In the Quran
The name Al-Shahid is referenced in the Quran in several contexts, highlighting Allah’s omniscience and His role as a witness over His creation. For instance:
- Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:117):
- “I did not say to them except what You commanded me – to worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord. And I was a witness over them as long as I was among them; but when You took me up, You were the Observer over them. And You are Witness over all things.”
Scholars’ Opinions on Its Meaning
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Al-Tabari explains that Al-Shahid refers to Allah’s attribute of being the ultimate witness, emphasizing His comprehensive knowledge of all events and actions.
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Ibn Kathir states that Allah is the One who witnesses all that happens in His creation, affirming His justice and the accountability of human actions.
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Al-Ghazali describes Al-Shahid as the One who sees and knows everything, including the hidden matters of the heart, affirming that His witness encompasses both the seen and the unseen.
Significance of the Name
The name Al-Shahid serves as a reminder of Allah’s complete awareness and justice, encouraging believers to act righteously and with sincerity, knowing that their actions are observed by Him. It underscores the importance of accountability in the hereafter, as every individual’s deeds are witnessed by Allah.