Definition
Ar-Raḥīm (الرحيم) is one of the 99 beautiful names or attributes of Allah recognized in Islamic theology. It translates to “The Compassionate,” indicating Allah’s immense and encompassing compassion toward His creations. The term commonly appears alongside ar-Raḥmān, which communicates “The Merciful.”
Etymology
From the Arabic root ‘ر-ح-م’ (r-ḥ-m), the term ‘Raḥīm’ derives, encapsulating the qualities of gentleness, mercy, and compassion. The frequent co-occurrence of ‘ar-Raḥmān’ and ‘ar-Raḥīm’ in religious texts underscores their synthesized implication of Allah’s merciful nature.
Background
Central to Islamic teachings, the name ‘ar-Raḥīm’ first surfaces prominently in the opening Az-Zumar verse significant in faithful recitals. Enthroned in the phrase “Bismillah ar-Raḥmān ar-Rahim” (“In the name of God, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate”), it manifests the dual essence of divine compassion.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Similarities:
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Across Abrahamic Faiths:
- The God of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam carries compassionate attributes, symbolizing tenderness across all these monotheistic beliefs.
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Compassionate Phrases:
- Phrases such as “God is benevolent” in various faiths resonate with the same intrinsic divine mercy.
Differences:
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Theological Integration:
- Islam uniquely frames Ar-Raḥīm within a structure of 99 distinct divine names, each capturing different divine qualities.
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Invocation Practices:
- The ritualistic invocation of ‘Basmala’ before significant tasks is uniquely rooted in Islamic tradition.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Merciful
- Kindly
- Benevolent
- Gracious
Antonyms:
- Harsh
- Unkind
- Merciless
- Ruthless
Related Terms with Definitions
- Ar-Raḥmān: The Merciful.
- Ar-Ra’ūf: Another name of Allah representing ‘The Most Kind.’
- Al-Ghafūr: The Forgiving.
Exciting Facts
- One of Allah’s names encompassing both ritualistic prayers and everyday Muslim conversations.
- Considered essential in understanding Allah’s interaction with creation.
Quotations from Notable Writers
Jalal ad-Din Rumi: “Close your eyes, fall in love, stay there. Welcome the compassion of Ar-Raḥīm through every heartbeat and breath.”
Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Studies
- The Study Quran: Compiled by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
- Ninety-Nine Names of Allah by David Bentley: A Philosophical Exploration.
- My Mercy Encompasses All: The Theology of Mercy in Islam and the Bible by Richard Swinburne.
Quizzes
Inspirational Thought:
“Compassion is the essence of life, evident in every creation. When we invoke ‘Ar-Raḥīm’, we reflect upon that divine compassion within and around us.”
With boundless compassion, Ibrahim Al-Hakim October 2023
