Comprehensive Definition
AẒ-ẒĀRR (الضار): One of the ninety-nine attributes of Allah, meaning “The Distresser.” The term is derived from the Arabic root Ḍ-R-R (ض ر ر), which essentially means to harm, damage or distress. Within the theological framework of Islam, this attribute underscores that any form of harm or distress experienced in the universe occurs only by the permission and Will of Allah.
Etymology
The word AẒ-ẒĀRR (الضار) stems from the triliteral root Ḍ-R-R (ض ر ر), which can mean to harm, to inconvenience or to distress. It is a jussive form used to denote the active quality of causing harm or distress, highlighting that Allah alone has power over every aspect of existence, including that which is distressing to human beings.
Background and Cultural Context
The attribute AẒ-ẒĀRR is remarkable because it emphasizes a lesser-discussed aspect of the Divine reality. In Islamic doctrine, both good and evil are seen as occurring within the Will of Allah, painting a comprehensive picture of God’s sovereignty over all facets of existence. This attribute is coupled often with An-Nafi’a, the Benefactor, to underline that Allah possesses absolute control over both benefit and harm, well-being and distress.
In comparison to other religious traditions, which might have dualistic interpretations of good and evil as independent entities, Islamic theology firmly posits that all actions, including harmful ones, originate and are controlled by Allah, albeit evil actions are not directly attributed to Him but allowed by His divine wisdom.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Al-Mudarr: Another name signifying the act of causing harm.
- Al-Qahir: The Dominant, indicating overpowering control.
Antonyms:
- An-Nafi: The Creator of Good, The Benefactor.
- Ar-Rahman: The Most Merciful.
- Ar-Rahim: The Most Compassionate.
Related Terms
An-Nafi: The benefactor who benefits and bestows favor, contrasted with AẒ-ẒĀRR. Al-Māni’: The Withholder who prevents harm, providing a counter-balance to AẒ-ẒĀRR. Qadar: The concept of predestination, implicating that all occurrences, including suffering and distress, are within the divine plan.
Exciting Facts
- The 99 Names of Allah: AẒ-ẒĀRR is part of a comprehensive list known as the Asma ul-Husna (Most Beautiful Names), each representing a unique attribute of God.
- Balancing Attributes: The juxtaposition of AẒ-ẒĀRR with An-Nafi’i symbolizes the balance in divine will—perceived suffering and apparent good, both are means through which wisdom unfolds.
- Conditional Harm: According to a Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), “Harm nor benefit can come to us without the will of Allah,” highlighting AẒ-ẒĀRR as an acknowledgment of Divine omnipotence.
Notable Quotations
- Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya: “The harm which befalls us is a trial distinctive to each person’s path, yet no harm can affect a servant except by Allah’s permission.”
- Sheikh Ibn Al-Arabi: “Understanding Allah as AẒ-ẒĀRR, the Distresser, invites us to find trust in His comprehensive wisdom even in our times of deepest distress.”
Suggested Literature & Further Studies
- Asma ul-Husna: The Most Beautiful Names of Allah by Yasir Qadhi.
- The 99 Names of Allah by Jihad Hashim Brown.
- Divine Names: The 99 Healing Names of the One Love by Rosina Fawzia Al-Rawi.
