The Concept of God in Islam – Who is Allah?
In Islam, the word Allah is the Arabic name for God Almighty, the same God worshipped by all prophets. The Arabic word “Allah” is not simply another name for God; it carries a specific and unique meaning that separates it from any general term for a deity. In Arabic, the common word for “a god” or “deity” is “ilāh” (إله). This word can refer to any being that people may worship or consider divine. However, when Arabic speakers refer to the one true God, the word changes completely. The name “Allah” (الله) comes from combining “al”, which means “the”, with “ilāh”, meaning “god.” When these two parts merge, the middle letters drop and the pronunciation becomes smoother, forming the word “Allah,” which literally means “THE God.” This form is exclusive—there is no plural, no gender, and no variation—because it refers only to the One True God who is absolutely unique. Arabic-speaking Jews and Christians also use the name “Allah” when referring to God, because it is the linguistic equivalent of saying “the one true God” in English. Thus, the word “Allah” is not just a title but the proper, definitive name of the only deity worthy of worship in Islamic belief.
Allah Is One, Great, and Almighty
Islam teaches that Allah is absolutely One—without partners, equals, or rivals. All greatness and power belong to Allah alone, and no created being shares Allah’s authority.
Allah Is the Lord, Creator, and Sustainer
Everything in existence—from the stars to the smallest living creature—was created by Allah. All creation depends on Allah for maintenance, provision, and continued existence.
Allah Is Above All Creation
Islam teaches that Allah is exalted above the entire universe. Allah is above the heavens in a way that suits Allah’s majesty, while still being close to every servant through knowledge, power, and mercy.
Allah Is Superior to Everything
Nothing matches Allah in perfection or greatness. Any beauty, strength, or power found in creation exists only because Allah granted it.
Allah Is Capable of All Things
Allah’s power has no limits. Whatever Allah wills comes into existence, and whatever Allah does not will cannot occur. Nothing is difficult for Allah.
Allah Is Ever-Living
Allah has eternal and perfect life. Allah was never created and will never cease to exist. All beings rely on Allah, while Allah relies on no one.
Allah Does Not Sleep or Eat
Allah is free from any needs. Sleep, rest, or nourishment are requirements of created beings, not of Allah, who is completely independent and perfect.
All Creation Needs Allah, and Allah Needs No One
Every being—human, animal, angel, or anything else—depends entirely on Allah. Allah, however, is fully independent and gains nothing from creation’s obedience or disobedience.
Allah Has No Partner, Parent, or Child
Islam teaches that Allah is unique and has no family relationships. Allah was not born, does not give birth, and does not share divinity with anyone.
No One Has Seen Allah in This World
Human eyes cannot see Allah in the life of this world. Islam teaches that seeing Allah will be a special honor for the righteous in the Hereafter.
Allah Knows the Past, Present, and Future
Allah’s knowledge includes everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen. Nothing is hidden from Allah—not even what is inside the heart.
There Is Nothing Like Allah
Allah is completely unique in every way. No part of creation resembles Allah in essence, attributes, or actions.
Allah’s Names Show Allah’s Perfect Attributes
Allah has many beautiful names, each reflecting a perfect attribute. For example, “The Most Merciful” shows that Allah’s mercy is limitless and unlike the mercy of any created being.
Allah’s Attributes Are Perfect and Free of Flaws
Every attribute of Allah—such as mercy, power, knowledge, justice, and wisdom—is perfect, complete, and free of any weakness or limitation.
