Introduction to ISM-I-JALĀLĪ (اسم جلالى)
ISM-I-JALĀLĪ, translated as Majestic Names, refers to the attributes of God in Islam that articulate His supreme power and greatness. These names stand as a testament to the awe-inspiring and transcendent qualities of God, distinguishing Him as an omnipotent and sovereign entity.
Etymology and Linguistic Roots
- Etymology: The term “ISM-I-JALĀLĪ” is composed of three parts:
- ISM (اسم): This Arabic word means “name”.
- I (ـي): A possessive article meaning “of”.
- JALĀLĪ (جلالى): Derives from “jalāl” (جلال), meaning “majesty” or “greatness”.
Historical and Theological Background
From the earliest revelations to Prophet Muhammad, the ISM-I-JALĀLĪ have occupied a central position in Islamic theology. These majestic names are thought to closely mirror the intense power and sovereign authority of God, fostering reverence and submissiveness among believers. Some key instances and reflections within the Qurʾān include:
Al-Ḥākim (الحاكم) - The Judge
Occurs throughout the Qurʾān - e.g., Surah 6, Ayah 114
“…Shall I then seek a judge other than Allah? He it is Who has revealed to you the Book (which is) made manifest…”
Al-Ādil (العادل) - The Just
Occurs throughout the Qurʾān - e.g., Surah 7, Ayah 29
“Say, ‘My Lord has commanded justice and that you maintain yourselves [in devotion] of Him at every place or time of prostration, and call upon Him, sincere to Him in religion.’”
Al-Kabīr (الكبير) - The Great
Occurs throughout the Qurʾān - e.g., Surah 40, Ayah 12
“Indeed, He is the Most High, the Most Great.”
Cultural Context and Perspectives
Differences and Similarities:
- Similarities with other traditions: Much like Christianity’s emphasis on God’s omnipotent aspects (e.g., the titles King of Kings, Lord of Lords), ISM-I-JALĀLĪ focus on God’s absolute power.
- Cultural differences: The emphasis in Islam lays heavily on humility and submissiveness toward God’s inscrutable magnificence compared to other traditions where intercessory figures might lend a more approachable persona to divine attributes.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Asmā’ al-Ḥusnā (الأسماء الحسنى - The Beautiful Names of God)
- Antonyms: Human traits, imperfection
Related Terms:
- As-sifāt (الصفات): The attributes of God
- These encompass both majestic (jalālī) and beautiful (jamālī) qualities.
- Tawḥīd (توحيد): The oneness of God
- This underpins the doctrine that each name reflects a unique aspect of the singular, unparalleled nature of Allah.
Facts and Wisdom
Exciting Fact:
- In Sufi traditions, spiritual seekers often meditate on specific ISM-I-JALĀLĪ to connect deeply with the essence and grandeur of the Divine.
Quotation:
“Glory be to Him who has not taken a son and who has no partner in (His) dominion, nor needs He anyone’s support against any lack, and proclaim His all-encompassing greatness.” - Qurʾān, Surah 17, Ayah 111
Suggested Literature:
- “Ninety-Nine Names of God in Islam” by Yusuf Navas
- “Divine Names: The 99 Healing Names of the One Love” by Rosina-Fawzia al-Rawi
- “The Book of Divine Perfections” - Muhammad Siddiq’s Reflexions
Further Reading:
- The Qurʾān: Different translations including works by Abdullah Yusuf Ali and Marmaduke Pickthall explore the mention and interpretation of ISM-I-JALĀLĪ.
Inspirational Quiz
Farewell Thought
Embrace ISM-I-JALĀLĪ as they remind us not just of the transcendent awe of divinity but of the profound humility required to understand and honor the infinite.
Zaynab Al-Hussein
“Reflect deeply; for the essence of understanding rests in awe and mindful reverence.”
