AL-MUTAʿĀLĪ (المتعالى) - “The Exalted”
Definition
The name “AL-MUTAʿĀLĪ” is derived from Arabic and means “The Exalted” or “The Most High.” It is one of the ninety-nine names (Asmaʾul-Husna) by which Muslims refer to Allah, the one and only God in Islam.
Etymology
The term “AL-MUTAʿĀLĪ” comes from the root word “ʿULW” (عَلَوَ), which implies height, loftiness, or exaltation. In Arabic, the pattern “مُتَعَالِي” (MUṬĀʿĀLI) indicates an intensively exalted or highly esteemed being.
Background and Significance
AL-MUTAʿĀLĪ signifies God’s attribute of being exalted far above all creation. This name emphasizes the transcendence of Allah—a core belief encapsulating His absolute sovereignty, supremacy, and freedom from all human limitations. It recalls Allah’s incomparability, reminding believers of His supreme authority over all creatures.
Qurʾānic Reference
AL-MUTAʿĀLĪ is mentioned in the Qurʾān in Surah Ar-Raʿd (13:10-12):
“And whether you conceal your words or manifest them, He knows what is in the hearts. Will He not know, Who created? And He is the Most Delicate, The All-Knowing. It is He Who made the earth manageable for you—so traverse you through its broad ways—but it is unto Him you shall be resurrected.”
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islamic cultures cherish the names of Allah, especially those mentioned in Qurʾānic scripture. Various Islamic traditions give importance to these names, which are often recited in prayer, written in manuscripts, and depicted in calligraphy.
Synonyms: The Lofty One, The Most High
Antonyms: The Low, The Humble (when referring to human characteristics)
Related Terms:
- AL-ʿALĪ (العلي): Another name of Allah meaning “The Most High.”
- Tawhid: The oneness and uniqueness of Allah.
- Ibadah: Acts of worship, which underscore the submissive relation to the exalted Creator.
Exciting Facts
- Specific attributes of Allah, including AL-MUTAʿĀLĪ, are considered powerful spiritual tools, inspiring reverence and worship among Muslims.
- The reverence of Allah’s exalted status is reflected in the various powerful poetic and musical forms across different Islamic cultures, such as “Nasheed” and “Qasida.”
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Ali Ibn Abi Talib: “The best way to summon God is through His Greatest Name; mention Him as ‘The Exalted’ and surrender to His might.”
- Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah: “Understanding the exalted nature of Allah invites humility into the soul and strengthens one’s faith in divine providence.”
References for Further Study
- Al-Ghazali, “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God.”
- Annemarie Schimmel, “Mystical Dimensions of Islam.”
- Sayyed Hossein Nasr, “Ideals and Realities of Islam.”
Suggested Literature:
- “The Divine Names” by Al-Ghazali
- “A Theological Introduction to the Qurʾān” by Brannon M. Wheeler
“In learning to acknowledge the grandeur of AL-MUTAʿĀLĪ, may your heart continually elevate and align with the purest intimations of divinity.”
- Fatimah Hassan, October 4, 2023
