Reflections on the Name of Allah: Al-Qahhaar
The name “Al-Qahhar” ( The All-Prevailing One / The Supreme) signifies the unmatched strength and sovereignty of Allah over all creation. As “The Dominator,” Allah’s authority is absolute, and no entity can rival or challenge His power. This attribute emphasizes the concept of divine supremacy and the inevitability of submission to His will.
The description of Allah as “Al-Qahhar” underscores His ability to overcome and subdue any opposition effortlessly. Those who dare to challenge or oppose Allah ultimately stand no chance against His overwhelming might and authority. Allah’s dominion extends over all aspects of existence, and His will governs everything in the universe without exception.
Moreover, the name “Al-Qahhar” implies that Allah’s dominion transcends temporal boundaries and extends into eternity. Thus, those who oppose Him are destined to fail inevitably, as they cannot escape the consequences of their defiance against the Almighty.
There are two names, Al-Qahir, and Al-Qahhar. The name Al-Qahir is the base form meaning “the irresistible.” On the other hand, Al-Qahhar is more emphatic, the one who is all over-powering, all-prevailing. Al-Qahir is mentioned twice in the Qur’an in 2 instances while Al-Qahhar is used more intensively, mentioned a total of 6 times.
(وَهُوَ ٱلْقَاهِرُ فَوْقَ عِبَادِهِۦ ۚ وَهُوَ ٱلْحَكِيمُ ٱلْخَبِيرُ)
(He reigns supreme over His creation. And He is the All-Wise, All-Aware.) Al-An’am 6:18
(وَهُوَ ٱلْقَاهِرُ فَوْقَ عِبَادِهِۦ ۖ وَيُرْسِلُ عَلَيْكُمْ حَفَظَةً حَتَّىٰٓ إِذَا جَآءَ أَحَدَكُمُ ٱلْمَوْتُ تَوَفَّتْهُ رُسُلُنَا وَهُمْ لَا يُفَرِّطُونَ)
(He reigns supreme over all of His creation, and sends recording-angels, watching over you. When death comes to any of you, Our angels take their soul, never neglecting this duty.) Al-An’am 6: 61
(قُلْ إِنَّمَا أَنَا مُنذِرٌ ۖ وَمَا مِنْ إِلَٰهٍ إِلَّا اللَّهُ الْوَاحِدُ الْقَهَّارُ) ص 38: 65
(Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “I am only a warner. And there is no god ˹worthy of worship˺ except Allah—the One, the Supreme.) Sad 38: 65
It is mentioned 6 times in the Holy Quran
Al-Qahhar: Embracing Divine Will in Personal Decisions
The recognition of Allah as Al-Qahhar, “The All-Prevailing One,” deeply influences how Muslims approach their personal decisions and life choices. Understanding that no force can rival Allah’s ultimate authority encourages believers to seek His guidance in all aspects of life, aligning their actions with divine will rather than personal desires. This submission to the divine will is not seen as surrender but as an empowering affirmation of faith, trusting that Allah’s plans are perfect. The Quran teaches this acceptance:
قُلْ إِنَّمَا أَنَا مُنذِرٌ ۖ وَمَا مِنْ إِلَٰهٍ إِلَّا اللَّهُ الْوَاحِدُ الْقَهَّارُ
“Say, ‘I am only a warner. And there is no deity except Allah, the One, the Supreme.'” (Sad 38:65)
This verse underlines the concept of monotheism and the supremacy of Allah’s will, guiding believers to rely on Him fully.
Al-Qahhar: Fostering Resilience through Trials
The attribute of Al-Qahhar also provides believers with a framework for understanding and enduring life’s trials and challenges. Recognizing Allah as the Supreme Dominator who controls the universe helps Muslims find strength and perseverance during difficult times. It reassures them that every hardship is under Allah’s control, and thus, every difficulty can be a means to grow spiritually and morally. This perspective is supported by the Quran’s depiction of Allah’s wisdom:
وَهُوَ ٱلْقَاهِرُ فَوْقَ عِبَادِهِۦ ۖ وَهُوَ ٱلْحَكِيمُ ٱلْخَبِيرُ
“He is the Dominator over His slaves, and He is the Wise, the Aware.” (Al-An’am 6:18)
This passage emphasizes that Allah’s dominion is paired with His omniscience and wisdom, comforting believers that there is a divine purpose behind every situation.
Al-Qahhar: Upholding Justice and Accountability
Al-Qahhar’s depiction of Allah as the Ultimate Authority underscores the importance of justice and accountability in the Islamic community. By acknowledging that Allah’s power is unmatched and that He reigns supreme over all creation, Muslims are reminded of the divine justice that awaits every action. This belief encourages a strong sense of moral responsibility and fairness in dealings with others, promoting a just society where the rights of all are respected and upheld. The Quran highlights this accountability:
وَهُوَ ٱلْقَاهِرُ فَوْقَ عِبَادِهِۦ ۖ وَيُرْسِلُ عَلَيْكُمْ حَفَظَةً
“He reigns supreme over His servants and sends guardians over you…” (Al-An’am 6:61)
This verse not only speaks of Allah’s supremacy but also of His protective oversight, ensuring that justice prevails and that everyone is accountable for their deeds.