Al-Qābiẓ (القابض)
Definition
Al-Qābiẓ (القابض), translated as “The Restrainer” or “The Withholder,” is one of the ninety-nine attributes or names of God in Islam. It signifies God’s power to restrain and withhold.
Etymology
The term Al-Qābiẓ (القابض) comes from the Arabic root “قبض” (q-b-ḍ), which means “to seize,” “to grasp,” or “to hold.” The same root is used in several other contexts within the Arabic language, reflecting various forms of holding, constraining, or controlling.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: القابض (Al-Qābiẓ)
- Turkish: El-Kâbız
Significance
While Al-Qābiẓ does not explicitly appear in the Qur’an, its conceptual significance is embedded in Islamic theology. It represents God’s attribute of controlling and restraining provision, life, and circumstances according to His wisdom. This name is often paired with Al-Bāsiṭ (الباسط), meaning “The Expander,” to illustrate the balance between God’s abilities to withhold and to expand His bounties and mercy.
Further Studies
For those interested in a deeper understanding of Al-Qābiẓ and the other attributes of God in Islamic tradition, the following books are recommended:
- “The Ninety-Nine Names of God in Islam” by T.P. Hughes - This book offers detailed descriptions of each of the names and their significance in Islamic theology.
- “Divine Names: The 99 Healing Names of the One Love” by Rosina-Fawzia al-Rawi - A more spiritual exploration of the divine names, including Al-Qābiẓ.
- “God’s Names and the Qur’an: A Literary Approach to the Divine Attributes in Islamic Texts” by Andreas Goerke - Provides a scholarly analysis of the divine names, especially their occurrences and interpretations in Islamic texts.
Takeaways
- Al-Qābiẓ is one of the ninety-nine names of God in Islam, representing His power to restrain and hold.
- It does not appear directly in the Qur’an but holds significant theological importance.
- Complemented by Al-Bāsiṭ, it emphasizes the duality of God’s attributes in both withholding and granting.
- Exploring the ninety-nine names offers deep insights into the Islamic understanding of the divine nature.
Conclusion
Al-Qābiẓ is a profound concept within Islamic theology that underscores the complexity and multifaceted nature of God’s attributes. By learning about names like Al-Qābiẓ, believers gain a more nuanced understanding of the divine and how it manifests in the world.
