Reflections on the Name of Allah: Al-Baari
This name only signifies that Allah created all things in proportion.
The Maker, The Creator who has the Power to turn the entities, to manifest, to create using pre-existing matter, evolve, to be individual free and clear of another thing, to be free and clear of fault or blemish.
Divine Synergy: How Al-Baari Complements Other Divine Names
The names “Al-Khaliq” “Al-Bari” and “Al-Musawwir” indeed offer unique insights into the process of creation as understood in Islamic theology. While they all relate to Allah’s creative abilities, they each highlight distinct aspects of His act of creation.
- Al-Khaliq (The Creator): This name emphasizes Allah’s ability to bring something into existence from nothingness. As “The Creator,” Allah is the ultimate source of all existence and has the power to conceive and initiate creation according to His divine will.
- Al-Bari (The Producer): This name underscores the aspect of initiation and bringing into existence. It signifies Allah’s role as the originator and initiator of all creation. As “The Producer,” Allah brings forth existence from non-existence, initiating the process of creation and giving rise to all that exists.
- Al-Musawwir (The Fashioner): This name emphasizes the aspect of design, organization, and shaping of creation. As “The Fashioner,” Allah not only brings things into existence but also designs and shapes them according to His divine plan. This involves arranging and molding the creation in a harmonious and orderly manner.
These names, when considered together, provide a comprehensive understanding of Allah’s role in creation. They highlight the stages of creation from conception to initiation and the meticulous design and organization of the created world. Each name offers a unique perspective on the creative process, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Allah’s attributes and His infinite wisdom in bringing about the universe.
(هُوَ اللَّهُ الْخَالِقُ الْبَارِئُ الْمُصَوِّرُ) الحشر 59 : 24
(He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor, the Fashioner) Al-Hashr 59:24
It is mentioned 3 times in the Holy Quran
Al-Baari: Emphasizing Balance and Proportion in Daily Life
In Islamic thought, the name Al-Baari highlights Allah’s role as the one who creates all things in proportion. This notion of balance and proportion is essential not only in the physical universe but also in how it can be mirrored in the daily lives of Muslims. Believers are inspired to seek balance in their personal lives, including their spiritual duties, family responsibilities, and social interactions. This balanced approach is encouraged in the Quran, where moderation is often emphasized as a fundamental principle, as seen in Surah Al-Baqarah:
وَكَذَٰلِكَ جَعَلْنَٰكُمْ أُمَّةً وَسَطًا “And thus We have made you a just community…” (Al-Baqarah 2:143)
This verse underlines the importance of justice and moderation, principles that are directly connected to the concept of proportionality introduced by Al-Baari.
Al-Baari: Inspiration for Creativity and Innovation
The attribute of Al-Baari as the Maker and Creator who evolves and individualizes creation inspires Muslims in fields of creativity and innovation. By understanding that Allah creates with purpose and distinction, believers are motivated to pursue innovation in technology, arts, and sciences, reflecting the divine attribute of creativity. This pursuit not only advances personal and community development but also serves as an act of worship by striving to emulate one of Allah’s attributes on a human scale. The Quran speaks to this idea of exploring and understanding the creation:
قُلِ انظُرُوا مَاذَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ “Say, ‘Behold what is in the heavens and earth’…” (Yunus 10:101)
This encouragement to observe and reflect on the universe can be seen as a call to innovate and create responsibly within the capabilities granted by Allah.
Al-Baari: Upholding Ethical Standards in Professional Life
Al-Baari’s connotation of creating without fault or blemish encourages Muslims to uphold the highest ethical standards in their professional and business dealings. Just as Allah creates flawlessly, Muslims are urged to strive for excellence and integrity in their work. This attribute teaches that one’s professional conduct should be free of deceit and corruption, mirroring the purity of divine creation. The Quran reinforces this ethical stance in many verses, including the emphasis on honest trade:
وَأَوْفُوا الْكَيْلَ وَالْمِيزَانَ بِالْقِسْطِ “And give full measure and weight in justice…” (Al-An’am 6:152)
This directive to maintain fairness in measurement underscores the broader principle of integrity and honesty, vital traits that reflect the perfection of Al-Baari in everyday transactions and interactions.