Surah al-Hashr (The Gathering ) 59 : 23

Explanatory Note

"He is Allah, other than whom there is no deity" This is repeated at the beginning of the second part of this expansive glorification of God, because it provides the basis for all divine attributes.

"The Sovereign."  This attribute imprints on our hearts the truth that there is no sovereignty or dominion to anyone other than God who has no partners. When there is one sovereign, those who are subject to that sovereignty will have only one master to serve. No one can serve two masters at the same time: 

"The Pure" This attribute radiates absolute holiness and purity It strikes our hearts with purity, keeps them cleansed, suited to receive the grace of the Holy Sovereign, and all to extol His limitless glory.

"The bestower of Faith." The very pronunciation of this attribute, al-MuMin, gives a believer a clear sense of the value of faith. Here, a believer meets with God and draws on one of His attributes, rising by virtue of his faith to join the community on high.

"The overseer." This begins a new set of attributes that contribute to our concept of Him. The previous attributes related to Him only. These new ones relate to His action as He conducts life, the universe and all affairs. These attributes imply His absolute control and watchfulness.

The same applies to the other three attributes stated in this verse,  "The Exalted in Might, the Compeller, the Superior." They all emphasize power, authority and superiority. None is more powerful or has greater authority than Him, just as no one can be in any way superior to Him. These attributes belong to God alone; none share them with Him in any way. Hence the verse ends with the statement: "Exalted is Allah above whatever they associate with Him."