Comprehensive Definition
Al-Ṣamad (الصمد): “The Eternal” or “The Absolute.” This is one of the ninety-nine Asma’ul Husna (Beautiful Names of Allah) in Islam, reflecting an attribute that underscores God’s perpetual existence and self-sufficiency. The term suggests utter reliance, indicating beings subsist and persist through God’s inherent, unparalleled nature.
Etymology
Etymology: The word Ṣamad (صمد) is derived from the Arabic root “ṣ-m-d” which implies steadfastness, perpetuity, and self-existence devoid of origin or end. Classic Islamic scholars illustrate that a lord or master is denoted because others turn to him in times of crisis or need.
Background
In the Qurʾān, Al-Ṣamad is mentioned explicitly in Sūrah Al-Ikhlas (112:2)—“Allah, the Eternal, Absolute.” Interpretations suggest that this surah encapsulates the essence of Tawheed (oneness of God), emphasizing an eternal nature untethered by temporal constraints or dependency. Historically, throughout Islamic civilization, scholars and Sufi mystics have ruminated on this attribute, finding in it solace and a central tenet for comprehending the divine.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Cultural Differences: While Al-Ṣamad is a uniquely Islamic attribute, resonations of an eternal god figure are ubiquitous in Abrahamic religions. Christianity speaks of God as eternal and self-existent, and in Judaism, similar depictions find articulation.
Similarities: Across Islamic cultures—ranging from Middle Eastern to Southeast Asian and African societies—Al-Ṣamad nurtures a ubiquitous spiritual reliance, hope, and continuity in worship practices, sustaining the universality of God across varied communities.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
- Synonyms: The Perseverant, The Everlasting, The Immutable.
- Antonyms: The Perishable, The Temporary, The Mutable.
- Related Terms:
- Tawheed: The oneness of God.
- Al-Baqi: “The Everlasting” another Name of Allah.
- Al-Wahid: “The One,” emphasizing singularity.
- Al-Ahad: “The Only” indicating unparalleled uniqueness.
Exciting Facts
- Spiritual Invocations: The attribute Al-Ṣamad is frequently invoked in Islamic prayers and supplications seeking divine support and persistency in faith.
- Sufism: In Sufi traditions, Al-Ṣamad is meditated upon to attain a closer mystical proximity to God’s enduring presence.
- Counseling: This attribute serves as counseling wisdom during hardships, symbolizing God’s ultimate control and reliability.
Quotations
Imam Al-Ghazali states in his book “Al-Maqsad Al-Asna**: “Reflect upon Al-Ṣamad – the One to whom the hearts seek refuge from fears and where reliance finds steadfast peace, mirroring His eternal embody.”
Jalal ad-Din Rumi, the celebrated poet and Sufi mystic, muses: “Turn to Al-Ṣamad in moments fleeting and temporally bounded, and find in divine eternity, thine spirit’s unbroken sanctuary.”
Literature and Further Studies
- Books:
- “The Ninety-nine Beautiful Names of God” by G.A. Helminski and Camille Helminski
- “Asma ul Husna – The 99 Beautiful Names of Allah” by Ahmad Hulusi
- Scholarly Articles:
- “Exploring the Divine Names” in the Journal of Islamic Studies.
- “Concept of Eternity in Islamic Theology” by Dr. Saeed Ramadan.
- Supplementary Reading:
- “Paths to the Divine: Conception of God in World Religions” edited by P. Koslowski.
- “The Seventy-Seven Branches of Faith” by Imam Al-Bayhaqi.
Quizzes
Reflect, study, and imbibe the indefatigable essence invoked by Al-Ṣamad. May this attribute foster resilience, hope, and eternal faith within you. 📖✨
Immerse yourself in the vast ocean of knowledge, chronicled by thinkers past and present.
Best regards,
Fatima Al-Jazari
2023-10-03
“In the light of God’s permanence, find the solace of your fleeting soul.”
