Ma’arij Al-Qubool bi-Sharh Sulam Al-Wusool ila ‘Ilm Al-Usool
by Sheikh Hafidh ibn Ahmad Al-Hakami (d. 1377H)
Part 11
The Proof of Allah’s Lordship (Ithbaat Dhaat ar-Rabb Jalla wa ‘Alaa – إثبات ذات الرب جل وعلا)
- The self-evidence of creation: How the existence of created beings inherently points to the Creator (Al-Khaliq – الخالق).
- Rejection of seeking external proofs: The sufficiency of internal signs and the inherent knowledge in human nature (Fitrah – فطرة).
The Arrogance of Denial
- Psychological roots of disbelief: Arrogance (Kibr – كبر) as the primary cause for rejecting Allah’s signs.
- Qur’anic evidence: Disbelievers’ behavior and their rejection despite clear signs.
The Debate in Surah Ibrahim (14:9-10)
- “Is there any doubt about Allah?”: Analysis of the rhetorical question posed by messengers to their people.
- Two meanings:
a. Doubt in Allah’s existence.
b. Doubt in Allah’s exclusive right to be worshipped (Uloohiyyah – ألوهية). - The role of Fitrah: How innate nature testifies to Allah’s existence.
Debate Between Ibrahim (عليه السلام) and Nimrod (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:258)
- The false claim of power: Nimrod’s argument and its rebuttal by Prophet Ibrahim.
- The sun as proof: The ultimate demonstration of Allah’s control over creation.
- Lessons in debating: The futility of arrogance against divine truth.
Debate Between Musa (عليه السلام) and Pharaoh (Surah Ash-Shu’ara 26)
- Pharaoh’s mockery: His denial of Allah and claim to divinity.
- The signs of Allah (Ayatullah – آيات الله): Evidence in the heavens, the earth, and within oneself.
- Pharaoh’s arrogance and eventual destruction: The consequences of rejecting Allah’s clear signs.
The Role of Fitrah in Recognizing Allah
- Protecting Fitrah: The importance of shielding one’s innate nature from corruption.
- Parenting and self-development: Methods to preserve and nurture Fitrah.
Lessons from the Prophetic Debates
- The Prophetic approach: Humility and focus on truth in engaging with opponents.
- The goal of debates (Munadharah – مناظرة): Clarifying the truth, not defeating the opponent.
- Insights from Imam Shafi’i: Sincerity in seeking the truth.
Conclusion
- Encouragement to reflect: The importance of pondering over the Qur’an and its evidences.
- Moving towards understanding Arabic: The value of learning directly from the Qur’anic language.
Key Takeaways
- Allah’s existence is self-evident: No external proofs are necessary for the sound heart.
- Arrogance leads to denial: Recognizing the psychological barriers to faith.
- Fitrah as guidance: The innate nature’s role in connecting to Allah.
Part 12
Line 26 of Sullam al-Wusool
- Explanation of: Ithbātu Dhāti al-Rabb Jalla wa ‘Alā, Asmā’ihi al-Ḥusnā, Ṣifātihi al-‘Ulā (إثبات ذات الرب جل وعلا أسمائه الحسنى صفاته العلى).
- Understanding Allah’s existence, beautiful names (al-Asmā’ al-Ḥusnā – الأسماء الحسنى), and perfect attributes (Ṣifāt al-‘Ulā – صفات العلى).
Proofs of Allah’s Existence and Lordship (Rubūbiyyah – ربوبية)
- Qur’anic references and statements from scholars (a’immah – أئمة).
- Imam Malik’s response to heretics, highlighting the diversity in human languages and sounds as signs of Allah.
- Imam Abu Hanifa’s analogy of the ship navigating without a captain, emphasizing divine orchestration.
Narratives from the Four Imams
- Imam Malik: Reflection on human differences as evidence of Allah.
- Imam Abu Hanifa: Logical analogies to refute atheistic arguments.
- Imam Shafi’i: Insights from natural phenomena like silk production and honey creation.
- Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal: The egg as an example of Allah’s creative power.
Principles of Islamic Knowledge
- Importance of sincerity (ikhlāṣ – إخلاص) and patience (ṣabr – صبر) in seeking knowledge.
- Emphasis on intellectual stamina (ṭūl nafas – طول نفس).
The Names of Allah (Asmā’ Allāh al-Ḥusnā – أسماء الله الحسنى)
- Introduction to Allah’s beautiful names.
- Qur’anic evidence, including verses from Surah Al-A’raf (7:180) and Surah Al-Hashr (59:24).
- Explanation of the hadith on 99 names: “Whoever comprehends them will enter Jannah.”
Theological Distinctions: Names vs. Attributes
- Clarification of Allah’s names (asmā’) and attributes (ṣifāt).
- Discussion on whether Allah’s names are limited to 99 or more.
Contemplation and Reflection on Signs (Āyāt – آيات)
- Reflection on natural phenomena (e.g., skies, oceans, and creation).
- Encouragement to reflect deeply on everyday miracles, like the egg and the universe.
Islamic Poetic and Literary Illustrations
- Examples from Islamic poetry and prose that celebrate Allah’s creation and attributes.
Practical Implications for Faith and Worship
- The necessity of integrating knowledge of Allah’s names and attributes into worship (‘ibādah – عبادة).
- Encouragement to use Allah’s names in du’a and daily life.
Part 13
Introduction to the Names and Attributes (Asma’ wa Sifat – أسماء الله وصفاته)
- Explanation of Allah’s names and attributes in the Quran and Sunnah.
- Importance of studying these aspects through an Islamic framework.
The Concept of the 99 Names (Asma’ Allah al-Husna – أسماء الله الحسنى)
- Clarification of the Hadith about Allah’s 99 names.
- Explanation that Allah’s names are not limited to 99.
The Comprehensive Knowledge of Allah’s Names
- Discussion on the exclusivity of Allah’s names and their scope beyond human comprehension.
- Evidence from the Hadith of Ibn Mas’ud.
Dua Using Allah’s Names (Asma’)
- Explanation of the famous dua:
“اللَّهُمَّ إني عبدُكَ ابنُ عبدِكَ ابنُ أَمَتِكَ…” - Its significance in seeking relief from grief and distress.
Attributes Paired with Opposites (Muqabil – مقابِل)
- Names that are always mentioned with their opposites, such as:
- Al-Mu’izz [المُعِزُّ] (The Honorer) and Al-Mudhill [المُذِلُّ] (The Humiliator).
- Al-Qabid [القابض] (The Withholder) and Al-Basit [الباسط] (The Extender).
- Importance of pairing to avoid misunderstanding.
Prohibited Extraction of Names from Actions
- Prohibition of deriving names like Al-Makir [المَاكِر] (The Schemer) or Al-Khadi’ [الخادع] (The Deceiver).
- Contextual understanding of such terms in the Quran and Sunnah.
Evidences from the Quran and Sunnah
- Specific examples of names and attributes with their evidences.
- How these affirm Allah’s perfection and justice.
Tawqeef: Adherence to Revelation
- Restriction to revelation in identifying Allah’s names.
- Importance of avoiding personal reasoning in naming Allah.
Attributes and Names: A Relationship of Necessity
- Explanation of how Allah’s names imply attributes and interrelate.
- Examples: Ar-Rahman [الرَّحْمٰن] (The Most Merciful) implies mercy.
Misguidance and Justice in Allah’s Actions
- Understanding Allah’s guidance and misguidance within His perfect justice.
- The Quranic explanation of Allah’s actions based on His wisdom and mercy.
Prohibition of Extracting Names from Attributes
- Clarification of why attributes like Al-Mutakallim [المتكلم] (The Speaker) are not names of Allah.
- Distinction between names and attributes.
Practical Lessons from Allah’s Names
- Application of Allah’s names in daily worship and dua.
- Using Allah’s names to deepen one’s understanding of tawheed.
Part 14
The Concept of Allah’s Names (Asma’ Allah – أسماء الله)
- Definition: The divine names of Allah are eternal and not created.
- Refutation of Deviant Beliefs: Addressing the claim that Allah’s names are a human invention.
Imam Al-Tabari’s Statement on the Misguided Philosophies
- Critique of Philosophical Errors: Analysis of foolish claims regarding Allah’s names.
- Role of the Scholars: Preservation of correct belief through scholarly refutation.
The Jahmiyyah and Their Deviant Claims
- Who Are the Jahmiyyah (الجهمية): Overview of the sect’s beliefs.
- Claim that the Quran and Names Are Created: Explanation and implications of this heresy.
- Impact of Their Beliefs: How these ideas influenced others and led to widespread confusion.
The Nature of Allah’s Names and Attributes
- Eternal and Inherent (أزلية): Allah’s names are eternal and have always existed.
- Unity Between Name and Attribute: Each name of Allah reflects a true and unique attribute.
Logical Refutations of Deviant Analogies
- Misguided Comparisons: Analysis of flawed analogies, such as the claim that names are human attributions.
- Clarification of Islamic Understanding: Names like Ar-Rahman (الرحمن) and Al-Khaliq (الخالق) are not comparable to human naming conventions.
The Quran’s Evidence of Allah’s Names
- Verses Affirming Allah’s Names: Discussion of Quranic evidence, such as Ar-Rahman Ar-Raheem in Surah Al-Fatiha.
- Contrast with Idol Names: Allah’s names are divinely revealed, unlike the invented names of idols (Surah An-Najm 53:23).
The Eternal Nature of Allah’s Attributes
- Pre-Creation Names: Allah was Al-Khaliq before creating and Ar-Razzaq before providing.
- Rejection of Temporal Attribution: Refutation of claims that attributes arise from events.
The Role of the Scholars in Defending Aqeedah
- Imam Al-Darimi’s Contributions: Scholarly works countering deviant claims.
- Importance of Knowledge: Preserving the purity of Islamic beliefs through correct understanding.
The 99 Names of Allah (Asma’ Al-Husna – أسماء الحسنى)
- Significance of Memorizing and Acting Upon Them: Understanding the Hadith on Asma’ Al-Husna.
- Next Discussion: Exploring the meaning of Man Ahsaha (من أحصاها) in the context of Allah’s names.
Part 15
Introduction: The Importance of Asma’ul Husna (أسماء الله الحسنى)
- Significance of knowing and comprehending the names of Allah.
- Essential nature of the topic for every Muslim’s faith and practice.
Hadith Explanation: “Whoever Enumerates the 99 Names of Allah Enters Jannah”
- Detailed analysis of the hadith and its variations.
- The meanings of “أحصاها” (Ahsaha): Memorization, comprehension, and acting upon.
Understanding the Concept of “Ahsaha” (أحصاها)
- Counting (العدّ): Knowing all 99 names without omission.
- Comprehension (الإحصاء): Understanding the meanings and implications of the names.
- Action (العمل): Applying the attributes in worship and daily life.
Rights of the Names of Allah
- Acting upon the names by fulfilling their implications.
- Examples of practical applications, such as trust in “Ar-Razzaq” (الرزاق).
Three Core Meanings of “Ahsaha”
- Memorization and usage in du’a.
- Capacity to act according to the names’ meanings.
- Comprehensive understanding and reflection.
The Role of Different Attributes in Worship
- Names related to mercy (e.g., “Ar-Rahman” [الرحمن]) inspiring compassion.
- Names of majesty (e.g., “Al-Jabbar” [الجبار]) necessitating humility.
Integrating the Names into Everyday Worship
- Practical guidance on invoking Allah’s names in du’a and dhikr.
- Reflection on the Qur’anic context of Allah’s names.
Examples of Names and Their Effects on Faith
- Al-Hakim (الحكيم): Trusting Allah’s wisdom in all decrees.
- Al-Quddus (القدوس): Recognizing Allah’s perfection and holiness.
- As-Sami’ (السميع) and Al-Basir (البصير): Mindfulness in speech and actions.
Comprehensive Knowledge of Allah’s Names
- Connection between knowing Allah’s names and developing tawheed (oneness of Allah).
- Ibn al-Qayyim’s insights on the transformative effects of this knowledge.
Practical Applications of Tawheed in Life
- Living as a true servant of Allah by internalizing His names.
- Reliance on Allah as the “Al-Ghaniyy” (الغني) and avoiding dependence on others.
The Comprehensive Name: Allah (الله)
- Centrality of the name “Allah” encompassing all attributes.
- Relationship between “Allah” and the other names.
Part 16
Definition of Ilhad (الإلحاد) in Asma’ Allah
- What it means to deviate in belief regarding Allah’s names and attributes (أسماء الله وصفاته).
- Root meanings of ilhad in the Arabic language and its broader implications.
Types of Ilhad (أقسام الإلحاد)
Detailed explanation of the three main types:
- Ilhad al-Mushrikeen (الإلحاد المشركين): Associating Allah’s names with idols.
- Ilhad al-Mushabbihah (الإلحاد المشبهة): Drawing parallels between Allah and His creation.
- Ilhad al-Nufaa (الإلحاد النفاة): Negating Allah’s attributes, further divided into:
- Those affirming Allah’s names but denying their meanings.
- Those outright denying Allah’s names and attributes.
Historical Context and Deviant Beliefs
Influence of groups like the Jahmiyyah and Mu’tazilah in deviating from orthodox Islamic beliefs about Allah’s names and attributes.
Guidance on Understanding Allah’s Names and Attributes
- Importance of adhering to Qur’anic and Sunnah-based descriptions.
- Ahl al-Sunnah’s stance: Affirmation without resemblance (إثبات بلا تشبيه) and belief without delving into the kayfiyyah (how).
Categories of Allah’s Attributes
- Sifat al-Dhat (صفات الذات): Attributes related to Allah’s essence (e.g., face, hands).
- Sifat al-Af’al (صفات الأفعال): Attributes related to Allah’s actions (e.g., His love, anger, and mercy).
Prohibition of Deriving Names from Attributes
Names of Allah (e.g., Al-Rahman) include attributes, but not all attributes result in new names.
Clarification of Misinterpretations
Refutation of deviant interpretations and ta’weel (distortions) regarding Allah’s love, pleasure, and anger.
Examples from Qur’an and Sunnah
Qur’anic verses and Prophetic narrations affirming Allah’s names and attributes.
Practical Memorization of Terms
Encouragement to memorize key Arabic terms (e.g., إثبات, صفات) for deeper understanding and engagement with Islamic texts.
Part 17
Understanding the Lordship of Allah (Rabbiyyah – ربوبية)
- Definition: Allah as the Rabb (Lord, Sustainer, and Master) of all creation.
- Importance of affirming Allah’s absolute sovereignty.
Evidences for Allah’s Rabbiyyah
- Qur’anic proofs of Allah’s Lordship over creation.
- Allah’s control over provision, guidance, honor, and disgrace (wa yu’izzu man yasha wa yudhillu man yasha).
Explanation of Allah’s Names and Attributes (Asma wa Sifat – أسماء وصفات)
- Detailed discussion of specific attributes, including:
- Al-Jaleel (الجليل): The Majestic One.
- Al-Khaliq (الخالق): The Creator.
- Al-Bari’ (البارئ): The Innovator.
- Al-Musawwir (المصور): The Fashioner.
Allah’s Comprehensive Creation
- Stages of human creation (خلق بعد خلق – khalq ba’da khalq).
- Distinction between Allah (الخالق – the Creator) and creation (المخلوق – makhluq).
Manifestations of Allah’s Sovereignty
- Allah’s control over natural phenomena (e.g., night and day, sun and moon).
- Divine decrees and human dependence on Allah’s will (كُنْ فَيَكُونُ – kun fayakun).
Reflection on Allah’s Perfect Design
- Unique creation of every individual by Allah’s will.
- Allah’s wisdom in trials and imperfections of this world.
Lessons from Allah’s Names
- Worshiping Allah through His names and attributes.
- The impact of belief in Tawheed (monotheism) on one’s heart and actions.
Conclusion
- Reflection on Allah’s greatness and sovereignty.
- Encouragement to purify the heart and remain in remembrance of Allah.
Part 18
Allah’s Name: Al-Bāriʾ (البارئ)
- Meaning and explanation: The Creator who brings all creation into existence from nothing.
- Connection to Surah Al-Bayyina and the term Bariyyah (بَرِيَّة).
Allah’s Names and Attributes in Context
- Exploring Al-Mubdiʾ (المبدئ) and Al-Muʿīd (المعيد): The Initiator and the Repeater of Creation.
- Emphasis on Allah’s creation without prior examples (Badiʿ – بديع).
Understanding Bidʿah (بدعة)
- Definition of innovation in religious matters.
- Connection to Allah’s unique act of creation.
Reflection on Allah’s Name: Al-Awwal (الأول)
- Meaning: The First, with nothing preceding Him.
- Effects on one’s worship and faith.
Reflection on Allah’s Name: Al-Akhir (الآخر)
- Meaning: The Last, with nothing beyond Him.
- Explanation of Allah’s eternal nature.
The Interplay Between Al-Awwal and Al-Akhir
- Allah’s encompassing time: Before and after all things.
- Practical implications on Tawheed and worship.
Reflection on Allah’s Name: Az-Zāhir (الظاهر)
- Meaning: The Most High and Manifest.
- Relationship to human understanding of physical and spiritual heights.
Reflection on Allah’s Name: Al-Bāṭin (الباطن)
- Meaning: The Most Near and Hidden.
- Understanding Allah’s closeness through His knowledge and power.
Qur’anic Evidence of Allah’s Names
- Key verses illustrating Al-Awwal, Al-Akhir, Az-Zahir, and Al-Batin.
- Examples from Surah Al-Hadid, Surah Hud, and others.
Hadith of the Prophet ﷺ
- Comprehensive explanation of the hadith on Allah’s names and their meanings.
- Practical application through supplications (e.g., before sleep).
Human Dependency on Allah
- Recognizing Allah’s attributes in personal actions and needs.
- The contrast between Allah’s permanence and human temporality.
Ibn Al-Qayyim’s Reflection on the Names
- Insights from “Tariq Al-Hijratayn” on the four names.
- The encompassing nature of Allah in time and space.
Worshiping Allah Through His Names
- Practical ways to internalize and reflect on Allah’s attributes in daily life.
- Witnessing Allah’s Al-Awwaliyya (Firstness) and Akhiriyya (Lastness).
Addressing Deviant Interpretations
- Responding to misinterpretations of Allah’s closeness to creation.
- The importance of adhering to the Quran and Sunnah.