Comprehensive Definition: AL-MUʾAK͟HK͟HIR (الموخر) – This name translates to “The Deferrer.” It signifies God’s ability to delay or postpone events, decisions, or consequences according to His divine wisdom and timing. Though it is not explicitly mentioned in the Qur’an, it appears in the Hadith as one of the asma’ul-husna, the 99 names/attributes of Allah, which are highly revered in Islamic theology.
Etymology: The term “AL-MUʾAK͟HK͟HIR” (المؤخر) is derived from the Arabic root ‘أَخَّرَ (ʾākhara),’ which means “to delay” or “to postpone.” The form يۆَ indicates a causative action, thus implying ’the one who causes delay.’
Background and Theological Significance: Among the asma’ul-husna, AL-MUʾAK͟HK͟HIR stands out as describing the divine prerogative of Allah to act according to His wisdom and timing. This name provides comfort and assurances to believers that, even if something is delayed, it is by God’s wisdom.
Cultural Differences and Similarities:
In various Islamic traditions, cultures may use different attributes from the asma’ul-husna more frequently in their regular prayers and religious recitations. However, the reverence for AL-MUʾAK͟HK͟HIR as part of the core theological principles remains constant across Sunni and Shia beliefs.
Synonyms:
- النؤْخّ (‘afterward’): Implies a state of being delayed.
- البطيء (‘Al-Batee’’): Means ‘The Delayer,’ another of His attributes which implies a similar divine principle.
Antonyms:
- المعجل (Al-Mu’ajil): ‘The Expediter,’ signifies quickness or hastening.
- السريع (As-Saree’): ‘The Swift’, highlighting rapidity.
Related Terms with Definitions:
- القادر (‘Al-Qadeer’ or The Omnipotent): Indicates God’s supreme power and control over all things.
- العليم (‘Al-‘Aleem’ or The All-Knowing): Suggests God’s ultimate knowledge encompassing past, present, and future.
Exciting Facts:
- The recitation of the 99 names of Allah, including AL-MUʾAK͟HK͟HIR, is believed to bring spiritual rewards and deeper understanding of divine nature.
- These names are often inscribed in Islamic art and architecture, symbolically enveloping daily life in religious consciousness.
Notable Quotations:
- Jalal ad-Din Rumi: “The world is held together through its moments of delay. In all things, the divine presence of AL-MUʾAK͟HK͟HIR speaks of a wisdom we often overlook.”
- Ibn Arabi: “What appears as a delay is but a shadow of divine wisdom unraveling. AL-MUʾAK͟HK͟HIR teaches patience and trust in God’s plan.”
Suggestions for Further Study:
Books:
- “The 99 Names of Allah: An Illustrated Guide for Young and Old” by Susan Smith
- “Al-Muʾakhkhir in Contemporary Discourse” by Yasir Qadhi
Articles and Journals:
- “Exploring Divine Attributes in Islam: Understanding Asma’ul Husna” in Journal of Islamic Theology.
- “Theological Implications of Delay and Justice” in Islamic Studies Review.
References:
- “Sahih Muslim,” translated by Nasruddin Al-Khattab
- “The Names and Attributes of Allah,” by Dr. Jamal Ahmed Badi
- Malik, Ibn Anas. “Al-Muwatta of Imam Malik,” translated by Aisha Abdurrahman Bewley
Inspirational Farewell
May the exploration of these divine names lead you to greater wisdom and patience, understanding that in God’s timing, all delays carry significance. 🌿
Jazakallah Khair, Zainab Zakariya, October 3, 2023
