Meaning & Explanation
Al-Wadud is the One who loves His righteous servants and is loved by them. His love is active - He shows love through His actions, blessings, and guidance. He places love in the hearts of His servants for one another and for Him.
Quran References
2 versesContext: Prophet Shu'ayb describing Allah
وَاسْتَغْفِرُوا رَبَّكُمْ ثُمَّ تُوبُوا إِلَيْهِ إِنَّ رَبِّي رَحِيمٌ وَدُودٌ
“And ask forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him. Indeed, my Lord is Merciful and Affectionate”
Context: Allah's love combined with forgiveness
وَهُوَ الْغَفُورُ الْوَدُودُ
“And He is the Forgiving, the Affectionate”
Exemplifying Story
hadithAllah Places Love for the Believers
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim
The Prophet ﷺ said: "When Allah loves a servant, He calls Jibreel and says: 'I love so-and-so, so love him.' Then Jibreel loves him and calls out to the inhabitants of the heavens: 'Allah loves so-and-so, so love him.' And the inhabitants of the heavens love him. Then acceptance is placed for him on earth." Al-Wadud's love cascades from the heavens to earth. When He loves someone, He makes them beloved to creation. The love others have for righteous people is actually a reflection of Al-Wadud's love.
Al-Wadud's love is the source of all true love. Seek His love through obedience, and He will make you beloved in the heavens and on earth.