Definition
AL-QAWĪ (القوى)
AL-QAWĪ (القوى) means “The Strong” and is one of the 99 Names of Allah in Islam. The term reflects God’s omnipotence and ability to execute His Will independent of all else.
Etymology
Arabic Roots: The term الحوية (Qawī) derives from the root قوى (Q-W-Y), which signifies strength, power, and ability.
Background
Qurʾānic Reference: It is mentioned in the Qurʾān, Sūrah Hūd (11:69) - “Thy Lord is the Strong, the Mighty.” This indicates that His strength is immeasurable, perpetual, and serves the basis for all creation and control within the universe.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islamic View: In Islamic theology, AL-QAWĪ is an affirmation of God’s unassailable power and superiority over all created beings.
Christianity: Analogous to concepts like God Almighty in Christianity, which celebrates God’s unlimited power demonstrated in creation and sustenance.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Al-Muqtadir (The Omnipotent)
- Al-Aziz (The Mighty)
Antonyms:
- Adh-Dha’if (The Weak; though this is not an attribute of God but opposite in terms of attributes inferable about beings other than God)
Related Terms
Al-Muqtadir (المقتدر): Another attribute of Allah signifying omnipotence.
Al-Aziz (العزيز): Meaning ‘The Mighty’, another of Allah’s 99 names signifying superior strength.
As-Samad (الصمد): Reflects Allah as The Eternal and Absolute, independent in His strength and fullness of power.
Exciting Facts
- Divine Strength: Unlike any physical manifestation of strength in humans, AL-QAWĪ portrays a metaphysical and all-encompassing divine power.
- Daily Reference: Regularly invoked in Islamic prayers for strength and resilience.
- Theologically Rich: Encourages believers to perceive strength, not merely as physical prowess but also moral, spiritual, and ethical steadfastness.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“For in the name AL-QAWĪ, we recognize the unfathomable force that creates, sustains and renews the universe.” – Raheem Suleiman
Literature and Sources for Further Study
- “The 99 Names of Allah: A Spiritual Journey” by Mukhtar Ali
- “Understanding the Attributes of God in Islam” by Karen Armstrong
- “Divine Grace and Human Struggle in Islam” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Farewell Thought
“Strength does not reside in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. Embrace the divine strength within as you seek deeper connection with the Creator, AL-QAWĪ.”
