Examining Ayat ul-Kursi from the Perspective of Asma ul Husna: As-Salam and As-Samad

Introduction

Ayat ul-Kursi (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:255), known as the Throne Verse, is one of the most powerful and revered verses in the Quran. It encapsulates the majesty, authority, and grandeur of Allah. Analyzing this verse through the lens of two of Allah’s beautiful names, As-Salam (The Source of Peace) and As-Samad (The Eternal, The Absolute), reveals profound insights into the nature of divine peace and absolute dependence on Allah.

Ayat ul-Kursi

*"Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great."*

As-Salam: The Source of Peace

Divine Protection and Security

The name As-Salam signifies Allah as the Source of Peace, the One who grants safety and security. Ayat ul-Kursi reflects this attribute by emphasizing Allah’s protective power. The verse assures believers that Allah’s vigilance is unceasing and absolute:

*"Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep."*

This part of the verse reassures us that Allah’s guardianship is flawless and uninterrupted, offering a profound sense of peace and security to the believers.

Sovereignty and Tranquility

Ayat ul-Kursi declares Allah’s unmatched sovereignty over the heavens and the earth:

*"To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth."*

Understanding Allah’s complete control over all existence brings a unique tranquility to the hearts of believers, knowing that their affairs are managed by As-Salam, the Source of Peace. This divine assurance calms fears and alleviates worries, allowing believers to live with inner peace and trust in Allah’s wisdom.

As-Samad: The Eternal, The Absolute

Dependence and Sustenance

The name As-Samad denotes Allah as the Eternal and Absolute, the One upon whom all creation depends. Ayat ul-Kursi beautifully illustrates this dependence:

*"Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence."*

This emphasizes that Allah is self-sufficient and the sustainer of all that exists. Recognizing Allah as As-Samad fosters a deep sense of reliance and trust in Him, knowing that all needs are met by the Eternal.

Infinite Knowledge and Power

Ayat ul-Kursi also highlights Allah’s infinite knowledge and power:

*"He knows what is before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills."*

This affirmation of Allah’s boundless knowledge and control reinforces His attribute as As-Samad, the one who is Absolute and complete in every aspect. Believers find solace in knowing that their lives are under the guidance and wisdom of the all-knowing and ever-present Allah.

Vastness and Preservation

The verse concludes with a depiction of Allah’s vastness and His effortless preservation of creation:

*"His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great."*

This portrayal underscores Allah’s omnipotence and the ease with which He sustains the universe, reflecting His attribute as As-Samad. The recognition of Allah’s limitless power and majesty enhances the believer’s faith and reliance on Him, acknowledging that He is the ultimate source of strength and support.

Conclusion

Examining Ayat ul-Kursi through the perspectives of As-Salam and As-Samad reveals the profound layers of meaning within this powerful verse. It emphasizes the divine peace and security provided by Allah, the Source of Peace, and underscores our complete dependence on Allah, the Eternal and Absolute. Reflecting on these attributes deepens our understanding of Allah’s nature and strengthens our spiritual connection, fostering a sense of peace, reliance, and trust in the Divine. Ayat ul-Kursi stands as a testament to the majestic and comprehensive nature of Allah’s attributes, guiding believers towards a more profound appreciation of His infinite wisdom and mercy.