Reflections on the Name of Allah: Al-Mutakabbir
He is exalted far above all creation, The One who is clear from the attributes of the creatures and from resembling them. He has rights, privileges, and qualities that others do not have. He is tremendous and manifests this greatness in all things and many ways.
The name “Al-Mutakabbir,” often translated as “The Proud” or “The Majestic,” indeed conveys the idea that Allah possesses an unparalleled greatness and magnificence that sets Him apart from all creation. This attribute emphasizes the absolute sovereignty and supremacy of Allah, highlighting the notion that His greatness cannot be rivaled or equaled by any other being.
The term “pride” here does not carry the negative connotations associated with human arrogance or vanity. Instead, it reflects the divine attribute of grandeur, majesty, and exaltedness. Allah’s pride signifies His absolute perfection, splendor, and superiority over everything in existence.
By invoking the name “Al-Mutakabbir,” believers acknowledge and affirm the incomparable greatness of Allah. It serves as a reminder of His transcendent nature and prompts reverence, awe, and humility in the face of His boundless majesty.
In essence, “Al-Mutakabbir” encapsulates the concept of monotheism, affirming that Allah alone possesses true greatness and that nothing can rival or challenge His supremacy.
Abu Sa’id Khudri and Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger Pbuh as saying: ‘Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, said: Glory is His lower garment and Majesty is His cloak and (Allah says,) He who contends with Me in regard to them I shall torment him. ‘
(هُوَ اللَّهُ الَّذِي لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْمَلِكُ الْقُدُّوسُ السَّلَامُ الْمُؤْمِنُ الْمُهَيْمِنُ الْعَزِيزُ الْجَبَّارُ الْمُتَكَبِّرُ ۚ سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ عَمَّا يُشْرِكُونَ ( الحشر 59: 23
(Allah is He, than Whom there is no other god;- the Sovereign, the Holy One, the Source of Peace (and Perfection), the Guardian of Faith, the Preserver of Safety, the Exalted in Might, the Irresistible, the Supreme: Glory to Allah. (High is He) above the partners they attribute to Him) Al-Hashr 59:23
It is mentioned 1 time in the Holy Quran
Reflection and Worship under the Watch of The Dominant One
The recognition of Allah as Al-Mutakabbir, “The Dominant One,” naturally leads to a more introspective and reflective approach to worship. Believers are encouraged to ponder the vastness of Allah’s authority and dominion, which in turn fosters a deeper commitment to fulfilling religious duties with humility and reverence. This understanding compels Muslims to align their actions more closely with divine will, engaging in worship that truly honors Allah’s commanding stature. A fitting Quranic verse to reflect this theme is:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اذْكُرُوا اللَّهَ ذِكْرًا كَثِيرًا
“O you who have believed, remember Allah with much remembrance.” (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:41)
The Dominant One’s Role in Shaping Islamic Leadership
In today’s globalized world, the concept of leadership transcends traditional boundaries, encompassing not only political or community leaders but also influencers and public figures. The attribute of The Dominant One reminds Muslim leaders in all spheres to carry their authority with dignity and responsibility, reflecting Allah’s majesty and grandeur. Leaders are called to practice ethical leadership, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and equity, which are crucial in corporate governance, social activism, and public service. This understanding of divine majesty should steer leaders to avoid corruption and to act with the welfare of their constituents or followers in mind, inspired by prophetic teachings:
الْعِزُّ إِزَارُهُ وَالْكِبْرِيَاءُ رِدَاؤُهُ وَقَالَ يَا عَبْدِي أَنَا الْمَلِكُ
“Glory is His lower garment and Majesty is His cloak… ‘O My servants, I am the Sovereign.'” (Sahih Hadith)
Reflecting on The Dominant One in Community Ethics
In a contemporary setting, understanding The Dominant One can play a critical role in fostering social justice and ethical conduct. This attribute encourages the Muslim community to combat social injustices such as racial discrimination, economic inequality, and environmental degradation. Recognizing Allah’s supreme majesty and perfect justice motivates believers to advocate for fair treatment and dignity for all, irrespective of race, status, or wealth. It promotes active involvement in societal issues, supporting movements for civil rights and sustainable development, and engaging in community service and philanthropy. The call to embody humility and justice in the face of divine majesty is echoed in the Quran:
وَلَا تَمْشِ فِي الْأَرْضِ مَرَحًا ۖ إِنَّكَ لَنْ تَخْرِقَ الْأَرْضَ وَلَنْ تَبْلُغَ الْجِبَالَ طُولًا
“And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth apart, and you will never reach the mountains in height.” (Al-Isra 17:37)
These reflections on The Dominant One not only enhance personal and communal worship but also highlight the importance of adopting humility and justice as core tenets of modern Muslim life. By acknowledging Allah’s unmatched majesty, believers are inspired to foster a lifestyle that respects divine order and actively contributes to societal welfare.