Al-Muʿizz (المعز)
Definition
Al-Muʿizz (المعز) - “The One who giveth honour.” It is one of the ninety-nine names or attributes of Allah, indicating God’s ability to bestow honor, dignity, and respect to whom He wills.
Etymology
The term Al-Muʿizz originates from the Arabic root verb ʿazza (عَزَّ), which means “to honor” or “to exalt”. The title Al-Muʿizz thus emphasizes God’s attribute of bestowing honor and dignity.
Arabic: المعز
Turkish: El-Mu’izz
Qur’anic Reference
Although the specific name Al-Muʿizz does not directly appear in the Qur’an, the attribute of honoring and dignifying people is implied in various verses. One direct reference to this attribute can be found in:
Sūrah Āl-ʿImrān (3:26)
<p>“Say, ‘O Allah, Owner of Sovereignty, You give sovereignty to whom You will and You take sovereignty away from whom You will. You honor whom You will and You humble whom You will. In Your hand is [all] good. Indeed, You are over all things competent.’”</p>
Significance in Islam
Al-Muʿizz is an integral aspect of Islamic theology, reflecting God’s supreme authority and his ability to bestow honor and dignity. This name is often invoked in prayers and supplications by Muslims who seek dignity, respect, and protection from dishonor and disgrace.
Context in Devotion
Muslims often use the name Al-Muʿizz in personal prayers (duʿa) and during the recitation of Asma’ul-Husna, the ninety-nine names of Allah. Acknowledging this attribute helps believers reinforce their trust in divine justice and mercy.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “The Ninety-Nine Names of Allah: Meaning & Explanation” by Imam Jazuli
- “Al-Ghazali on the Ninety-nine Beautiful Names of God” by Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali
- “The Meanings and Explanation of the Glorious Qur’an” by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
- “The Call to Divine Unity: The Thought and Practice of Sufi Masters” by Annemarie Schimmel
Takeaways
- Al-Muʿizz (المعز) is one of the ninety-nine beautiful names of Allah, which means “The One who giveth honour.”
- This attribute emphasizes the sovereignty of Allah in bestowing dignity and honor.
- The idea is reflected in Qur’anic teachings, even if the specific name does not appear verbatim in the text.
- Understanding and invoking this name enhances a Muslim’s spiritual and emotional connection to God.
Conclusion
Al-Muʿizz encapsulates the divine attribute of God as the ultimate source of honor and dignity. Recognizing and remembering this name can provide spiritual comfort and strength, reinforcing the belief that all honor and respect ultimately come from Allah. This understanding nurtures humility and faith among Muslims, further embedding the core principles of Islamic theology into the daily practice of believers.
