Reflections on the Name of Allah: Ar-Raheem
He who acts with extreme kindness
The name Ar-Raheem (in Arabic: ٱلْرَّحِيْمُ) comes from the same root as Ar-Rahman which refers to Allah’s attribute of being Merciful. Although similarly related the meanings are different. Ar-Rahman can be understood to refer to Allah as the origination/source of all mercy, whereas Ar-Raheem refers to its sustaining/infiniteness. Some view the name of Ar-Raheem as being merciful to His creation deserving of mercy (primarily the mercy reserved for the believers).
(إِلَّا الَّذِينَ تَابُوا وَأَصْلَحُوا وَبَيَّنُوا فَأُولَٰئِكَ أَتُوبُ عَلَيْهِمْ ۚ وَأَنَا التَّوَّابُ الرَّحِيمُ ) البقرة 2: 160
(Except those who repent and do righteous deeds, and openly declare (the truth which they concealed). These, I will accept their repentance. And I am the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful.) Al-Baqara 2: 160
it’s understood that Allah’s mercy is vast and encompasses all of creation, not just Muslims. The Qur’an frequently emphasizes Allah’s mercy towards all of humanity, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. Islam teaches that Allah’s mercy is all-encompassing and extends to everyone, regardless of their faith. It’s part of the concept of universal grace and compassion in Islam. This understanding encourages believers to emulate Allah’s mercy by being kind and compassionate to all people, regardless of their religion or creed.
۞ قُلْ يَـٰعِبَادِىَ ٱلَّذِينَ أَسْرَفُوا۟ عَلَىٰٓ أَنفُسِهِمْ لَا تَقْنَطُوا۟ مِن رَّحْمَةِ ٱللَّهِ ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَغْفِرُ ٱلذُّنُوبَ جَمِيعًا ۚ إِنَّهُۥ هُوَ ٱلْغَفُورُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ
“Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.'”) Az-Zummar 39:53
It is mentioned 123 times in the Holy Quran
Ar-Raheem: The Manifestation of Mercy in Divine Forgiveness
Allah, as Ar-Raheem, uniquely demonstrates His mercy through the act of forgiveness, offering redemption and a chance for renewal to those who turn back to Him. This attribute is particularly comforting for believers, as it assures them that Allah’s mercy is always within reach, ready to embrace those who repent and strive to amend their ways.
“Except those who repent and do righteous deeds, and openly declare (the truth which they concealed). These, I will accept their repentance. And I am the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful.” (Al-Baqara 2:160)
This verse illustrates that Allah’s mercy facilitates a powerful transformation within individuals—forgiving them, accepting their repentance, and guiding them back to righteousness. It reassures believers that no matter the severity of their missteps, the mercy of Ar-Raheem is a constant source of spiritual rejuvenation and moral realignment. This understanding encourages a continual return to ethical behavior and personal integrity, driven by the hope of divine forgiveness and the perpetual opportunity for personal growth.
Ar-Raheem: Encouraging Compassion Among Humanity
The attribute of Ar-Raheem not only shapes the believers’ view of Allah but also molds their interactions with fellow human beings. By reflecting on how Allah deals with His creation—offering forgiveness and chances for redemption—believers are inspired to embody these qualities in their own lives.
“Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.'” (Az-Zummar 39:53)
This call to not despair serves as a reminder to believers to also be sources of hope and forgiveness in their communities. It promotes a culture of mercy where people are quick to forgive, slow to judge, and eager to help others correct their paths. This emulation of divine mercy enhances social cohesion and fosters an environment where community members feel safe and supported in their journey towards betterment.
Ar-Raheem: Universal Mercy Beyond Belief Systems
Ar-Raheem extends His mercy universally, crossing the bounds of faith, ethnicity, and creed. This universal aspect of Allah’s mercy serves as a foundational principle for the ethical and moral framework of Islam, which advocates for compassion and kindness to all creation.
“We have not sent you but as a mercy to the worlds.” (Al-Anbiya 21:107)
Referencing the Prophet Muhammad as a mercy to all worlds underscores the inclusive nature of Islamic mercy. It compels Muslims to act as agents of this mercy, promoting peace and understanding across different communities. This universal approach not only helps in fostering positive interfaith relations but also reinforces the concept of global humanism—respect and kindness towards all, regardless of their differences.