القدوس
Al-Quddus
Meaning & Definition
“Al-Quddus – The Most Sacred, The Pure, The Holy.”
Linguistic Root Analysis
“Al-Quddus” comes from the root ق-د-س (Q-D-S), meaning purity or holiness. This root implies being free from any imperfection, impurity, or defect. When applied to Allah, it signifies His absolute perfection and transcendence above all creation.
Qur’anic References
سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَرْشِ عَمَّا يَصِفُونَ
“Glorified is Allah, the Lord of the Throne, above what they describe.” (Qur’an 21:22)
هُوَ اللَّهُ الَّذِي لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْمَلِكُ الْقُدُّوسُ السَّلَامُ
“He is Allah, besides whom there is no deity, the Sovereign, the Pure, the Perfection.” (Qur’an 59:23)
Hadith References
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) would say in his dua:
سُبُّوحٌ قُدُّوسٌ رَبُّ الْمَلَائِكَةِ وَالرُّوحِ
“Subbuhun Quddusun Rabbul-malaa’ikati war-Rooh”
“Glory and Holiness belong to the Lord of the angels and the Spirit.” (Muslim)
Theological Insights
Ibn Kathir explains that “Al-Quddus” means Allah is free from any imperfection and has the most perfect attributes. Al-Ghazali states this name emphasizes Allah’s complete separation from anything created, and His absolute purity from any association with partners or deficiencies.
Practical Reflections
- Strive for purity in both outward actions and inward intentions
- Regularly purify your heart through dhikr and seeking forgiveness
- Recognize that all perfection belongs to Allah alone
- When facing difficulties, remember Allah’s absolute perfection and wisdom
Share this reflection with others to spread the knowledge of Allah’s beautiful names!