Al-Ismu L-A’ẓam (الاسم الأعظم)
Definition
Al-Ismu L-A’ẓam (الاسم الأعظم) translates to “the greatest name” in Arabic. In Islamic theology, it is believed to be the most exalted and supreme name of God. This name encapsulates the totality of God’s attributes in their highest form. Many traditions suggest that this name is known only to the Prophets and holds the key to divine mysteries and powers.
Etymology
- Al-Ismu (الاسم): Means “the name.”
- Al-A’ẓam (الأعظم): Means “the greatest” or “the most exalted.”
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: الاسم الأعظم
- Turkish: Büyük İsim
Qur’anic References
Al-Ismu L-A’ẓam is believed to appear in the Qur’an, though it is not explicitly identified. Examples include:
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:256): “God (Allah), there is no god but He (Hū), the Living (al-Ḥaiy), the Self-subsisting (al-Qayyūm).”
- Surah Āli Imrān (3:1-2): Contains similar invocations as in Surah Al-Baqarah.
- Surah Tā Hā (20:110): “Faces shall be humbled before the Living (al-Ḥaiy) and the Self-subsisting (al-Qayyūm).”
From these verses, it is inferred that the great name may be Allah, Hū (He), al-Ḥaiy (the Living), or al-Qayyūm (the Self-Subsisting).
Theological Significance
Connection with God’s Names
The recognition of Al-Ismu L-A’ẓam suggests a deeper understanding of God’s nature. Various hadiths indicate that invoking this name carries unparalleled spiritual efficacy and a unique closeness to the Divine.
Comparative Context
The reverence and veneration for this name are often considered analogous to the Jewish tradition of the ineffable name of God, Jehovah. This aspect highlights the shared theological heritage and the solemn sanctity associated with divine names in the Abrahamic faiths.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” by Ghazali
- “Divine Names: The 99 Healing Names of the One God” by Rumi
- “God’s Names and Attributes in the Bible and the Qur’an” by Gerald Bray
Takeaways and Conclusion
- Al-Ismu L-A’ẓam is a profound and mysterious concept within Islamic theology, signifying the ultimate name of God.
- It appears in significant Qur’anic verses though not explicitly.
- Understanding this name can deepen one’s spiritual journey and provide insight into the completeness of God’s attributes.
- Comparative insights reveal its connection to similar beliefs in other Abrahamic faiths, emphasizing its transcendent and interfaith significance.
Al-Ismu L-A’ẓam represents a peak in Islamic theological thought, encapsulating the belief in the ineffable and all-encompassing nature of Allah.
