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The meaning of Allaah’s name al-Waasi’

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Publication : 13-09-2000

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Question

What is the meaning of Allaah’s name al-Waasi’ (the All-Sufficient for His creatures’ needs; the All-Embracing)?

Answer

Praise be to Allah.

Allaah encompasses all of His creation with His care, blessings, generosity and kindness. Allaah is the Self-Sufficient Whose provision is sufficient for all of His creatures. There is no one who does not eat from His provision; no one is able to eat from anything other than His provision. His Mercy encompasses all things and He fulfils every need. He is the One Who gives much; He has sufficient means to respond to the requests of all, and He encompasses all things as He says (interpretation of the meaning):

“all things He comprehends in His knowledge”

[Ta-Ha 20:98 – Yusuf ‘Ali’s translation of the meaning]

 Al-Waasi’ may include meanings that are not implied by the name al-Ghaniy. It is said (in Arabic), Waasi’ al-Fadl and Waasi’ al-Rahmah, meaning that His mercy encompasses all things and His knowledge encompasses all things. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“ ‘Our Lord! You comprehend all things in mercy and knowledge’”

[Ghaafir 40:7]

 This name implies that nothing is beyond Him, nothing is hidden from Him, His knowledge and power are vast, may He be glorified.

 Allaah is the One Whose attributes are immense, as is all that is connected to them. No one can praise Him sufficiently; He is as He has praised Himself. His might, power and dominion are vast, and He is Great in bounty and goodness, and Most Generous.

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Source:  Sharh Asmaa’ Allaah ta’aala al-Husnaa by Dr. Hissah al-Sagheer, p. 268