Comprehensive Definition:§
AL-BĀSIT̤ (الباسط), one of the ninety-nine Beautiful Names (Asma ul Husna), signifies “The Expander” or “The One Who Stretches Out.” Within Islamic theology, AL-BĀSIT̤ points to God’s ability to expand sustenance, life, mercy, and provision, and to increase happiness or knowledge as He wills.
Etymology:§
- Arabic Root: AL-BĀSIT̤ (الباسط) comes from the root ب س ط (B-S-T), which means to spread, extend, or stretch.
- Linguistic Evolution: The term signifies the act of expanding, reflecting how Allah dispenses His provisions and blessings.
Background and Significance:§
- Mentioned in the Qur’an, Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:15), AL-BĀSIT̤ portrays the characteristic of Allah as the ultimate source of expansion. This includes the dispensation of wealth, knowledge, and personal growth.
- It complements other Divine Names associated with balance and provision, such as Al-Qābiḍ (الْقَابِضُ), “The Constrictor,” who withholds as necessary.
Cultural Differences and Similarities:§
- Cultural Adaptation: In various Islamic cultures, AL-BĀSIT̤ is invoked in prayers for the increase of provisions, spiritual growth, and relief from constriction.
- Intercultural Reflection: Expansion as a divine quality is not restricted to Islam. Concepts of divine provision and abundance can be compared to similar attributes in other Abrahamic faiths.
Synonyms and Antonyms:§
- Synonyms: The Expander, The Provider, The Giver of Abundance.
- Antonyms: Al-Qābiḍ (الْقَابِضُ) - The Constrictor.
Related Terms:§
- Ar-Razzaq (الرَّزَّاقُ): Another name of Allah which means “The Provider.”
- Al-Wahhab (الوهاب): Signifying “The Bestower.”
Exciting Facts:§
- The concept of AL-BĀSIT̤ is often used in Islamic jurisprudence to argue for the ethical distribution of wealth and alleviation of poverty.
- Invoking AL-BĀSIT̤ is common in supplications (duas) for increased wealth and inferentially called upon in times of financial hardship.
Quotations from Notable Writers:§
- Ibn Kathir, a renowned Islamic scholar, writes: “He who believes in AL-BĀSIT̤ understands that any expansion in their sustenance, knowledge, or happiness is a result of Allah’s will.”
References and Further Reading:§
- Nasir al-Din al-Mawardi’s “The Names and Attributes of Allah”
- “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” by Ghazzi al-Khauf
- Tafsir Ibn Kathir - Exegesis of Qur’an, Surah Ar-Ra’d.
Suggested Literature:§
- “The Sublime Names of the Creator” by Imam Ali Al-Nawawi
- “Tafseer of Divine Names” by Sa’id Bakhtawar
- “Asma ul Husna: Understanding the Attributes of Allah” by Dr. Tariq Ramadan
- “Engaging with the Divine: Practical Reflections on the Beautiful Names” by Sughra Ansari
May these reflections inspire your inner journey towards understanding the vastness of the Divine attributes. Immerse in the sacred texts, and let knowledge expand your heart!
Farewell Thought: “In the tenacity of Allah’s expansion do we find solace, for every constriction, there lies a Divine promise of abundant relief.”
Written by: Zaynab Al-Hussein
