Mercy in Islamic Thought: Raḥmah (رحمة)§
Mercy (Raḥmah) is an essential concept within Islamic theology and practice. It derives from the Arabic root (ر-ح-م), meaning to show compassion and kindness. The term “Raḥmah” features prominently in the Qurʾān and Hadith, illustrating the profound nature of divine mercy as an inherent and supreme attribute of Allah.
Etymology and Lexical Insight§
Etymology:
- Arabic: رحمة (Raḥmah) - Mercy, compassion.
- Hebrew: רַחַם (Raḥam) - To have compassion, to love.
Both the Arabic and Hebrew roots display a thematic connection, indicating a shared cultural understanding of mercy and compassion.
Divine Mercy in the Qurʾān§
Mercy is highlighted as a pivotal attribute of Allah in the Qurʾān, with nearly every chapter beginning with Bismillāhi ‘r-Raḥmāni ‘r-Raḥīm: “In the name of God, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate.” This omnipresent invocation accentuates the mercy that permeates the divine essence.
In the Qurʾān, Raḥmah is multifaceted:
- Divine Essence: Described as intrinsic to Allah.
- Human Example: Exemplified by God’s prophets and righteous believers.
Theological Interpretations§
Tafsīr-i-Raufī:
- Ar-Raḥmān: Exclusively divine.
- Ar-Raḥīm: Applicable to both God and creatures.
Jalālān and Al-Baiẓāwī:
- Equate the two terms, illustrating their interchangeable use despite nuanced connotations.
Al-Baiẓāwī’s Commentary:
- Emphasizes “softness of heart” (riqqatu ’l-qalb) and kindness, portraying divine sympathy despite Allah’s unchangeable nature.
Mercy Verses in the Qurʾān§
- Divine Treasures of Mercy: Indicating the inexhaustible nature of Allah’s kindness and forgiveness. (Sūrahs xvii. 102, xviii. 81)
- Paradise as Mercy: Describes heavenly reward as a manifestation of divine mercy. (Sūrah iii. 103)
Significant Qurʾānic References§
- Mercy Encompasses All: “My mercy embraces everything.” (Sūrah vii. 155)
- Despairing Forbidden: “Do not despair of God’s mercy; indeed, Allah forgives all sins.” (Sūrah xxxix. 54)
- Exclusive to Those in Error: “Only those who err despair of the mercy of their Lord.” (Sūrah xv. 56)
Traditions of Mercy§
Hadith Literature:
- God’s Overwhelming Mercy Over Wrath: “My mercy overcomes my anger.” (Mishkāt, book x. ch. 4)
- One Hundred Mercies: - One for the world, ninety-nine reserved for the Day of Judgment.
Interreligious and Cultural Perspectives§
Christianity’s Recognition: Christians in the Qurʾān are acknowledged for their mercy and compassion (Sūrah lvii. 27), indicating shared values across faiths.
Synonyms and Related Terms§
- Synonyms: Compassion, Kindness, Benevolence, Pity, Grace.
- Related Terms:
- Raʾfah (رأفة): Compassion.
- Maghfirah (مغفرة): Forgiveness.
- Rahīm (رحيم): Compassionate, Kind.
Interesting Facts and Quotations§
- Mishkāt Al-Maṣābīḥ: “God created mercy in one hundred parts and divided one part for the mercy among His creation.”
- The Dual Invocation: The dual attribute Raḥmān and Raḥīm emphasize the perpetual and encompassing nature of divine compassion.
Suggested Literature§
- “The Mercy of Allah in Islamic Theology” by M. ibn Muhumm / 2011
- “The Compassionate and Merciful in the Qurʾān” by N. El-Amin / 2015
- “Raḥmah: Divine Compassion in Islamic Spirituality” by Z. Arif / 2018
Quizzes§
In the warmth of divine mercy, may we find the courage to extend compassion and kindness to all beings.
ella N. Norik Publishing. 2023
