Allah is the Arabic word for God. This is the same God that Jew’s and Christian’s believe in, based on the monotheistic versions of their faiths. In Islam, Allah is the one and only deity, the supreme being who created and sustains the universe. The concept of Allah in Islam is central to the religion’s belief system and encompasses several key attributes that define His nature.
Key Attributes of Allah
Tawhid (Oneness of God)
Allah is unique, without partner or equal, and the sole entity worthy of worship. This concept is encapsulated in the declaration of faith, the Shahada, which states: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.”
Creator and Sustainer
Allah is regarded as the creator of everything in the universe. He is omnipotent (all-powerful), omniscient (all-knowing), and omnipresent (present everywhere, though not physically). Everything that exists does so by His will and continues to exist through His sustenance.
Mercy and Compassion
These two attributes are among the most frequently mentioned in the Quran, highlighting Allah’s infinite mercy and compassion toward His creation. Every chapter of the Quran (except one) begins with the phrase “In the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful” (Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim).
Justice
Allah is also described as being perfectly just. He will judge all individuals based on their deeds in this life. The Quran emphasises that Allah’s justice is absolute, and He does not wrong anyone.
Transcendence and Immanence
While Allah is transcendent, meaning He is beyond human comprehension and not bound by physical laws, He is also immanent, meaning He is close to His creation. This duality underscores that Allah is both above the universe and actively involved in it.
Allah in Islamic Practice
Muslims express their devotion to Allah through various practices.
Prayer (Salah)
Muslims pray five times a day, always directing their prayers to Allah.
Zakat (Charity)
Giving charity is an act of worship intended to purify wealth by recognising that all provision comes from Allah.
Hajj (Pilgrimage)
The pilgrimage to Mecca is performed as an act of worship and submission to Allah.
In summary, Allah is the central figure in Islam, embodying the highest virtues of mercy, justice, and omnipotence. The entire Islamic faith revolves around worshiping and obeying Allah, as He is the ultimate source of all guidance and the purpose of life for Muslims.