🔍 Understanding ALLAH: The Ultimate 🕌 Divine Entity in Islam

Allah - Comprehensive Definition and Meaning 🌟

Definition

Allah (الله‎) is the term used in Islam for the one and only God. Muslims, and adherents of other Abrahamic faiths, such as Christians and Jews, recognize Allah as the creator, sustainer, judge, and ruler of the universe.

Etymology

The word “Allah” is derived from the Arabic phrase “al-ilāh”, meaning “The God.” This combines the definite article “al-” (the) with “ilah” (god, deity).

Historical Facts and Dates

1. 616 CE - The Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which explicitly defines and describes Allah.
2. 622 CE - Migration to Medina, marking deepened service and submission to Allah.
3. 630 CE - Conquest of Mecca, the purification of the Kaaba, making it the sole sanctuary for the worship of Allah.

Background

In pre-Islamic Arabia, Allah was considered the “high god” among pagan deities but was not idolized, contrasting local customs. Muhammad’s arrival solidified the concept of monotheism by expanding devotion exclusively to Allah and denouncing the worship of other deities (shirk).

Cultural Context

• General Muslim Majority Countries: The term “Allah” has a central cultural and religious connotation regulating aspects of moral life and jurisprudence.
• Christians in the Arab World: Often use “Allah” in daily prayers and liturgies.
• Jewish Arabic-speaking groups: Also refer to God as Allah.

Synonyms

• God
• Almighty
• The Creator

Antonyms

• Shirk (associationism)
• Polytheism

Related Terms with Definitions

• Shirk: Associating partners with Allah.
• Tawhid: The oneness and uniqueness of Allah.
• Ar-Rahman: “The Merciful” - an attribute of Allah.
• Ar-Rahim: “The Compassionate” - another attribute.

Exciting Facts 🌟

1. 99 Names of Allah: Known as “Asma’ul-Husna,” each highlighting unique attributes.
2. Kaaba: Originally housed multiple idols; now, only Allah is revered here.
3. Qur’anic Revelation: The Quran’s linguistic style and literary complexity are considered miracles attributed to Allah’s speech.

Quotations

• “Say: ‘He is Allah, the One! Allah, the Eternal, Absolute; He begets not, nor is He begotten; And there is none like unto Him.’” - Qur’an 112:1-4
• “Everything will be annihilated except His Face.” - Qur’an 28:88

Suggest Literature and References for Further Studies

1. “Introduction to Islamic Theology: An Anthology of Underlying Methods & Literature” - Authored by Imam Yassir Qadri (Publication date: 2008).
2. “Tafsir Al-Jalalayn” - A classical Qur’anic commentary by Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti.
3. “Islamic Theology and Philosophy” - Series by Oliver Leaman.

Thought-Provoking Farewell

As we dissect and explore the divine attributes of Allah, let each delve into His manifold qualities inspire us to practice mercy, compassion, and justice in our lives.