Meaning & Explanation
Ar-Rahman refers to the One whose mercy is vast and encompasses all of creation. This mercy is immediate and all-encompassing, extending to believers and non-believers alike in this world. It is one of the most frequently mentioned names in the Quran, appearing in the Basmalah before every surah.
Quran References
3 versesContext: The opening chapter recited in every prayer
الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ
“The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful”
Context: An entire surah named after this attribute
الرَّحْمَٰنُ عَلَّمَ الْقُرْآنَ
“The Most Gracious, taught the Quran”
Context: Ibrahim warning his father
إِنِّي أَخَافُ أَن يَمَسَّكَ عَذَابٌ مِّنَ الرَّحْمَٰنِ
“Indeed, I fear that a punishment from the Most Gracious will touch you”
Exemplifying Story
seerahThe Prophet's Mercy to the People of Ta'if
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim
When the Prophet ﷺ traveled to Ta'if seeking support after years of persecution in Makkah, the people rejected him cruelly. They sent their children and slaves to throw stones at him until his blessed feet bled. The Angel Jibreel came with the Angel of the Mountains, offering to crush the people between the two mountains. Despite his pain and suffering, the Prophet ﷺ refused, saying: "Rather, I hope that Allah will bring forth from their descendants people who will worship Allah alone." This exemplifies how the mercy of Ar-Rahman manifests - even in moments of deepest hurt, choosing mercy over revenge.
True mercy means hoping for guidance even for those who wrong us, reflecting Allah's mercy that encompasses all.
How to Live By This Name
- 1Show mercy and compassion to all living beings without discrimination
- 2Reflect on the countless mercies Allah bestows upon you daily
- 3Use this name in dua when seeking Allah's vast grace and blessings
- 4Be a source of mercy to others as Allah is merciful to you
Du'a: Ya Rahman, envelop me in Your mercy and guide me to Your pleasure.