The Attributes of Allah: A Classical Sunni Perspective

The Difference Between Essential and Active Attributes

Islamic theology teaches that Allah possesses unique and perfect attributes that define His essence and actions. These attributes distinguish the Creator from His creation, ensuring that nothing in existence shares in His divine nature.

Muslim scholars categorize Allah’s attributes into two main types: Essential Attributes (Sifat al-Dhat) and Active Attributes (Sifat al-Fi'l). Essential attributes describe His inherent qualities, while active attributes relate to His divine actions.

Among Allah’s essential attributes are existence (wujud), oneness (wahdaniyyah), eternity (qidam), and everlastingness (baqa). These attributes emphasize that Allah has always existed and will never cease to exist.

Allah’s knowledge (‘ilm) is absolute and encompasses all things—past, present, and future. Nothing escapes His awareness, and He is never surprised or unaware of anything in creation.

His power (qudrah) extends over all creation. Every movement in the universe, from the smallest atom to the grandest galaxies, occurs only by His will.

Allah’s speech (kalam) is not like human speech; it is eternal, uncreated, and without sound or letters. The Qur'an is considered His speech, revealed to guide humanity.

Among Allah’s active attributes are creating (khaliq), sustaining (raziq), guiding (hadi), and forgiving (ghaffar). These demonstrate His ongoing involvement in the universe.

Allah’s mercy (rahmah) is one of His greatest attributes. He is more merciful to His servants than a mother to her child, and His mercy extends to all of creation.

Though Allah is described in various ways in the Qur’an, He is beyond human comprehension. His attributes do not resemble those of His creation in any way, as stated: 'There is nothing like Him, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing.' (Quran 42:11)

Believing in Allah’s attributes strengthens a Muslim’s faith and deepens their connection with Him. Recognizing His power, mercy, and knowledge brings peace and reassurance in life’s journey.