Reflections on the Name of Allah: Al-Jaleel
The Sublime One, The Beneficent, The One who is attributed with greatness of Power and Glory of status.
Majestic is a term that evokes grandeur, awe, and greatness. When we describe something as majestic, we emphasize its extraordinary and impressive qualities.
- Majestic Attributes:
- Knowledge: A majestic being possesses profound knowledge—knowledge that transcends time, space, and limitations. It encompasses understanding beyond human comprehension.
- Strength: Majestic strength isn’t merely physical; it’s the power to shape destinies, uphold justice, and create worlds. It’s strength that doesn’t waver.
- Sovereignty: Majestic sovereignty means absolute rulership. It’s the authority to govern, decree, and shape the course of existence.
- Wealth: Majestic wealth isn’t limited to material riches. It includes abundance in wisdom, blessings, and providence.
- Power: Majestic power isn’t coercive; it’s the ability to create, sustain, and transform. It’s the force behind cosmic order.
- Dominion: Majestic dominion extends beyond earthly realms. It encompasses the unseen and the eternal.
- Uniqueness: Majestic uniqueness defies comparison. It’s unlike anything before or after—an unparalleled existence.
- Immeasurability: Majestic greatness cannot be quantified. It transcends measurement and limitation.
- No Resemblance: Majestic attributes bear no resemblance to anything finite. They stand alone, unmatched.
- Al-Jalil (الجليل): This name of Allah, meaning “The Majestic,” reflects His perfection in all attributes. His majesty is beyond our comprehension.
- Allah’s Majesty:
- Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَالَىٰ) embodies all these majestic qualities. His majesty is absolute, eternal, and without equal.
In summary, to be majestic is to embody divine attributes beyond human reach—a majesty that belongs solely to Allah.
(وَيَبْقَىٰ وَجْهُ رَبِّكَ ذُو ٱلْجَلَـٰلِ وَٱلْإِكْرَامِ)
(Only your Lord Himself, full of Majesty and Honour, will remain ˹forever) Ar-Rahman 55: 27
This name has not been mentioned in the Quran.
Power: The Creative and Sustaining Force of Al-Jaleel
The power of Al-Jaleel encompasses the creation of the universe, the orchestration of its laws, and the ongoing process of sustaining all life. This divine attribute is not coercive but rather a fundamental force that enables the existence and orderly functioning of everything. For Muslims, acknowledging this power in daily life cultivates a sense of awe and humility. It teaches that while humans have their own sphere of influence, the ultimate control lies with Allah. This realization encourages believers to approach their responsibilities with humility and to strive for excellence, knowing that their abilities are a trust from Allah to be used in accordance with His divine will. This attribute also fosters a deep sense of reliance on Allah, as believers understand that their efforts are underpinned by divine support, which is the true source of any success.
Sovereignty: The Supreme Authority and Governance of Al-Jaleel
The sovereignty of Al-Jaleel is absolute and encompasses all realms—earthly and beyond. This means that Allah governs the laws of nature, the flow of history, and the destiny of all creatures. In practical terms for a Muslim, this translates into living a life of submission to Allah’s decrees and seeking to understand and implement His laws as laid out in the Quran and Sunnah. It encourages believers to engage in regular consultation of Islamic teachings when making decisions, reinforcing the idea that Allah’s guidance is paramount and perfect. Additionally, this belief in divine sovereignty helps Muslims maintain inner peace in tumultuous times, trusting that Allah’s plan is just and that He is in control, guiding the course of events towards outcomes that serve a greater purpose.
Dominion: The Boundless Realm of Al-Jaleel
The dominion of Al-Jaleel extends far beyond the limits of human perception, covering not only this world but also the hereafter and realms unseen. This aspect of Al-Jaleel’s majesty implies that His rule is not limited by time, space, or any other dimension that restricts human rulers. For Muslims, this understanding shapes their worldview, reminding them that their actions have consequences that reach into the eternal. It encourages a life lived with an awareness of the hereafter, prioritizing deeds that secure eternal rewards over temporary worldly gains. Furthermore, it instills a profound respect for the mysteries of the unseen world, which are often referenced in Islamic teachings. This respect manifests in daily practices such as reciting the Quran, engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and performing acts of worship, which connect the believer to the vast dominion of Al-Jaleel.
Each of these attributes of Al-Jaleel not only underscores the majestic nature of Allah but also has practical implications for how a Muslim views and conducts themselves in their everyday life, always with the consciousness of the grandeur and governance of Allah.