The Profound Meaning and Impact of the Name “Allah”

This session marks the beginning of a series exploring the names and attributes of Allah, starting with the most central and comprehensive: the name “Allah.”

The name “Allah” is not just one name among many. It is a unique proper name, referring exclusively to the One who possesses ultimate perfection in every attribute. It signifies absolute oneness (Tawheed) — in His being, His names, His qualities, and His actions. Allah is the only one deserving of worship in the heavens and the earth.

Imam al-Qurtubi explained that the name “Allah” encompasses all other divine names. Each of Allah’s names points to a specific attribute — such as ar-Rahman (the Most Merciful) or al-Aleem (the All-Knowing) — but the name “Allah” includes all of these collectively. It is also the origin of the other names: we say Allah ar-Rahman, but we don’t say that ar-Rahman is a name of Allah. This unique quality makes it the foundation of faith.

The name “Allah” is deeply woven into the fabric of Muslim life. It is part of daily adhkar (remembrances): when eating, entering the home, dressing, or beginning any task, the believer remembers Allah. It is central in acts of worship, particularly prayer, which cannot begin without saying “Allahu Akbar.” Even supplications often start with “Allahumma,” invoking Allah directly.

But understanding this name goes beyond knowledge — it must transform the heart and life. Recognizing who Allah is leads to deep love. Believers are not compelled to love Allah; it is part of their fitrah (natural disposition). This love grows stronger when one reflects on His endless care, generosity, and mercy. The Prophet ﷺ said that true sweetness of faith is tasted when Allah and His Messenger become more beloved than anything else. This love also involves loving what Allah loves and rejecting what He dislikes — a core part of faith.

The Prophet ﷺ himself exemplified this love and reverence. A powerful example is when he spent the night in prayer, weeping until the ground beneath him was wet with tears. When asked why, he responded, “Should I not be a grateful servant?” His deep awareness of Allah’s greatness shaped every moment of his worship.

Learning Allah’s name also cultivates reliance (tawakkul) and a sense of constant need. The Prophet ﷺ taught his daughter Fatimah a supplication to say morning and evening: “O Ever-Living, O Sustainer, by Your mercy I seek help. Rectify all my affairs and do not leave me to myself even for the blink of an eye.” This highlights how completely dependent we are on Allah in every moment.

Finally, mentioning the name of Allah should never be mechanical. True believers are described in the Qur’an as those whose hearts tremble when Allah’s name is mentioned. To experience this, we must bring awareness to our worship and remembrance. When we say “Allahu Akbar” in prayer or “Alhamdulillah” after blessings, we should pause and reflect on His greatness and favors.

Knowing and living by the name “Allah” transforms remembrance into heartfelt devotion, strengthens faith, deepens love, and anchors us in reliance upon Him. It turns routine acts into powerful moments of connection with the Divine.

May Allah make this knowledge beneficial for all who seek to know Him better.

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Episode 2 of the series Names & Attributes of Allah can be seen here: https://youtu.be/jCdNdonFMmA and listened to on our streaming service: https://on.soundcloud.com/XHderrPtGQSWiCOA0C