Meaning of Rabb
Bismillahir Rehman ir Raheem
General meaning of “Rabb”
The term “Rabb” (رَبّ) is one of the 99 Allah(سبحانه وتعالي)’s attributes, appearing numerous times in the Qur’an and Hadith.It has vast meanings that encompass Allah (سبحانه وتعالى)’s roles as Creator, Sustainer, Provider, and Master. The depth of the word reflects Allah (سبحانه وتعالى)’s comprehensive nurturing, ultimate authority, and close connection with His creation.
Core meaning of “Rabb”
The Arabic word “Rabb” originates from the root ر ب ب (r-b-b), which conveys the following meanings:
- Creator (خالق): Allah is the one who brings all things into existence from nothing.
- Sustainer (ربوبیت): He provides for the needs of His creation, ensuring their growth and survival.
- Cherisher and Nurturer (پرورش کرنے والا): Allah nurtures and guides His creation through every stage of existence.
- Master and Owner (مالک): Allah has ultimate authority and control over all that exists.
- Guide (ہدایت کرنے والا): Allah directs His creation toward their purpose and benefits while protecting them from harm.
The term “Rabb” in Islamic theology refers exclusively to Allah, emphasizing His role as the sole caretaker and sustainer of all creation.
Qur’anic Usage of “Rabb”
The Qur’an uses the term Rabb extensively to highlight different aspects of Allah’s attributes. Below are a few examples:
1. Lord of All Worlds
Allah’s role as the sustainer of the universe is mentioned in the opening verse of the Qur’an:
Arabic:
ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ ٱلْعَـٰلَمِينَ
Translation (English):
“All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.”
Translation (Urdu):
“تمام تعریفیں اللہ ہی کے لیے ہیں جو تمام جہانوں کا پروردگار ہے۔”
(Surah Al-Fatihah, 1:2)
This verse establishes Allah as the sustainer of all realms of existence, encompassing humans, animals, angels, jinn, and all other beings.
2. Master and Provider
إِنَّ رَبَّكُمُ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى خَلَقَ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ فِى سِتَّةِ أَيَّامٍ۬ ثُمَّ ٱسۡتَوَىٰ عَلَى ٱلۡعَرۡشِ
Translation
“Indeed, your Lord is Allah, who created the heavens and the earth in six days and then established Himself above the Throne.”
Translation (Urdu):
“بیشک تمہارا پروردگار اللہ ہے جس نے آسمانوں اور زمین کو چھ دن میں پیدا کیا، پھر عرش پر جلوہ فرما ہوا۔”
(Surah Al-A’raf, 7:54)
This verse highlights Allah’s mastery and His control over all creation.
3. Dua for Parents mentioning Rabb
The Qur’an emphasize kindness toward parents and includes supplications where the term Rabb is used in seeking mercy for them. One such powerful dua is:
رَبِّ ٱرۡحَمۡهُمَا كَمَا رَبَّيَانِى صَغِيرً۬ا
Translation
“My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was small.”
Translation (Urdu):
“اے میرے رب! ان پر رحم فرما جس طرح انہوں نے مجھے بچپن میں پالا تھا۔”
(Surah Al-Isra, 17:24)
This verse beautifully connects Allah’s nurturing role as Rabb with the nurturing role of parents, encouraging gratitude and prayers for them.
Hadith on word “Rabb”
The word Rabb is also mentioned in numerous hadith, illustrating its significance in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
1. Supplication for Guidance
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught this beautiful supplication:
Arabic:
رَبِّ ٱشۡرَحۡ لِى صَدۡرِى، وَيَسِّرۡ لِىٓ أَمۡرِى
Translation (English):
“My Lord, expand for me my chest [with assurance] and ease for me my task.”
Translation (Urdu):
“اے میرے رب! میرا سینہ کھول دے اور میرا کام آسان کر دے۔”
(Sahih Muslim, 2002)
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2. Allah as the Rabb of All Creation
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
Arabic:
إِنَّ اللَّهَ رَبِّي وَرَبُّكُمۡ فَٱعۡبُدُوهُ هَـٰذَا صِرَٰطٌ۬ مُّسۡتَقِيمٌ۬
Translation (English):
“Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. This is the straight path.”
Translation (Urdu):
“بیشک اللہ میرا رب ہے اور تمہارا رب ہے، تو اس کی عبادت کرو، یہی سیدھا راستہ ہے۔”
(Sahih Bukhari, 3252)
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Books Referencing Rabb
1. Tafsir Ibn Kathir: Provides detailed commentary on verses where the term “Rabb” is mentioned, focusing on Allah’s roles and attributes.
2. Riyadh as-Salihin: Contains chapters on supplications where believers refer to Allah as “Rabb” in their prayers.
3. Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim: Collections of hadith highlighting the practical usage of “Rabb” in the daily life of Muslims.
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Implications of Rabb
1. Dependence on Allah: Every creation relies entirely on Allah for its existence, sustenance, and guidance.
2. Recognition of Authority: Acknowledging Allah as Rabb necessitates submission to His will and laws.
3. Personal Connection: The term Rabb reflects a personal relationship between Allah and His creation, as He provides both material and spiritual guidance.
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Conclusion
The term Rabb is not merely a title; it embodies the essence of Allah’s relationship with His creation. It highlights His qualities as the ultimate Creator, Sustainer, Master, and Guide. By understanding and invoking Allah as Rabb, a believer strengthens their connection to their Creator and fulfills their purpose in life.
