Reflections on the Name of Allah: Al-Majid
The Sovereign, The Glorious.
The names “Al-Majid” and “Al-Majeed” are derived from the Arabic root word “majd,” which conveys the meanings of glorification, honor, and praise. In Islamic tradition, praising and glorifying Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) is central to worship and spiritual devotion.
The phrases “Subhanallah” (glory be to Allah), “Alhamdulillah” (all praise is due to Allah), and “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the greatest) — are fundamental in expressing reverence and gratitude towards Allah. They encapsulate the essence of glorification, praise, and acknowledgment of Allah’s greatness, which are core principles in Islamic faith and practice.
In the Quran you will find the Name Majeed. But Majid is not mentioned in the Quran.
(قَالُوٓا۟ أَتَعْجَبِينَ مِنْ أَمْرِ ٱللَّهِ ۖ رَحْمَتُ ٱللَّهِ وَبَرَكَـٰتُهُۥ عَلَيْكُمْ أَهْلَ ٱلْبَيْتِ ۚ إِنَّهُۥ حَمِيدٌۭ مَّجِيدٌۭ)
(They responded, “Are you astonished by Allah’s decree? May Allah’s mercy and blessings be upon you, O people of this house. Indeed, He is Praiseworthy, All-Glorious.”) Hud 11:73
The Unfathomable Glory of Allah
Reflecting on the name Al-Majid, we delve into the depths of Allah’s infinite glory and nobility. Al-Majid conveys the idea of Allah’s inherent and unparalleled magnificence. Unlike worldly honor and glory, which can be transient and dependent on external factors, Allah’s majesty is intrinsic and eternal. This divine name reminds us that all creation pales in comparison to Allah’s sublime nature.
Consider the Quranic verse in Surah Hud (هود):
قَالُوٓا۟ أَتَعْجَبِينَ مِنْ أَمْرِ ٱللَّهِ ۖ رَحْمَتُ ٱللَّهِ وَبَرَكَـٰتُهُۥ عَلَيْكُمْ أَهْلَ ٱلْبَيْتِ ۚ إِنَّهُۥ حَمِيدٌۭ مَّجِيدٌۭ
“They responded, ‘Are you astonished by Allah’s decree? May Allah’s mercy and blessings be upon you, O people of this house. Indeed, He is Praiseworthy, All-Glorious.'” (11:73)
This verse reflects the eternal glory of Allah, which is beyond human comprehension. It assures believers that Allah’s majesty encompasses all aspects of existence, offering solace and strength. For Muslims, understanding Al-Majid fosters a sense of awe and reverence, encouraging deeper devotion and recognition of Allah’s supreme position in the universe.
Experiencing the Glory in Everyday Life
The name Al-Majid signifies not only the glory of Allah but also His expansive generosity and kindness. In our daily lives, we witness countless examples of Allah’s munificence—from the sustenance provided to all living beings to the mercy bestowed upon those who seek forgiveness. This attribute of Allah encourages Muslims to reflect on the divine grace that permeates their lives.
The Quran captures this generosity in numerous verses, reminding us of Allah’s boundless provision and mercy. One such reminder is found in Surah Al-Mulk (الملك):
تَبَارَكَ ٱلَّذِى بِيَدِهِ ٱلْمُلْكُ وَهُوَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍۢ قَدِيرٌ ٱلَّذِى خَلَقَ ٱلْمَوْتَ وَٱلْحَيَوٰةَ لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ أَيُّكُمْ أَحْسَنُ عَمَلًۭا ۚ وَهُوَ ٱلْعَزِيزُ ٱلْغَفُورُ
“Blessed is He in whose hand is dominion, and He is over all things competent—[He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed—and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.” (67:1-2)
This verse reflects the glory and might of Allah, who is sovereign over all creation. For Muslims, understanding Al-Majid encourages gratitude and humility, recognizing that every blessing and provision comes from Allah’s infinite grace.
Reverence and Gratitude: Living the Teachings of Al-Majid
Incorporating the reverence for Al-Majid into daily life transforms a Muslim’s approach to worship and gratitude. The frequent recitation of phrases like “Subhanallah” (Glory be to Allah), “Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah), and “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest) are not mere rituals but profound expressions of recognizing Allah’s infinite glory and generosity. These declarations serve as constant reminders of Allah’s presence and magnificence in our lives.
Reflecting on the divine names in modern contexts, such as technological advancements or social achievements, reminds us that all progress and success are ultimately due to Allah’s will and blessing. By attributing our accomplishments to Allah, we cultivate a sense of humility and gratitude. This perspective fosters a balanced life where success is met with thankfulness, and challenges are approached with trust in Allah’s wisdom and support.
The Quran captures this sentiment beautifully in Surah Ibrahim (إبراهيم):
وَإِذْ تَأَذَّنَ رَبُّكُمْ لَئِن شَكَرْتُمْ لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمْ وَلَئِن كَفَرْتُمْ إِنَّ عَذَابِى لَشَدِيدٌۭ
“And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'” (14:7)
This verse encapsulates the relationship between gratitude and divine favor. Recognizing Allah as Al-Majid encourages Muslims to live with an attitude of gratitude and reverence, acknowledging that all blessings and successes come from Him.
In these reflections, we see how the name Al-Majid deepens our understanding of Allah’s supreme glory and generous nature. It inspires Muslims to live with a profound sense of reverence, gratitude, and reliance on Allah, guiding them towards a life of spiritual richness and divine connection.