A summary of the concepts held by the Ahl al-Sunnah.
The pairing of Allah’s name, the Almighty (al-Aziz), with His names, the All-Wise (al-Hakim) and the All-Merciful (al-Rahim).
The name al-Aziz is frequently paired with other names throughout the eighty-eight times it is mentioned.
Specifically, it is paired with two noble names: the All-Wise and the All-Merciful.
It is paired with the name al-Hakim forty-five or forty-six times.
This is only to dispel any misconception that Allah’s might involves any form of injustice or tyranny.
As is often the case with the might exercised by people on earth.
For His might, glory be to Him, is always accompanied by wisdom and justice.
An example of this is the might that necessitated the prescribed punishment for theft.
"As for the thief, male and female, cut off their hands as a recompense for what they have earned."
“As for the thief, both male and female, cut off their hands. It is the reward of their own deeds, an exemplary punishment from Allah. Allah is Mighty, Wise.” (5:38)
This is coupled with wisdom, as this punishment deters people from stealing.
The name al-Aziz is also paired with His name, al-Rahim, thirteen times.
Nine of these instances occur in Surah al-Shu'ara alone.
Where, following each story of the prophets and their people, Allah the Almighty says:
"Indeed, in that is a sign, yet most of them were not to be believers."
"And indeed, your Lord is the Almighty, the All-Merciful."
This pairing in these verses exists because the stories recount Allah’s destruction.
Of the disbelieving deniers from every nation.
And the salvation of the believers among them along with their prophets.
The conclusion indicates that Allah is Almighty toward the disbelievers and All-Merciful toward the believers.
Furthermore, this pairing refutes the misconception held by some that might is incompatible with mercy.
Allah, glory be to Him, refutes this regarding Himself.
He clarifies that He, the Almighty, is powerful and omnipotent.
Yet, at the same time, He is All-Merciful, Kind, and Generous.
A summary of the concepts held by the Ahl al-Sunnah.