Al-Aʿla (الاعلى‎)

Al-Aʿla (الاعلى‎)

Al-Aʿla (الاعلى‎) - “The Most High.” The title of the LXXXVIIth Sūrah of the Qurʾān, in which the term is mentioned in the second verse, emphasizing the glorification of Allah.

Etymology

• Arabic: الاعلى‎ (Al-Aʿla)

  • “Al” (ال) - A definite article meaning “The”.
  • “‘Aʿla” (اعلى) - Translates directly to “Most High” or “Highest”.

• Turkish: “En Yüce”

References in the Qur’an

The term “Al-Aʿla” is prominently referenced in Surah Al-Aʿla (الاعلى‎), which is the 87th chapter of the Qur’an. The second verse states:

<p>&ldquo;سَبِّحِ اسْمَ رَبِّكَ الْأَعْلَى&rdquo; (<em>Sabbihisma rabbika al-aʿla</em>)</p> <p>Translation: &ldquo;Glorify the name of your Lord, the Most High&rdquo;</p>

Theological Significance

• Divine Attribute: “Al-Aʿla” is one of the many attributes of Allah, reflecting His supreme and unparalleled position in the cosmos. This title asserts Allah’s ultimate authority and exaltation above everything.

• Spiritual Reflection: For Muslims, the acknowledgment of Allah as “Al-Aʿla” serves as a reminder of the need to revere and submit to the divine will. It instructs believers to reflect on Allah’s greatness and maintain humility.

Further Exploration

Books for Further Studies

1. Tafsir ibn Kathir: Provides extensive commentary on Surah Al-Aʿla.
2. The Study Quran by Seyyed Hossein Nasr: Comprehensive translation and commentary on the Qur’an, including thematic insights.
3. In the Name of God: The Evolution of Religious and Islamic Naming Traditions by Giora Eliraz: Exploring the significance of divine names within Islamic context.

Key Takeaways

• Exalts Divine Nature: The term “Al-Aʿla” serves as a continuous reminder of Allah’s supreme and unparalleled status in Islamic theology.
• Reflects Humility: For believers, this term fosters a spiritual culture of reverence, submission, and respect for Allah.
• Integral in Daily Worship: The invocation of “Al-Aʿla” is central to daily prayers and supplications, highlighting a personal engagement with the transcendence of God.

Conclusion

The term Al-Aʿla (الاعلى‎) signifies “The Most High,” holding deep theological and spiritual importance in Islam. Referenced prominently in the Qur’an, particularly in Surah Al-Aʿla, this divine title underscores Allah’s supreme position and encourages worshippers to glorify Him. By invoking “Al-Aʿla,” Muslims celebrate the omnipotence of the divine, integrating this acknowledgment into their daily devotions and reflections.