Comprehensive Definition:§
AL-AʿLA (الاعلى): Translating to “The Most High,” this term is part of the 99 names of Allah (Asma’ Allah al-Husna) in Islam, emphasizing the unparalleled exaltation and supreme sovereignty of God. The term is prominently featured as the title of the 87th chapter (Surah Al-Aʿla) of the Qur’an, which begins with a command to “Glorify the name of your Lord, the Most High.”
Etymology:§
Root: The Arabic root of Al-Aʿla is “ʿ-ʟ-و,” which denotes height, exaltation, and elevation. The structure of the word, with the prefix “Al-” meaning “The,” signifies its function as one of the divine names highlighting Allah’s attribute of utmost elevated status.
Background:§
Qur’anic Usage: Surah Al-Aʿla consists of 19 verses and opens with “Glorify the name of your Lord, the Most High.” The signification goes beyond mere praise; it calls for a deep internalization of God’s supreme and untouchable nature.
Theological Context: Recognizing God as Al-Aʿla is intrinsic to understanding monotheism in Islam, reinforcing the belief that no entity can compare to God’s grandeur and lofty status.
Cultural Differences and Similarities:§
Islamic Culture: Al-Aʿla embodies reverence found in daily prayers and religious rituals; phrases like “Subhana Rabbiya Al-Aʿla” (Glory to my Lord, the Most High) are recited during sujood (prostration).
Comparative Religion: Similar to the Judaic concept of “El Elyon” (God Most High) and the Christian recognition of God’s supreme sovereignty, portraying a shared reverence for a supreme divine entity.
Synonyms:§
- Elative: Greatest, Loftiest, Supreme.
- Divine Names: Al-Muta’ali (The Self-Exalted), Al-Kabeer (The Most Great).
Antonyms:§
- Navisome Representation: None (since antonyms imply comparison, and there is no comparable but opposite for the Most High).
Related Terms with Definitions:§
- Tawhid: The oneness and uniqueness of Allah.
- Tasbih: Act of glorifying God, often through repeating phrases like “SubhanAllah” (Glory be to God).
Exciting Facts:§
- All-in-One: The 87th chapter, Al-Aʿla, was among the earliest revelations Prophet Muhammad received and remains one of the most recited in prayers.
- Remembrance Practice: Diverse Islamic traditions encourage the habitual invocation of Al-Aʿla for spiritual upliftment and attaining closeness to God.
Quotations from Notable Writers:§
- Rumi: “The names of the Beloved are a fountain of light, and Al-Aʿla is the ever-glowing torch in the hearts of those who seek.”
- Muhammad Iqbal: “To recognize Al-Aʿla is to see beyond the veils of the world, to know the Most High is to truly understand the depth of divine love.”
References and Suggested Literature:§
- “99 Names of Allah: Illuminate with Divine Light” by Jamal Rahman
- “In the Presence of the Almighty: Understanding the Names of Allah” by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
- “Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Abridged): Commentary on Surah Al-Aʿla.
Quizzes:§
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May these explorations of divine names deepen your understanding, enrich your spirit, and guide your paths under the light of wisdom. Remember, each name is a step closer to the Most High.
Ibrahim Hassan October 10, 2023