Etymology and Definition
AL-WĀSIʿ (الواسع), translated as “The Capacious” or “The All-Embracing”, is one of the ninety-nine names (Asma’ul Husna) attributed to Allah in Islamic theology. The Arabic root “و-س-ع” (w-s-ʿ), conveys meanings related to capacity, spaciousness, and generosity.
Qurʾānic Reference
This divine name appears in the Qurʾān, specifically in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:248):
“God is the Capacious one and knows.” (Qurʾān 2:248)
Background
The name AL-WĀSIʿ carries both a sense of physical and metaphorical expansiveness. This attribute emphasizes Allah’s boundless mercy, knowledge, and the infinite nature of His creation. It reassures believers of Allah’s unlimited capacity to understand, forgive, and provide.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In different Islamic cultures, the interpretation and emphasis on God’s spaciousness might vary slightly. It resonates deeply across all communities, offering comfort and a sense of divine omnipresence.
Similar Concepts:
- Christianity: Omnipresence of God – the belief that God is present everywhere at all times.
- Hinduism: Vishnu as Unlimited – Vishnu is often emphasized as boundless in power.
Synonyms and Related Terms
Synonyms:
- Al-Kabīr (الكبير): The Great
- Al-ʿAlīm (العليم): The All-Knowing
- Al-Raḥmān (الرحمن): The Most Merciful
Related Terms:
- Asma’ul Husna (أسماء الله الحسنى): The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of Allah
- Qurʾān (القرآن): The Holy Book of Islam
- Tawḥīd (توحيد): The concept of monotheism in Islam, emphasizing the oneness of Allah
Antonyms
While divine attributes typically do not have direct antonyms, the conceptual opposite in humans could be limitation or finiteness.
Exciting Facts
- Spiritual Exercise: Memorizing and contemplating the 99 names of Allah, including AL-WĀSIʿ, is a common and highly recommended spiritual practice among Muslims.
- Daily Invocation: Invoking the name AL-WĀSIʿ in daily prayers can provide solace and deepen one’s awareness of Allah’s limitless existence.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The spaciousness of Allah’s wisdom provides room for every soul, finding shelter under His broader approach to both wrath and mercy.” - Ibn ‘Arabi
“In recognizing AL-WĀSIʿ, the believer transcends the bounds of the temporal, understanding the eternity of divine knowledge and presence.” - Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
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Books:
- “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” by al-Ghazali
- “The Essence of Islam: God’s Spontaneous Generosity” by Martin Lings
- “Islamic Theology and Philosophy” by W. Montgomery Watt
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Articles:
- Islamic Theology Series by The Islamic Quarterly
- Encyclopedia of Islam: Exploring Asma’ul Husna
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Web Resources:
- Islamic educational platforms such as Al-Islam.org
- Lectures and Islamic courses at academic institutions like Al-Azhar University
Quizzes
Farewell with the thought-provoking message:
“Embracing AL-WĀSIʿ in our hearts invites us to recognize the limitless capacity of divine compassion, reminding us that the Creator’s wisdom and mercy envelop all facets of existence.”
Thank you for delving into the depths of AL-WĀSIʿ (الواسع) and its boundless implications within Islamic belief. May your journey of knowledge continue to expand infinitely, much like Allah’s capacious nature.
Omar Ibn Hasan | October 4, 2023
