AR-RABB (الرب)
Etymology and Definition
AR-RABB (الرب), often rendered as “The Lord” or “The Sustainer,” is a frequent title for God in the Qur’an. The Arabic رب (Rabb) shares etymological ties with the Hebrew רַב (Rab), found in the titles of authority and reverence within biblical texts. The word ‘Rabb’ conveys the meaning of one who nurtures, sustains, and educates to eventual perfection.
Theological Background
In Islamic theology, AR-RABB is not an independent name of God like Allah, which is considered the “Ismu Ẕāt” or the essential name. Instead, AR-RABB is an “Ismu Ṣifah” or an attribute that describes God’s nurturing and sustenance. Al-Baiḍāwī, a renowned commentator, interprets “Rabb” to mean someone who raises something to its perfection gradually, emphasizing the nurturing role of God.
Qur’anic References
- Sūrah Āl-’lmrān, 3:44: “God (Allāh) is my Lord (Rabb) and your Lord (Rabb).”
- Sūrah al-Kahf, 18:13: “Our Lord (Rabb) is the Lord (Rabb) of the heavens and the earth.”
These verses emphasize the universal lordship and nurturing care of God over all creation.
Cultural Significance and Comparative Perspective
In Jewish tradition, “YHWH” (Jehovah) bears similarities within its divine attribution but is considered a direct and personal name of God. The Greek “Kyrios” (Κύριος), used in the Septuagint and the Christian New Testament, and the Latin “Dominus” in the Vulgate, parallel AR-RABB in function and reverence. Despite varied traditions, the attribute of “Lordship” represents the characteristic of nurturing and omnipotent authority prevalent in all Abrahamic faiths.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
- Synonyms: The Sustainer, The Nurturer, The Guardian.
- Antonyms: Subordinate (This term lacks direct antonyms but can contrast roles under lordship).
- Related Terms:
- Rabbu ’l-ʿIzzah: Lord of Glory.
- Rabbu ’l-ʿĀlamīn: Lord of the Universe.
- Rabbu ’l-Arbāb: Lord of Lords.
- Rabbu ’l-ʿĪbād: Lord of (His) Servants.
Engaging Facts
- In many Islamic cultures, AR-RABB is invoked in daily prayers and supplications, expressing reliance and trust in God’s nurturing power.
- The Rabb-root word also extends to human titles, such as Rabbu ’d-Dār (Master of the house), showcasing the deep cultural influence of this divine attribute.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The term AR-RABB in Islam resonates deeply, reflecting a relationship of care and continuous nurturing tied intricately with the concept of providence.” — Hassan Al-Maqdisi
Recommended Literature
- The Meaning of the Qur’an by Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi
- The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary by Seyyed Hossein Nasr (Editor)
- The Names and Attributes of Allah by Al-Humayd
Farewell Thought
Reflect on the concept of AR-RABB as you navigate daily life, seeking not only to understand the divine attribute but to integrate a sense of nurturing and guardianship in your interactions and endeavors.
Au revoir and may you always be under the nurturing care of AR-RABB.
