Rules in the Names and Attributes: That the Names of Allah are Proper Nouns and Descriptions

The Shaykh : We must know important rules regarding the Names of Allah. First: The Names of Allah (Blessed and Exalted is He) are proper nouns and descriptions; proper nouns and descriptions. A proper noun is what identifies the named entity, and a description is a meaning that adds to the identification. For example, we call the lion *hizb* or *dhirgham*; these are proper nouns that identify their referent. We know that when we say *al-hizb* or *al-dhirgham*, it is the lion. But there are names that convey another meaning besides indicating the named entity. These are all the Names of Allah (Mighty and Majestic), for they are proper nouns and descriptions. They are not merely proper nouns, as the Mu'tazilah said, who deny their indication of the attributes of Allah. Rather, they are proper nouns and descriptions. Let me give you an example: *Al-'Alim* (The All-Knowing) is one of the Names of Allah. What is the description it contains? Knowledge. *Al-'Alim* is not just a name; it is a name and an attribute. Therefore, the Names of Allah are proper nouns and descriptions. The meaning of our saying they are proper nouns is that they point to the Essence of Allah (Mighty and Majestic). The meaning of our saying they are descriptions is that they carry a meaning indicated by the name. Faith is not complete unless you believe that they are proper nouns and descriptions. If you believe that *Al-Sami'* (The All-Hearing) is one of the Names of Allah only, without believing that it includes hearing, then you have not believed in it. You must believe in the name and in the attribute it indicates. Is that clear, everyone? *Al-Khaliq* (The Creator) indicates Allah and the attribute of creation. *Al-Razzaq* (The Provider) indicates Allah and the attribute of providing sustenance. *Al-Ghafur* (The Forgiver) indicates Allah and the attribute of forgiveness. And so on. They are proper nouns and descriptions. This is one point.