AT-TAUWĀB (التواب): The Merciful Turner
Definition and Etymology
AT-TAUWĀB (التواب) comes from the Arabic root T-W-B, meaning to return, to turn back, or to repent. In the context of Allah’s attributes, AT-TAUWĀB is translated as “the Relenting” or “the One who frequently turns in mercy.” This name signifies God’s continuous readiness to forgive and accept repentance.
Background
The name AT-TAUWĀB appears numerous times in the Qur’an, emphasizing God’s compassionate nature. Within the Qur’an, it is showcased not only as a general attribute but also through specific historical examples that amplify the depth of divine mercy and forgiveness. Among these instances are God’s relenting toward Adam after his transgression, toward the Israelites after worshipping the golden calf, and towards the three Muslims who failed to participate in the expedition to Tabūk.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In Abrahamic traditions, the concept of a God that forgives human transgressions is cross-cutting. Christianity speaks of a forgiving God through Jesus’ sacrifice, and Judaism also emphasizes repentance and God’s mercy, especially as seen during Yom Kippur. Across these faiths, a similarity is seen in the cycle of sin, repentance, and divine forgiveness.
Synonyms
- The Forgiver (Al-Ghaffār)
- The Pardoning (Al-‘Afūw)
- The Merciful (Ar-Raḥīm)
Antonyms
- The Punisher (Al-Muntaqim)
- The Justice (Al-‘Adl)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Tawbah (توبة): The act of repentance itself, where a person turns away from sins and returns to virtuous behavior.
- Al-Ghaffār (الغفار): Another name of God signifying “the Forgiving.”
- Ar-Raḥmān (الرحمن): The Most Compassionate, another aspect of God’s mercy.
Exciting Facts
- Repentance in Islam is free of intermediaries; no clergy must intervene. It is a direct communication between the sinner and Allah.
- The act of receiving forgiveness is not limited. One can repent repeatedly, reflecting Allah’s ongoing merciful nature.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves.” — Qur’an 2:222.
“The best of all sinners are those who repent.” — Prophet Muhammad (Sahih Muslim)
References
- The Holy Qur’an
- Sahih Muslim (Hadith compilation)
- “The Names of God in Islam” by Tosihiko Izutsu
Suggested Literature for Further Studies
- “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” by Al-Ghazali
- “The Divine Reality: God, Islam and the Mirage of Atheism” by Hamza Tzortzis
Inspirational Farewell
Reflect on AT-TAUWĀB, “the One who turns frequently”; let its essence encourage you towards constant self-improvement and precipitate your heart towards love, mercy, and forgiveness.
Yours in learning, Amina Al-Fahad (October 2023)
