What are the attributes of Allah mentioned in Ayatul Kursi?

In a Nutshell:

Ayatul Kursi, a powerful verse from the Quran (Chapter 2, Verse 255), beautifully encapsulates Allah’s majesty and power. It describes Him as the Ever-Living, the Sustainer, the King, the All-Knowing, the All-Willing, the Most High and the Most Great. Understanding these attributes is essential for deepening our faith and appreciating Allah’s incomparable nature.

Introduction

Ayatul Kursi, literally meaning the Verse of the Throne, is a revered verse in the Quran (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255). Muslims worldwide hold it in high esteem, reciting it regularly for its spiritual significance and powerful message. This verse goes beyond mere recitation; it offers a profound contemplation of Allah’s awe-inspiring attributes.

Understanding Allah’s attributes is a cornerstone of Islamic belief. By delving into Ayatul Kursi, we gain a deeper appreciation of His majesty, power, knowledge and sovereignty. This paves the way for a more meaningful and fulfilling relationship with our Creator.

The term Ayatul Kursi translates to Verse of the Throne. While the verse doesn’t explicitly mention a throne, it describes Allah’s dominion and sovereignty, concepts often associated with a throne.

Ayatul Kursi appears towards the end of Surah Al-Baqarah, the second chapter of the Quran. This chapter lays out core Islamic principles, including belief in Allah, His messengers, angels, the Day of Judgement and divine decree. Ayatul Kursi serves as a powerful affirmation of Allah’s absolute power and sovereignty within this context.

The verse itself (Al-Baqarah 2:255) eloquently describes several of Allah’s attributes:

[Allahu la ilaha illa Huwa al-Hayyu al-Qayyum, al-Mulku, lahu al-mulku wa Huwa ala kulli shay’in Qadirun](Al-Baqarah 2:255)

Let’s break down the verse to understand the attributes mentioned:

• Allah La ilaha illa Huwa (Allah, there is no deity [worthy of worship] except Him): This establishes Allah’s absolute oneness and divinity.
• Al-Hayyu al-Qayyum (The Ever-Living, the Sustainer): These names indicate Allah’s eternal existence and His power to sustain all creation.
• Al-Malik (The King): This attribute signifies Allah’s complete dominion and sovereignty over everything.
• Lahu al-mulk (His is the dominion): This reinforces the concept of Allah’s absolute ownership and control.
• Wa Huwa ala kulli shay’in Qadirun (And He is over all things Able): This highlights Allah’s infinite power and ability to do whatever He wills.