AL-MUʿĪD (المعيد): The Restorer
Definition
AL-MUʿĪD (المعيد) refers to one of the ninety-nine beautiful names (Asma’ul Husna) of Allah in Islam. It translates to “The Restorer” or “The One Who Recreates” in English, signifying God’s ability to restore life and existence. Although the term itself does not directly appear in the Qur’an, the concept is repeatedly mentioned.
Etymology
The Arabic root for AL-MUʿĪD is ‘ʿ-A-D (ع-ي-د), which involves concepts of returning, restoring, or bringing back.
Background
In Islamic theology, the name AL-MUʿĪD is used to describe Allah’s attribute of bringing individuals back to life after death. This concept is deeply tied to the Islamic understanding of resurrection and life after death, as articulated in various verses of the Qur’an, such as Surah Al-Buruj (85:13):
“Indeed, it is He who originates [creation] and repeats.”
Cultural Significance
The belief in AL-MUʿĪD shapes various Islamic rituals, including funeral rites and prayers for the deceased. It provides solace and faith to believers that restoration and resurrection lay in the divine plan. This name also enhances a Muslim’s understanding of life as transient and prepares one for the eternal life to come.
Synonyms
- Al-Ba’ith (The Resurrector)
- Al-Muhyi (The Giver of Life)
Antonyms
- Al-Mumit (The Creator of Death)
Related Terms
- Qiyāmah (قيامة) - Day of Resurrection: A central concept in Islamic eschatology referring to the final judgment and the resurrection of the dead.
- Akhirah (آخرة) - Hereafter: The life after death, encompassing heaven, hell, and the events between.
- Barzakh (برزخ) - Barrier: The realm or state between death and resurrection where souls await the Day of Judgment.
Exciting Facts
- The concept of AL-MUʿĪD emphasizes that resurrection is not just a future event, but a continuous reflection in creation and the cyclical patterns in nature.
- The invocation of AL-MUʿĪD is particularly potent in Dua’a (supplications) when seeking restoration and healing in life.
Quotations
Reflecting on the attribute of AL-MUʿĪD, noted Sufi poet Rumi wrote: “Even after all this time, the Sun never says to the Earth, ‘You owe Me.’ Look what happens with a love like that. It lights the whole sky.”
Although indirect, it signifies restoration without expectation, a divine attribute mirrored in AL-MUʿĪD.
References
- Al-Ghazali, “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God”
- Suyuti, “Tafsir al-Jalalayn”
Suggested Literature
To further delve into the concepts surrounding “The Restorer,” consider these classical and contemporary works:
- “The Ninety-Nine Names of God” by Daniel Thomas Dyer
- “The Children of Light Quranic Studies & Anniversaries Almanac” by Aisha Utz
- “Resurrection and the Afterlife in Islam” by Louis Ginzberg
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
“In the cycle of returning, there is a divine promise of hope and resurrection. Embrace the name AL-MUʿĪD and find solace in the never-ending love and renewal bestowed upon all of creation.” - Amina Al-Fahad
