Al-Bāʿis̤ is one of the exalted names of Allah, each representing a unique attribute of the Divine. Let’s delve into the depth of this powerful name and understand its theological, cultural, and historical significance.
🕌 Comprehensive Definition
Al-Bāʿis̤ (الباعث) translates to “The Awakener” or “He who awakes.” This divine name signifies Allah’s power to raise the dead from their graves to stand for judgment on the Day of Resurrection. It underscores the belief in the afterlife, a fundamental tenet of Islamic faith.
✍️ Etymology
The term “Al-Bāʿis̤” is derived from the root word ب-ع-ث, which in Arabic translates to “sending forth,” “awakening,” or “resurrecting.” This root word appears numerous times in the Qur’an, generally in contexts relating to the resurrection and awakening of the dead.
🕰️ Background
Belief in resurrection and the Day of Judgment is integral to Islam. Al-Bāʿis̤ as a divine attribute serves to remind the faithful of the inevitability of the afterlife, where every soul will awaken to face the consequences of their earthly actions.
🌏 Cultural Differences and Similarities
The concept of a divine awakener is not unique to Islam. In Christianity, the resurrection is central to beliefs about Jesus Christ’s rising from the dead and the eventual resurrection of all souls. In Hinduism, the cycle of death and rebirth (Samsara) also underscores a continual process of awakening to a new spiritual state.
📝 Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Al-Muhyi (The Giver of Life)
- Al-Qayyūm (The Self-Sustainer)
- Al-Mubdi (The Originator)
Antonyms:
- Al-Mumit (The Taker of Life)
- Al-Kabid (The Restrainer)
🔗 Related Terms
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Baʿatha (بعث): To send, to resurrect. Definition: Refers to the act of resurrection or sending forth.
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Qiyāmah (قيامة): The Day of Resurrection. Definition: The day when all beings will be resurrected for judgment before Allah.
🎓 Exciting Facts
- The 99 names of Allah, of which Al-Bāʿis̤ is one, represent different aspects of His essence and attributes, helping Muslims understand and foster a closer relationship with the Divine.
- The name Al-Bāʿis̤ appears in various forms within the Qur’an, emphasizing its prominence within Islamic eschatology.
🖋️ Quotations
“It is He who gives life and causes death; and when He decrees a matter, He but says to it, ‘Be,’ and it is.” — Qur’an 40:68
“The Day all faces will be humbled for the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence. And he who carries injustice will despair.” — Qur’an 20:111
📚 Suggested Literature for Further Studies
- “The Book of Ascension to the Essentials of the Knowledge of Allah’s Most Beautiful Names” by Imam al-Ghazali
- “The Commentary of Al-Ghazali on The Ninety-nine Beautiful Names of God” translated by David B. Burrell and Nazih Daher
- “Resurrection and the Afterlife: Confucianism, Western Christianity, and Islam” by Jon D. Levenson
- “The Qur’an and Its Interpretation” by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
🔄 Quizzes to Test Your Knowledge
Thank you for delving into the profound meaning of Al-Bāʿis̤. As you continue on your journey of discovery, remember that understanding divine attributes can foster a deeper connection with the Creator and enrich your spiritual path.
Fatima El-Amin
October 8, 2023
“Knowledge is not what is memorized; knowledge is what benefits.” – Imam Shafiʻi
