3:155, Shakir's translation)

27. Al-Hamid (the Praised)

And He it is Who sends down the rain after they have despaired, and He unfolds His mercy; and He is the Guardian, the Praised One. (42:28, Shakir's translation)

28. Al-Hayy (the Living)

He is the Living, there is no god but He, therefore call on Him, being sincere to Him in obedience; (all) praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. (40:65, Shakir's translation)

29. Al-Jabbar (the Supreme)

He is Allah, besides Whom there is no god; the King, the Holy, the Giver of peace, the Granter of security, Guardian over all, the Mighty, the Supreme, the Possessor of every greatness Glory be to Allah from what they set up (with Him). (59:23, Shakir's translation)

30. Al-Jami (the Gatherer)

Our Lord! surely Thou art the Gatherer of men on a day about which there is no doubt; surely Allah will not fail (His) promise. (3:9, Shakir's translation)

31. Al-Kabil (the Accepting repentance)

And He it is Who accepts repentance from His servants and pardons the evil deeds and He knows what you do. (42:25, Shakir's translation)

32. Al-Kabir (the Great)

The knower of the unseen and the seen, the Great, the Most High. (13:9, Shakir's translation)

33. Al-Kadir (the Powerful)

And among His signs is this, that you see the earth still, but when We send down on it the water, it stirs and swells: most surely He Who gives it life is the Giver of life to the dead; surely He has power over all things. (41:39, Pickthal's translation)

34. Al-Kahhar (the Supreme)

On the day when the earth shall be changed into a different earth, and the heavens (as well), and they shall come forth before Allah, the One, the Supreme. (14:48, Shakir's translation)

35. Al-Karib (the Near)

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, then surely I am very near; I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he calls on Me, so they should answer My call and believe in Me that they may walk in the right way. (2:186, Shakir's translation)

36. Al-Karim (the Bountiful, the Generous)

One with whom was knowledge of the Scripture said: I will bring it thee before thy gaze returneth unto thee. And when he saw it set in his presence, (Solomon) said: This is of the bounty of my Lord, that He may try me whether I give thanks or am ungrateful. Whosoever giveth thanks he only giveth thanks for (the good of) his own soul; and whosoever is ungrateful (is ungrateful only to his own soul's hurt). For lo! my Lord is Absolute in independence, Bountiful. (27:40, Pickthal's translation)

37. Al-Kawiyy (the Strong)

(Their way is) as the way of Pharaoh's folk and those before them; they disbelieved the revelations of Allah, and Allah took them in their sins. Lo! Allah is Strong, severe in punishment. (8:52, Pickthal's translation)

38. Al-Kayyum (the Self-existing)

Allah, (there is) no god but He, the Everliving, the Self-subsisting by Whom all things subsist. (47:51, Shakir's translation)

39. Al-Kuddus (the Holy)

Whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth declares the glory of Allah, the King, the Holy, the Mighty, the Wise. (62:1, Shakir's translation)

40. Al-Latif (the Benignant)

Allah is Benignant to His servants; He gives sustenance to whom He pleases, and He is the Strong, the Mighty. (42:19, Shakir's translation)

41. Al-Majid (the Glorious)

Lord of the Arsh, the Glorious. (85:15, Shakir's translation)

42. Al-Makir (the Planner)

And when those who disbelieved devised plans against you that they might confine you or slay you or drive you away; and they devised plans and Allah too had arranged a plan; and Allah is the best of planners. (8:30, Shakir's translation)

43. Al-Malik (the King)

The King of men. (114:2, Shakir's translation)

44. Malik-ul-mulk (the Master of the kingdom)

Say: O Allah, Master of the Kingdom! Thou givest the kingdom to whomsoever Thou pleasest and takest away the kingdom from whomsoever Thou pleasest, and Thou exaltest whom Thou pleasest and abasest whom Thou pleasest in Thine hand is the good; surety, Thou hast power over all things. (3:26, Shakir's translation)

45. Malik-yawmi-d-din (the Master of the Day of Judgment)

Master of the Day of Judgment. (1:4, Shakir's translation)

46. Al-Matin (the Strong)

Surely Allah is the Bestower of sustenance, the Lord of Power, the Strong. (51:58, Shakir's translation)

47. Al-Mawla (the Protector)

But Allah is your Protector, and He is the Best of Helpers. (3:150, Pickthal's translation)

48. Al-Muhaimin (the Guardian)

He is Allah, than Whom there is no other Allah, the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One, Peace, the Keeper of Faith, the Guardian, the Majestic, the Compeller, the Superb. Glorified be Allah from all that they ascribe as partner (unto Him). (59:23, Pickthal's translation)

49. Al-Muhit (the Surrounding)

How! Are they still in doubt about the meeting with their Lord? Lo! Is not He surrounding all things? (41:54, Pickthal's translation)

50. Al-Muktadir (the Powerful)

And set forth to them parable of the life of this world: like water which We send down from the cloud so the herbage of the earth becomes tangled on account of it, then it becomes dry broken into pieces which the winds scatter; and Allah is the holder of power over all things. (18:45, Shakir's translation)

51. Al-Mu'min (the Faithful)

He is Allah, than Whom there is no other Allah, the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One, Peace, the Keeper of Faith, the Guardian, the Majestic, the Compeller, the Superb. Glorified be Allah from all that they ascribe as partner (unto Him). (59:23, Pickthal's translation)

52. Al-Musawwir (the Fashioner)

He is Allah the Creator, the Maker, the Fashioner; His are the most excellent names; whatever is in the heavens and the earth declares His glory; and He is the Mighty, the Wise. (59:24, Shakir's translation)

53. Al-Mutakabbir (the Superb)

He is Allah, than Whom there is no other Allah, the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One, Peace, the Keeper of Faith, the Guardian, the Majestic, the Compeller, the Superb. Glorified be Allah from all that they ascribe as partner (unto Him). (59:23, Pickthal's translation)

54. An-Nur (the Light)

Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The similitude of His light is as a niche wherein is a lamp. The lamp is in a glass. The glass is as it were a shining star. (This lamp is) kindled from a blessed tree, an olive neither of the East nor of the West, whose oil would almost glow forth (of itself) though no fire touched it. Light upon light. Allah guideth unto His light whom He will. And Allah speaketh to mankind in allegories, for Allah is Knower of all things. (24:35, Pickthal's translation)

55. Rabb-ul-alamin (the Lord of the worlds)

All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds. (1:2, Shakir's translation)

56. Ar-Rahman-ur-Rahim (the Beneficent, the Merciful)

He is Allah besides Whom there is no god; the Knower of the unseen and the seen; He is the Beneficent, the Merciful. (59:22, Shakir's translation)

57. Ar-Rakib (the Watcher)

O people! be careful of (your duty to) your Lord, Who created you from a single being and created its mate of the same (kind) and spread from these two, many men and women; and be careful of (your duty to) Allah, by Whom you demand one of another (your rights), and (to) the ties of relationship; surely Allah ever watches over you. (4:1, Shakir's translation)

58. Ar-Ra'uf (the Affectionate)

And thus We have made you a medium (just) nation that you may be the bearers of witness to the people and (that) the Messenger may be a bearer of witness to you; and We did not make that which you would have to be the qiblah but that We might distinguish him who follows the Messenger from him who turns back upon his heels, and this was surely hard except for those whom Allah has guided aright; and Allah was not going to make your faith to be fruitless; most surely Allah is Affectionate, Merciful to the people. (2:143, Shakir's translation)

59. Ar-Razzak (the Bestower of sustenance)

Surely Allah is the Bestower of sustenance, the Lord of Power, the Strong. (51:58, Shakir's translation)

60. As-Salam (the Peace)

He is Allah, than Whom there is no other Allah, the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One, Peace, the Keeper of Faith, the Guardian, the Majestic, the Compeller, the Superb. Glorified be Allah from all that they ascribe as partner (unto Him). (59:23, Pickthal's translation)

61. As-Samad (the Eternal)

Allah, the Eternal, Absolute. (112:2, Yusufali's translation)

62. As-Sami' (the Hearing)

Surely (as for) those who dispute about the communications of Allah without any authority that has come to them, there is naught in their breasts but (a desire) to become great which they shall never attain to; Therefore seek refuge in Allah, surely He is the Hearing, the Seeing. (40:56, Shakir's translation)

63. Ash-Shakur (the Thankful)

And they will say: "Praise be to Allah, Who has removed from us (all) sorrow: for our Lord is indeed Oft-Forgiving Ready to appreciate (service). (35:34, Yusufali's translation)

64. Ash-Shahid (the Witness)

On the day when Allah will raise them all together and inform them of what they did. Allah hath kept account of it while they forgot it. And Allah is Witness over all things. (58:6, Pickthal's translation)

65. At-Tawwab (the Relenting)

And to the three also (did He turn in mercy) who were left behind, when the earth, vast as it is, was straitened for them, and their own souls were straitened for them till they bethought them that there is no refuge from Allah save toward Him. Then turned He unto them in mercy that they (too) might turn (repentant unto Him). Lo! Allah! He is the Relenting, the Merciful. (9:118, Pickthal's translation)

66. Al-Wadud (the Loving)

He is the First and the Last and the Ascendant (over all) and the Knower of hidden things, and He is Cognizant of all things. (85:14, Shakir's translation)

67. Al-Wahhab (the Giver)

Or is it that they have the treasures of the mercy of your Lord, the Mighty, the great Giver? (38:9, Shakir's translation)

68. Al-Wahid (the One)

Your Allah is One Allah; there is no Allah save Him, the Beneficent, the Merciful. (2:163, Pickthal's translation)

69. Al-Wakil (the Protector)

And they say: Obedience. But when they go out from your presence, a party of them decide by night upon doing otherwise than what you say; and Allah writes down what they decide by night, therefore turn aside from them and trust in Allah, and Allah is sufficient as a protector. (4:81, Shakir's translation)

70. Al-Wali (the Guardian)

Allah is the guardian of those who believe. He brings them out of the darkness into the light; and (as to) those who disbelieve, their guardians are Shaitans who take them out of the light into the darkness; they are the inmates of the fire, in it they shall abide. (2:257, Shakir's translation)

71. Al-Waris (the Inheritor)

And how many a town have We destroyed which exulted in its means of subsistence, so these are their abodes, they have not been dwelt in after them except a little, and We are the inheritors. (28:58, Shakir's translation)

The plural number here indicates Allah's majesty, not His plurality.


72. Al-Wasi' (the All-Embracing)

O ye who believe! Whoso of you becometh a renegade from his religion, (know that in his stead) Allah will bring a people whom He loveth and who love Him, humble toward believers, stern toward disbelievers, striving in the way of Allah, and fearing not the blame of any blamer. Such is the grace of Allah which He giveth unto whom He will. Allah is All-Embracing, All-Knowing. (5:54, Pickthal"s translation)

73. Az-Zahir (the Evident)

He is the First and the Last, the Evident and the Immanent: and He has full knowledge of all things. (57:3, Yusufali's translation)

74. Zu-l-jalali-wa-l-ikram (the Owner of glory and honor)

Blessed be the name of your Lord, the Lord of Glory and Honor! (55:78, Shakir's translation)

99 Names of Allah

According to hadiths in Sunan At-Tirmidi and Sunan Ibn Maja, the 99 names of Allah are:
1. Allah (1:1)
2. Ar-Rahman (the Gracious) (1:3)
3. Ar-Rahim (the Merciful) (1:3)
4. Al-Malik (the King) (20:114)
5. Al-Kuddus (the Holy) (59:23)
6. As-Salam (the Peace) (59:23)
7. Al-Mu'min (the Preserving) (59:23)
8. Al-Muhaimin (the Protecting) (59:23)
9. Al-'Aziz (the Almighty) (3:6)
10. Al-Jabbar (the Powerful) (59:23)
11. Al-Mutakabbir (the Surpassing) (59:23)
12. Al-Halik (the Creator) (59:24)
13. Al-Bari' (the Maker) (59:24)
14. Al-Musawwir (the Forming) (59:24)
15. Al-Gaffar (the Forgiving) (20:82)
16. Al-Kahhar (the Subduing) (13:16)
17. Al-Wahhab (the Giver) (3:8)
18. Ar-Razzak (the Providing) (51:58)
19. Al-Fattah (the Opening) (34:26)
20. Al-'Alim (the Knowing) (2:29)
21. Al-Kabid (the Narrowing) (2:245)
22. Al-Basit (the Widening) (2:245)
23. Al-Hafid (the Humiliating) (56:1-3)
24. Ar-Rafi' (the Elevating) (56:1-3)
25. Al-Mu'izz (the Strengthening) (3:26)
26. Al-Muzill (the Belittling) (3:26)
27. As-Sami' (the Hearing) (2:127)
28. Al-Basir (the Seeing) (3:15)
29. Al-Hakam (the Judge) (6:52)
30. Al-'Adl (the Just) (6:92)
31. Al-Latif (the Kind) (6:103)
32. Al-Habir (the Awarer) (6:18)
33. Al-Halim (the Meek) (2:225)
34. Al-'Azim (the Greatest) (2:105)
35. Al-Gafur (the Forgiver) (2:173)
36. Ash-Shakur (the Thankful) (35:30)
37. Al-'Aliyy (the High) (2:255)
38. Al-Kabir (the Great) (13:9)
39. Al-Hafiz (the Keeper) (11:57)
40. Al-Mukit (the Feeding) (4:85)
41. Al-Hasib (the Counting) (4:6)
42. Al-Jalil (the Majestic)
43. Al-Karim (the Generous) (23:116)
44. Ar-Rakib (the Observer) (4:1)
45. Al-Mujib (the Sympathetic) (11:61)
46. Al-Wasi' (the Unlimited) (2:115)
47. Al-Hakim (the Wise) (2:129)
48. Al-Wadud (the Loving) (11:90)
49. Al-Majid (the Glorious) (11:73)
50. Al-Ba'is (the Resurrecting) (22:7)
51. Ash-Shahid (the Witness) (4:79)
52. Al-Hakk (the True) (6:62)
53. Al-Wakil (the Defender) (3:173)
54. Al-Kawiyy (the Strong) (11:16)
55. Al-Matin (the Mighty) (51:58)
56. Al-Waliyy (the Protector) (2:107)
57. Al-Hamid (the Worthy to be praised) (14:1)
58. Al-Muhsi (the Taking into account) (58:6)
59. Al-Mubdi' (the Beginning) (10:4)
60. Al-Mu'id (the Returning) (10:4)
61. Al-Muhyi (the Reviving) (2:28)
62. Al-Mumit (the Deadening) (3:156)
63. Al-Hayy (the Living) (2:255)
64. Al-Kayyum (the eternally Existing) (2:255)
65. Al-Wajid (the Rich) (38:44)
66. Al-Majid (the Noble) (85:15)
67. Al-Wahid (the Unique) (2:163)
68. As-Samad (the Eternal) (112:1)
69. Al-Kadir (the Capable) (6:65)
70. Al-Muktadir (the All-Powerful) (18:45)
71. Al-Mukaddim (the Moving forward) (50:28)
72. Al-Mu'ahhir (the Moving back) (11:8)
73. Al-Awwal (the First) (57:3)
74. Al-Ahir (the Last) (57:3)
75. Az-Zahir (the Overcoming) (57:3)
76. Al-Batin (the Hidden) (57:3)
77. Al-Wali (the Ruler) (11:13)
78. Al-Muta'ali (the Most High) (13:9)
79. Al-Barr (the Righteous) (52:28)
80. At-Tawwab (the Accepting repentance) (2:37)
81. Al-Muntakim (the Avenging) (32:22)
82. Al-'Afuww (the Excusing) (4:99)
83. Ar-Ra'uf (the Compassionate) (2:143)
84. Malik-ul-mulk (the King of the kingdom) (3:26)
85. Zu-l-jalali-wa-l-ikram (the Possessor of majesty and generosity) (55:27)
86. Al-Muksit (the Fair) (3:18)
87. Al-Jami' (the Gathering) (3:9)
88. Al-Ganiyy (the Wealthy) (2:263)
89. Al-Mugni (the Enriching) (9:28)
90. Al-Mani' (the Defending)
91. Ad-Darr (the Harming)
92. An-Nafi' (the Beneficent)
93. An-Nur (the Light) (24:35)
94. Al-Hadi (the Leading by the right way) (25:31)
95. Al-Badi' (the Creative) (2:117)
96. Al-Baki (the Everlasting) (6:101)
97. Al-Waris (the Inheriting) (15:23)
98. Ar-Rashid (the Correct) (11:87)
99. As-Sabur (the Patient) (8:46)

In some other versions of this hadith, there are the following differences:
1) Al-Mukit (the Feeding) (number 40) is substituted with Al-Mugis (the Savior).
2) Ar-Rakib (the Observer) (number 44) is substituted with Al-Karib (the Near).
3) Al-Matin (the Mighty) (number 55) is substituted with Al-Mubin (the Clear).
4) Al-Wajid (the Unique) (number 67) is substituted with Al-Wahid-ul-Ahad (the Unique and One).

There is another version of the list of 99 Allah's names that does not include the name Allah:
1. Ar-Rahman (the Gracious)
2. Ar-Rahim (the Merciful)
3. Al-Malik (the King)
4. Al-Kuddus (the Holy)
5. As-Salam (the Peace)
6. Al-Mu'min (the Preserving)
7. Al-Muhaimin (the Protecting)
8. Al-'Aziz (the Almighty)
9. Al-Jabbar (the Powerful)
10. Al-Mutakabbir (the Surpassing)
11. Al-Halik (the Creator)
12. Al-Bari' (the Maker)
13. Al-Musawwir (the Forming)
14. Al-Gaffar (the Forgiving)
15. Al-Kahhar (the Subduing)
16. Al-Wahhab (the Giver)
17. Ar-Razzak (the Providing)
18. Al-Fattah (the Opening)
19. Al-'Alim (the Knowing)
20. Al-Kabid (the Narrowing)
21. Al-Basit (the Widening)
22. Al-Hafid (the Humiliating)
23. Ar-Rafi' (the Elevating)
24. Al-Mu'izz (the Strengthening)
25. Al-Muzill (the Belittling)
26. As-Sami' (the Hearing)
27. Al-Basir (the Seeing)
28. Al-Hakam (the Judge)
29. Al-'Adl (the Just)
30. Al-Latif (the Kind)
31. Al-Habir (the Awarer)
32. Al-Halim (the Meek)
33. Al-'Azim (the Greatest)
34. Al-Gafur (the Forgiver)
35. Ash-Shakur (the Thankful)
36. Al-'Aliyy (the High)
37. Al-Kabir (the Great)
38. Al-Hafiz (the Keeper)
39. Al-Mukit (the Feeding)
40. Al-Hasib (the Counting)
41. Al-Jalil (the Majestic)
42. Al-Karim (the Generous)
43. Ar-Rakib (the Observer)
44. Al-Mujib (the Sympathetic)
45. Al-Wasi' (the Unlimited)
46. Al-Hakim (the Wise)
47. Al-Wadud (the Loving)
48. Al-Majid (the Glorious)
49. Al-Ba'is (the Resurrecting)
50. Ash-Shahid (the Witness)
51. Al-Hakk (the True)
52. Al-Wakil (the Defender)
53. Al-Kawiyy (the Strong)
54. Al-Matin (the Mighty)
55. Al-Waliyy (the Protector)
56. Al-Hamid (the Worthy to be praised)
57. Al-Muhsi (the Taking into account)
58. Al-Mubdi' (the Beginning)
59. Al-Mu'id (the Returning)
60. Al-Muhyi (the Reviving)
61. Al-Mumit (the Deadening)
62. Al-Hayy (the Living)
63. Al-Kayyum (the eternally Existing)
64. Al-Wajid (the Rich)
65. Al-Majid (the Noble)
66. Al-Wahid (the Unique)
67. As-Samad (the Eternal)
68. Al-Kadir (the Capable)
69. Al-Muktadir (the All-Powerful)
70. Al-Mukaddim (the Moving forward)
71. Al-Mu'ahhir (the Moving back)
72. Al-Awwal (the First)
73. Al-Ahir (the Last)
74. Az-Zahir (the Overcoming)
75. Al-Batin (the Hidden)
76. Al-Wali (the Ruler)
77. Al-Muta'ali (the Most High)
78. Al-Barr (the Righteous)
79. At-Tawwab (the Accepting repentance)
80. Al-Muntakim (the Avenging)
81. Al-'Afuww (the Excusing)
82. Ar-Ra'uf (the Compassionate)
83. Malik-ul-mulk (the King of the kingdom)
84. Zu-l-jalali-wa-l-ikram (the Possessor of majesty and generosity)
85. Al-Muksit (the Fair)
86. Al-Jami' (the Gathering)
87. Al-Ganiyy (the Wealthy)
88. Al-Mugni (the Enriching)
89. Al-Mu'ti (the Granting)
90. Al-Mani' (the Defending)
91. Ad-Darr (the Harming)
92. An-Nafi' (the Beneficent)
93. An-Nur (the Light)
94. Al-Hadi (the Leading by the right way)
95. Al-Badi' (the Creative)
96. Al-Baki (the Everlasting)
97. Al-Waris (the Inheriting)
98. Ar-Rashid (the Correct)
99. As-Sabur (the Patient)

In this list, number 89 is Al-Mu'ti (the Granting). Thus, these 99 names plus the name Allah equal 100 names. Besides 99 Allah's names, there are other names. Many of 99 Allah's names are synonymous. Most of Allah's names are often translated and interpreted in different ways.

Attributes of Allah's Actions

These attributes are not necessary, but possible for Allah. They depend on His might and will. So, these attributes are called al-Jaizi (possible or optional attributes) or al-Fili (attributes of actions).

1. Creation (at-Tahlik)
Allah creates everything that exists.

She said: "O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man hath touched me?" He said: "Even so: Allah createth what He willeth: When He hath decreed a plan, He but saith to it, 'Be,' and it is! (3:47, Yusufali's translation)

Ashariyya theologians put the attribute of creation into this group. Maturidiyya theologians distinguish between at-Takwin (creation) which they put into as-Subuti (necessary or mandatory attributes) and at-Tahlik (creation) which they put into al-Jaizi (possible or optional attributes). I am not quite sure what is the difference between them.

2. Leading to the way of truth (al-Hidaya) and leading to the way of deception (ad-Dalala)
Allah leads some people to the way of truth and some people to the way of deception, depending on His will.

Is he, then, to whom the evil of his conduct is made alluring, so that he looks upon it as good, (equal to one who is rightly guided)? For Allah leaves to stray whom He wills, and guides whom He wills. So let not thy soul go out in (vainly) sighing after them: for Allah knows well all that they do! (35:8)

According to Sunni theologians, this means that after somebody makes a choice to take the way of truth, Allah created this way to him because only Allah can create anything. Likewise, after somebody decides to take the way of deception, Allah creates this way to him. Also, in Sunni theology, there is a principle that Allah's "negative" attributes or actions (such as punishment) are always mentioned together with His "positive" attributes or actions (such as reward).

3. Sending Prophets and Books
Allah sent Prophets and Books (Holy Scriptures) to people in order to show people the right way.

We sent thee not, but as a Mercy for all creatures. (21:107)

4. Resurrection (al-Ba's) and gathering (al-Hashr)
Allah will resurrect all the people at the Day of Judgment and then will gather them in the same place for judgment.

Again, on the Day of Judgment, will ye be raised up. (23:16)

The trumpet shall be sounded, when behold! from the sepulchres (men) will rush forth to their Lord! (36:51)

5. Showing mercy (at-Tan'im) and sending tortures and sufferings (at-Ta'zim)
Allah gives mercy and good to those whom He wants and sends tortures and sufferings to those whom He wants.

(Both) the Jews and the Christians say: "We are sons of Allah, and his beloved." Say: "Why then doth He punish you for your sins? Nay, ye are but men,- of the men he hath created: He forgiveth whom He pleaseth, and He punisheth whom He pleaseth: and to Allah belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between: and unto Him is the final goal (of all)" (5:18)

This means that Allah will forgive some people at the judgment and leave them unpunished for their sins, and He will punish some people for their sins. However, He will not forgive unbelief and polytheism. Also, He forgives people when they confess their sins. These attribute refer to those people who did not confess their sins.

This point may look as injustice for Christians. However, it actually indicates Allah's will and mercy that He will not punish some people who deserve punishment. The Bible says that people who are saved, are saved by God's grace and mercy.

4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy,
5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions — it is by grace you have been saved.
6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,
7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God —
9 not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:5-9)

Some people will not be saved. So, points 2 and 5 here have some similarity with the principle in Christianity that some people are saved by God's grace and mercy and some are not saved.

Classifications of God's Attributes

Christian theologians find God's attributes in the Bible. Muslims theologians find Allah's attributes in Qur'an and Sunnah.

There are three main classifications of God's attributes in Protestant theology:

1. Communicable and incommunicable attributes. The incommunicable attributes belong only to God (for example, eternity, immensity), while the communicable attributes to some extend may belong to people (for example, wisdom and justice).

2. Natural and moral attributes. The natural attributes describe God's nature (for example, self-existence and eternity), while the moral attributes describe His will (for example, justice and holiness).

3. Absolute and relative attributes. The absolute attributes characterize God Himself (for example, eternity and immensity), while the relative attributes characterize His relation to the creation (for example, omniscience).

According to Sunni theology, Allah's attributes are classified in the following way:
1. Al-Wujud - the attribute of Allah's essence (existence).
2. As-Salbi - the attributes that deny everything inappropriate to Allah. Al-Wujud and as-Salbi are sometimes put into the same group - as-Salbi or az-Zati (Sifats az-Zatiyya) (the essential attributes of Allah).
3. As-Subuti (Sifats as-Subutiyya) - the attributes that are necessary or mandatory for Allah.
4. Al-Jaizi - the attributes that are optional or possible for Allah. These attributes are also called al-Fi'li (Sifats al-Fi'liyya) - the attributes of Allah's actions.
5. Al-Habari - the informing attributes of Allah.

Actually, there are more similarities than differences between God's attributes and names in Christianity and Islam. Of course, I do not mean the doctrine of the Trinity that Islam completely rejects.

Informing Attributes of Allah

In Qur'an and Sunnah, there are some Allah's attributes that can lead to belief that Allah has a body if these attributes are understood literally. These attributes are called al-Habari (informing). Ashariyyah and Maturidiyya theologians understand them allegorically and interpret them. However, they admit that their interpretations may be not fully correct.

As the foundation for interpreting these attributes allegorically, they use surah 42, ayah 11:

(He is) the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among yourselves, and pairs among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing whatever like unto Him, and He is the One that hears and sees (all things). (Yusufali's translation)

Some of these attributes and their interpretations are:
1. Yad (hand) - Allah's mercy, might, authority:

Verily those who plight their fealty to thee do no less than plight their fealty to Allah: the Hand of Allah is over their hands: then any one who violates his oath, does so to the harm of his own soul, and any one who fulfils what he has covenanted with Allah,- Allah will soon grant him a great Reward. (48:10)

(Allah) said: "O Iblis! What prevents thee from prostrating thyself to one whom I have created with my hands? Art thou haughty? Or art thou one of the high (and mighty) ones?" (38:75)

2. Wajh (face) - Allah's essence, existence:

But will abide (for ever) the Face of thy Lord,- full of Majesty, Bounty and Honour. (55:27)

3. Ain (eye) - Allah's vision, observation, care:

Throw (the child) into the chest, and throw (the chest) into the river: the river will cast him up on the bank, and he will be taken up by one who is an enemy to Me and an enemy to him': But I cast (the garment of) love over thee from Me: and (this) in order that thou mayest be reared under Mine eye. (20:39)

4. Istiwa (establishing, ascension) - Allah's authority, majesty, lordship:

(Allah) Most Gracious is firmly established on the throne (of authority). (20:5)

5. Maji (coming) - descending of Allah's commandment or manifestation of signs or His might:

And thy Lord cometh, and His angels, rank upon rank. (89:22)

6. Ityan (manifestation, coming) - approach of punishment from Allah:

Will they wait until Allah comes to them in canopies of clouds, with angels (in His train) and the question is (thus) settled? but to Allah do all questions go back (for decision). (2:210)

In this matter, Wahhabi/Salafi do not agree with Ashariyya and Maturidiyya. Wahhabi/Salafi insist that these attributes should not be interpreted literally and believe that Allah really has a face, two hands, two eyes, really ascended on the throne, and so on. Other theologians reply that this means that Wahhabi/Salafi believe that Allah has a body.

In the Bible, there are even more verses where it is said about God's face, hands, other parts of the body, and even wings. Christian theologians agree that all these things are metaphors and should not be interpreted literally because God is spirit and does not have a body:

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24, New International Version)

Some examples from the Bible:

Many are asking, "Who can show us any good?" Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD. (Psalm 4:6)

Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?" declares the LORD. "This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word. (Isaiah 66:2)

He parted the heavens and came down; dark clouds were under his feet. (Psalm 18:10)

9 Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel went up
10 and saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was something like a pavement made of sapphire, clear as the sky itself.
11 But God did not raise his hand against these leaders of the Israelites; they saw God, and they ate and drank. (Exodus 24:9-11)

5 Then I said: "O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and obey his commands,
6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father's house, have committed against you." (Nehemiah 1:5-6)

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. (Psalm 91:4)