Mālikuʾl-Mulk (مالك الملك)

Mālikuʾl-Mulk (مالك الملك) in Islam

Introduction

Mālikuʾl-Mulk (مالك الملك), translated as “The Lord of the Kingdom,” is one of the ninety-nine names or attributes of God (Allah) in Islam. This unique epiphet emphasizes God’s sovereignty and ultimate control over all aspects of existence.

Etymology

• Arabic: Mālikuʾl-Mulk (مالك الملك)
• Etymology:
  • Mālik (مالك) means “Owner” or “King.”
  • Mulk (ملك) refers to “Kingdom” or “Dominion.”

Qur’anic Reference

The name Mālikuʾl-Mulk is explicitly mentioned in the Qur’ān, specifically in Sūrah Āl-‘Imrān (3:26):

<p>&ldquo;Say, ‘O God, Lord of the Kingdom (Mālikuʾl-Mulk), You give the kingdom to whomsoever You please, and You strip the kingdom from whomsoever You please. You honor whom You please, and You humble whom You please. In Your hand is all good. Verily, You are over all things competent.’”</p>

Significance and Usage

Mālikuʾl-Mulk holds a significant place in Islamic theology and practice:

1. Sovereignty: This name denotes God’s absolute authority and reign over the universe.
2. Divine Will: Reflects the belief that God bestows and rescinds power and authority according to His divine wisdom and mercy.
3. Human Humility: Encourages believers to acknowledge that all power and kingdom are transient and ultimately belong to God alone.

Related Concepts

• Tawhid: The concept of monotheism in Islam, affirming the oneness of God.
• Qadar: Divine predestination, the belief that God has predetermined all matters.

Further Reading

For more in-depth exploration, consider the following books:

1. “The Ninety-Nine Names of God” by Eamonn Gearon
2. “The Most Beautiful Names of Allah” by Samira Fayyad Khawaldeh
3. “God and Man in the Qur’an” by Toshihiko Izutsu

Takeaways

• Acknowledgment: Understanding and acknowledging Mālikuʾl-Mulk can deepen one’s faith and reliance on God’s supremacy.
• Reflection: It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of worldly power and the permanence of divine authority.
• Humility: Encourages humility and submission to God’s will, acknowledging that all blessings and hardships come from Him.

Conclusion

Mālikuʾl-Mulk is a profound representation of God’s omnipotence and dominion, underscoring key theological themes in Islam. Recognizing and understanding this attribute can enrich a believer’s relationship with God, fostering a deeper sense of reliance, humility, and faith in divine wisdom.