الْعَلِيمُ
19. Al-'Alim
The Knower of All
Meaning of Al-'Alim
The One who has perfect knowledge of all things, seen and unseen, past, present, and future. His knowledge encompasses everything - from the movements of atoms to the feelings in hearts. Nothing is hidden from Him.
Benefits of Reciting Al-'Alim
- Instills a powerful sense of God-consciousness (Taqwa), knowing that He is aware of every single thought, word, and deed.
- Provides immense comfort in times of sadness or when one is misunderstood, because Al-'Alim knows the true state of your heart and your intentions.
- Reciting 'Ya 'Alim' is highly beneficial for anyone seeking knowledge, wisdom, and understanding in their studies or life.
Al-'Alim in the Quran
Mentioned 157 times in the Quran, including 'And Allah is knowing of all things' (2:282) and 'He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them' (2:255).
How to Make Dua with 'Ya 'Alim'
To make dua to Al-'Alim is to speak to the One who already knows your needs better than you do. It is a plea for beneficial knowledge and for guidance based on His perfect awareness of what is best for you.
When Seeking Knowledge or Studying
"'Ya 'Alim, teach me what is beneficial for me, benefit me with what you have taught me, and increase me in knowledge. Open my mind to understanding.'"
When You Feel Misjudged or Misunderstood
"'Ya 'Alim, You know the truth of my situation and the sincerity of my heart. Your knowledge is sufficient for me as a witness.'"
When Making a Difficult Decision (Istikhara)
"'Ya 'Alim, You know and I do not know. You have power and I do not. Please guide me to the decision that is best for me in this life and the next.'"
Frequently Asked Questions
They are very similar. Al-'Alim refers to His all-encompassing general knowledge of everything. Al-Khabir often implies a deeper knowledge of the hidden, subtle, and inner realities of things. Al-'Alim is about the 'what', and Al-Khabir is often about the 'how' and 'why' on a deeper level.
This is a common question. Allah's foreknowledge does not negate our free will. Think of a teacher who knows a student so well that she knows he will fail an exam if he doesn't study. Her knowledge doesn't force him to fail; his choice does. Allah's knowledge is infinitely more perfect, but He has still given us the ability to choose.
It is the foundation of 'Ihsan' (excellence in worship), which is 'to worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you cannot see Him, then know that He sees you.' This awareness prevents us from sinning in private and encourages sincerity in our good deeds, as we know the Knower of All is watching.
Quick Quiz
Question 1: Al-'Alim's knowledge covers:
Question 2: The concept of 'Ihsan' (worshipping Allah as if you see Him) is most directly related to which name?
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