In this inquiry, the question revolves around the frequent mention of 'the Almighty, the Wise' in the Quran, particularly in the context of the 'Musabbihat' surahs. The questioner seeks to understand the significance of this phrase and its connection to the act of glorifying Allah.
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1 Answer
Peace be upon you. The understanding of the knowledge dimensions of the conjunction of 'the Almighty' with 'the Wise' depends on the contexts in which this conjunction appears. To clarify, let us first look at the linguistic meanings of both terms.
The term 'Almighty' in Arabic comes from the root 'عز' (to be strong), referring to someone who is dominant, powerful, and unconquerable. It denotes uniqueness and rarity, implying that the Almighty is one who possesses might and honor, and is beyond comparison.
On the other hand, 'Wise' refers to someone characterized by wisdom, meaning that they place things in their appropriate contexts. A wise person does not err in their management, and it is also said that the wise one is the one who has authority.
The name 'Almighty' is mentioned alongside 'Wise' in 47 instances in the Quran, highlighting the cognitive dimensions of this pairing. If one imagines an Almighty being who has the power to do as they wish, the greatest fear would be injustice and the potential for arrogance. Many earthly kings, after gaining power, have committed injustices and issued arbitrary commands without benefit. The Almighty may become detached from managing the affairs of others due to their might, and one may fear their oppression.
However, this is the case of false might that weak individuals experience. As for Allah, He is both Almighty and Wise; He does not act arbitrarily nor does He elevate Himself above His knowledge of the needs and dependencies of others. He is a generous Almighty who does not conceal Himself from His creation nor withhold His blessings from His servants.
By reflecting on the various contexts in which might is paired with wisdom, we can grasp some dimensions that may be intended—though we do not assert this definitively. For instance, in the verse, 'And for men is a degree over them, and Allah is Almighty, Wise,' some may find this hierarchy difficult to accept. Allah concludes the verse with 'Almighty, Wise' to indicate that no objection can be made against Him, and that what He legislates is based on wisdom and benefit.
In Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah states, 'As for the thief, the male and the female, amputate their hands as a recompense for what they earned, as a deterrent from Allah, and Allah is Almighty, Wise.' Some may struggle with this decree and accuse Islam of violence. Allah knows that there are weak souls like ours, and thus, the pairing of 'Almighty, Wise' serves to reassure us that this decree is not arbitrary but rather filled with wisdom and noble objectives.
In response to the initial question, each verse can carry specific cognitive dimensions that differ from one another in the conjunction of might and wisdom.
As for its use in glorification, it may serve as a cognitive reminder that if you face adversity or are subjected to oppression, continuously reminding yourself that Allah is the Almighty who cannot be defeated will instill certainty that this creature is nothing and is under Allah's control. You will not weaken before them, knowing they are as weak as you, while Allah is the ultimate strength. Adding the name 'Wise' assures you that this oppressor has been allowed to act for a good purpose known only to Allah, thus your heart will remain at peace.
We are not here to justify oppression, but to indicate the wisdom behind the trials that befall believers and how to cope with them. Therefore, if you always remember that Allah is Almighty and Wise, nothing will be difficult for you, regardless of what happens. Conversely, no matter how successful or powerful you become, you will know that the absolute Almighty is Allah, who can humiliate you in an instant. Thus, you must think wisely and manage your psychological strengths based on this attribute to maintain honorable might, as the pitfalls of might can only be overcome by wisdom.
Ultimately, understanding the meanings of the Quran and the characteristics of the names and attributes can only be attained by the purified, while we are merely learners on the path to salvation.
And Allah knows best.