📜 ISM-I-ṢIFAH (اسم صفة): A Deep Dive into Divine Names and Attributes
Comprehensive Definition
ISM-I-ṢIFAH (اسم صفة) combines two Arabic words, ‘Ism meaning “name” and Ṣifah indicating “attribute” or “quality.” Together, ISM-I-ṢIFAH denotes the names and the corresponding attributes of Allah (God) as understood in Islamic theology.
Etymology
- ‘Ism: Derived from Arabic root ‘-s-m, often linked to signify a core essence or a distinct name.
- Ṣifah: From the root ṣ-w-f, indicating description, manner, or quality.
Background
Within the framework of Islamic theology, ISM-I-ṢIFAH holds great prominence. Muslims believe in the “Beautiful Names of Allah” (Asma ul-Husna), which are 99 distinct names through which God’s attributes are appreciated, revered, and understood. Each name is a unique reflection of His infinite attributes, like Al-Rahman (The Merciful), Al-Hakim (The Wise), and Al-Qadir (The Omnipotent).
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islam and Christianity:
- Similarity: Both lay considerable emphasis on the attributes of God, e.g., God being merciful, just, and omnipotent.
- Difference: The approach to and enumeration of these attributes can vary significantly, with Christianity not having a set number of divine attributes like the 99 names in Islam.
Islam and Hinduism:
- Similarity: Similar reverence for divine attributes is seen in the manifold names and forms of deities.
- Difference: Hinduism may employ both polytheistic and monotheistic frameworks, unlike the strictly monotheistic conception in Islam.
Synonyms
- Divine Names: Refers to the names associated with God’s attributes.
- Attributes of God: Another term for the qualities or predicates associated with God.
Antonyms
- None of Note: As ISM-I-ṢIFAH is a theistic concept, there is no direct antonym in the scope of theology.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Asma ul-Husna: The 99 Beautiful Names of Allah that describe His attributes.
- Tawhid: The oneness of God, fundamental to appreciating His diverse attributes.
- Sifat: Attributes, particularly of God, in Islamic theology.
Exciting Facts
- Concurrent Recitation: Muslims regularly recite the Asma ul-Husna in supplications, prayers, and for spiritual healing.
- Unique Numerology: Some believe reciting each name 99 times confers specific divine benefits and protection.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Al-Ghazali: “The believer recognizes the Divine Names and savors their honey by tasting the fate of the firm destiny, experiencing death in love continuously.”
- Rumi: “Go on! Go on! Until we recognize /The shadows of the Names and Attributes divine.”
References and Suggested Literature for Further Study
- “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” by Gai Eaton.
- “The Divine Names and The Mystical Attributes” by Ibn Arabi.
- “Al-Ghazali on the Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” translated by David B. Burrell.
Quizzes
Rahim Al-Majid
2023-10-03
“Understanding the divine names can illuminate the connection between the Creator and humanity, bringing deeper comprehension and spiritual harmony.”
Farewell, and may your explorations into divine attributes enrich your spirit and knowledge.
